With the year coming to a close, now is the perfect time to ensure you get the most out of your vision insurance plan. Whether you need glasses, contacts, or just an eye exam, there are plenty of ways to use up every last dollar your vision insurance offers. So let's dive in and discover some of those options!

1. Get an Eye Exam

The most obvious way to use up your vision insurance benefits is to get an eye exam. Most plans cover at least one comprehensive eye exam every two years, and some even cover additional exams every year if needed. A thorough eye exam can help detect potential problems early on, allowing you to take the necessary steps toward prevention or treatment. Plus, it's always good to ensure that your eyesight is crystal clear!

2. Buy a New Pair of Glasses

If you already have glasses, but they are looking worse for wear, then why not treat yourself to a new pair? Most vision insurance plans will cover at least part of the cost of frames or lenses (or both). You can check with your insurance provider on how much coverage you have left, or we can try to submit a claim on your behalf. You can even upgrade to a premium designer frame and lenses for a fraction of the regular price when using your vision insurance!

3. Upgrade Your Contact Lenses

If you've been wearing glasses all these years and want something different, why not try contact lenses instead? On the other hand, if you're a seasoned contact lens wearer using 2-Week or Monthly disposable lenses, why not upgrade to clean 1-day lenses?

Most vision insurance plans will cover part (or all) of the cost of contact lenses. So if you've wanted to switch things up, this is what you need!

4. Try Photochromatic or Transition Lenses

Photochromatic lenses are terrific for anyone who wants to avoid the hassle of having multiple pairs of glasses for different lighting conditions. These lenses automatically adjust their tint depending on how bright it is outside, so there's no need for a separate pair of sunglasses! Photochromatic lenses are great for travelling or for people who spend a lot of time outdoors. So if you travel south for the winter, it might be worth looking into them.

Depending on your coverage limits, you can upgrade to photochromatic lenses and have them covered by your vision insurance plan.

5. Check out those sunglasses!

Regardless of the season, everyone should have a pair of prescription sunglasses. In the winter, it helps to cut the glare off the snow. While in the summer, it cuts the intensity of the light. Whether it's a classic aviator or something more modern, there's sure to be a pair that fits your style perfectly. We can make your prescription lenses in almost any style you want, including the new mirror finishes found on my non-prescription sunglasses.

Conclusion

When it comes time to use up your vision insurance benefits before the end of the year, plenty of options are available! Whether you get an eye exam or switch from glasses to contacts, something is bound to fit within your plan's coverage parameters. In addition, it helps maximize those hard-earned vision and insurance benefits before they expire.

Stop by the new Helio Optometry optical showroom on 149th Street and 95th Ave; no appointment is required. You can also book an eye exam online or call us to speak with one of our fantastic staff members.