Does the Military Pay for LASIK Eye Surgery?
The United States military has a long history of providing medical care to its personnel, including those who suffer from refractive errors such as nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism. LASIK (Laser-Assisted In Situ Keratomileusis) eye surgery is a popular procedure used to correct these vision problems. But does the military pay for LASIK eye surgery? The answer is yes, but with some caveats.
Eligibility
Not all military personnel are eligible for LASIK eye surgery. The military has specific guidelines for who can receive the procedure. According to the Military Health System (MHS), active-duty military personnel with a refractive error of -5.00 diopters or more in one eye, or -4.00 diopters or more in both eyes, may be eligible for LASIK. Additionally, military personnel with a history of eye trauma, eye disease, or eye surgery may not be eligible for LASIK.
How the Military Covers LASIK Eye Surgery
The military covers LASIK eye surgery for eligible personnel through the TRICARE program, which is the military’s health insurance plan. TRICARE covers LASIK eye surgery for active-duty personnel who have a refractive error that interferes with their military duties. This includes personnel who require glasses or contact lenses to perform their duties, as well as those who are required to wear glasses or contact lenses for a specific job.
What’s Covered and What’s Not
The military covers a significant portion of the cost of LASIK eye surgery, but there are some out-of-pocket expenses that personnel may need to pay. Here’s a breakdown of what’s covered and what’s not:
| What’s Covered | What’s Not Covered |
|---|---|
| Surgery procedure | Anesthesia fees |
| Doctor’s fees | Facility fees |
| Pre- and post-operative care | Medications |
| Follow-up appointments | Travel expenses |
Pre-Approval Requirements
Before undergoing LASIK eye surgery, military personnel must obtain pre-approval from their healthcare provider and the MHS. This includes a thorough evaluation of the individual’s eye health and a determination of whether the procedure is medically necessary.
Alternative Options
For military personnel who are not eligible for LASIK eye surgery or who choose not to undergo the procedure, there are alternative options available. PRK (Photorefractive Keratectomy) is another option for correcting refractive errors, although it may not be as effective as LASIK. Additionally, corneal rings, or Intacs, are a non-surgical option for correcting mild to moderate myopia.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the military does pay for LASIK eye surgery for eligible personnel, but there are specific guidelines and requirements that must be met. Military personnel who are eligible for the procedure can expect to pay some out-of-pocket expenses, but the majority of the cost is covered through TRICARE. If you’re a military personnel considering LASIK eye surgery, it’s essential to consult with your healthcare provider and the MHS to determine your eligibility and understand the coverage options available to you.
Additional Resources
- Military Health System (MHS): www.health.mil
- TRICARE: www.tricare.mil
- American Academy of Ophthalmology (AAO): www.aao.org
FAQs
- Q: Do I need to pay anything out-of-pocket for LASIK eye surgery?
A: Yes, some out-of-pocket expenses may be required, such as anesthesia fees and facility fees. - Q: How do I know if I’m eligible for LASIK eye surgery?
A: Check with your healthcare provider and the MHS to determine your eligibility based on your refractive error and medical history. - Q: Are there alternative options to LASIK eye surgery?
A: Yes, PRK and corneal rings are alternative options for correcting refractive errors.
