How Much Does LASIK Cost With VSP
LASIK is an eye surgical operation that reshapes the cornea (the eyeball’s outer layer covering) to correct astigmatism or myopia, otherwise known as farsightedness. The process involves separating cornea’s surface layer to create a hinged flap, giving access for an excimer laser to remove different tissues that are found within the inner layer of the cornea. One of the most recommended LASIK providers is VSP Vision Care. Considered as such, how much does LASIK cost with VSP then?
The average cost of LASIK is $2,000. Meanwhile, the cost of LASIK with VSP ranges from $1,000 to $3,000 for one eye, depending on these three major factors: the needed level to correct the patient’s vision, the technology employed during the medical operation as well as the skills and experience of the surgeon.
Other factors that may be included in the total VSP LASIK coverage are the pre-operative care, post-op care and follow-up procedure just in case when the initial surgery requires adjustments.
Major Factors in LASIK Eye Surgery Cost
Required Level of Vision Correction. According to VSP, the costs become more expensive in cases when the patients are suffering from extremely poor eyesight. However, the total fees may increase or decrease based on what the prescription has indicated.
LASIK’s Laser Technology. The cost of LASIK with VSP can be influenced by the type of laser technology used during the medical operation. Most of the time, the latest methods such as the Custom LASIK are more expensive than the older version. In some instances, manufacturing companies of laser equipment charge surgeons with additional costs for the usage. However, the fees may be included in the patient’s medical bill.
Furthermore, the preference of the person can make the average cost of LASIK go up. Basically, it is the surgeon’s job to recommend which type of surgery best fits the client’s needs. But if the patient chooses something else, then the total costs would possibly increase and the results may also vary.
Before agreeing on the type of procedure to use, always make sure to seek for a price breakdown or the things included in the VSP LASIK coverage so that you will know where your money goes. You can start off by asking these questions:
– What are the things covered in the cost of my LASIK eye surgery? What are not included?
– What are the kinds of LASIK technology do you provide?
– Is this eye laser surgery quote for one eye or both of my eyes?
– How many post-operative care visits are covered by the suggested cost?
– Will there be an additional expense for the prescribed medications?
– If I need to wear temporary correctional eyewear like eyeglasses and contact lenses, how much will I be spending for them?
– Can I ask for a written, itemized spending?
– Do you give patient references? How about testimonials?
Surgeon’s Skills and Experiences. The surgery will never be possible without a surgeon, therefore, it’s reasonable to pay the professional accordingly. It goes the same with the LASIK eye operation. Although this may be included in the VSP LASIK coverage, the expenses are affected by the surgeon’s skills and experiences in the field. Typically, the doctors who have impressive reputations charge a bit higher due to the fact that they are already employing more advanced skills during the medical operation.
4 Financial Ways to Cover the LASIK Eye Surgery
Now that we know the rough cost of LASIK with VSP, how much does LASIK cost with VSP if health insurance is already applied?
Presuming that your eye doctor has already confirmed that you can undergo the LASIK eye surgery, the next basic thing to think about is the money in order for the operation to proceed. Yes, the medical costs are too high especially when you barely have enough. But according to VSP, you can be able to shoulder the LASIK eye surgery through the following ways:
Health Insurance. Do you have health insurance plan that covers LASIK eye surgery? If you answered “yes,” then the average cost of LASIK will definitely go down since this operation is considered as necessary to repair eye problems. Apparently, there are many VSP members who are given the opportunity to take advantage of the Laser Vision Benefits.
Financing Options. Aside from VSP, there are a number of eye centers that offer LASIK operations that come with budget-friendly financing plans, ranging from six to 24 months and paying at least $60 every month. Although it sounds ideal, you may need to apply first and spend for a down payment, which comes with an income verification.
If you have chosen a laser vision facility without financing provisions, then you can either take advantage of applying for a credit plan from a LASIK financing firm or utilize a major credit card to help you shoulder the total cost of LASIK with VSP. And since it’s a money you borrowed, always make sure to pay on time so that no penalties will be incurred.
Tax-free FSA or HSA. Flex Spending Account or Health Savings Account can be of great help in reducing the expenditures spent on the VSP LASIK coverage if you are qualified through your company employer. This financing option lets you use the pre-tax income to cover for your medical costs.
In order to create a self-financing program without interest, you have to move a certain percentage of your monthly salary into an FSA or HSA. Using this option covers between 25 to 30 percent of the total eye surgery cost.
Discounts and Special Offers. If you really want to trim down your expenses for the LASIK eye surgery, then you should take advantage of referral discounts as well as special deals and promos. Oftentimes, medical institutions offering laser eye surgeries do advertisements and promotions to attract potential clients. Even VSP Vision Care has its own strategies to invite people in getting its services.