Does the military pay for lasik?

Does the Military Pay for LASIK?

As a member of the military, you’re already aware of the sacrifices you’re making for your country. One of the most important things you can do for yourself is to take care of your health and wellness. This includes taking steps to correct vision problems. One of the most common procedures to correct vision problems is LASIK (Laser-Assisted In Situ Keratomileusis). But the question remains: does the military pay for LASIK?

The Short Answer: It’s Complicated

In short, the answer is no, the military does not pay for LASIK surgery. However, there are some exceptions and opportunities to get reimbursed for LASIK surgery. Before we dive into the details, let’s take a closer look at what LASIK is and how it works.

What is LASIK?

LASIK is a type of eye surgery that uses a laser to reshape the cornea, the clear dome-shaped surface at the front of the eye. This helps to correct vision problems such as nearsightedness (myopia), farsightedness (hyperopia), and astigmatism. The surgery involves creating a thin flap in the cornea, lifting it up, and then reshaping the underlying tissue using an excimer laser.

Military Eye Care and Vision Benefits

As a member of the military, you’re eligible for comprehensive eye care through the military’s Tricare system. Tricare is a health insurance program for military personnel, retirees, and their families. Through Tricare, you can receive routine eye exams, glasses, and contact lenses, as well as coverage for some eye surgeries. However, LASIK is not typically covered under Tricare.

Exceptions to the Rule

While LASIK is not typically covered by Tricare, there are some exceptions. Military personnel who are wounded or injured in combat or have a service-connected condition that affects their vision may be eligible for coverage. Additionally, some military bases and branches may offer LASIK coverage as part of their specific health benefits package.

How to Get Reimbursed for LASIK Surgery

If you’re a military member who’s paying out of pocket for LASIK surgery, there are a few ways you may be able to get reimbursed. Here are some options:

• Filing a claim with your insurance provider: You may be able to submit a claim to your Tricare insurance provider for some portion of the cost of your LASIK surgery. Be sure to check with your provider to see what they cover and what the requirements are for filing a claim.
• Applying for a military scholarship or grant: The Army Medical Department’s (AMEDD) Vision Care Fellowship offers scholarships to help military personnel pay for vision care, including LASIK surgery. The Optometry Student Scholarship Program also offers scholarships to students who are pursuing a degree in optometry and have a connection to the military.
• Using Veterans Administration benefits: If you’re a veteran, you may be eligible for Veterans Administration (VA) benefits, including coverage for vision care. The VA may cover some or all of the cost of LASIK surgery, depending on the specifics of your case.

Cost of LASIK Surgery

The cost of LASIK surgery can vary depending on the location, surgeon, and technology used. On average, the cost of LASIK surgery ranges from $1,500 to $3,000 per eye. While this may seem expensive, it’s important to keep in mind that LASIK surgery is a one-time procedure that can provide lifelong correction of vision problems.

Conclusion

In summary, the military does not typically pay for LASIK surgery. However, there are some exceptions and opportunities to get reimbursed for the cost of the surgery. If you’re a military member considering LASIK surgery, be sure to check with your insurance provider and explore other options to help cover the cost.

LASIK Surgery Cost vs. Tricare Coverage

Remember to always consult with your eye doctor and financial advisor to determine the best course of action for your specific situation.