Optical Cover
Optical Cover is an optional benefit that can be added to some Medical Cover policies to help pay for eligible eye care expenses, such as prescription glasses, contact lenses and eye examinations.
Optical Cover is an optional benefit offered with some health insurance policies. It helps reduce the cost of maintaining your eye health by contributing towards eligible optical expenses that are typically not included under standard Medical Cover.
Depending on your insurer and the level of cover selected, Optical Cover may contribute towards the cost of prescription glasses, prescription sunglasses, contact lenses and routine eye examinations. Some policies also provide cover for repairs or replacement lenses, although the available benefits vary between insurers.
Within main Medical Covers, you can get treatment for eyes such as surgery if it is medically necessary - not cosmetic.
Most Optical Cover benefits operate with an annual benefit limit or a set amount that can be claimed over a specified period. For example, your policy may contribute up to a certain dollar amount each year towards eligible optical expenses. Some insurers may also have approved provider networks or specific claim requirements.
It's important to understand that Optical Cover is generally intended for routine vision care. Medical conditions affecting your eyes that require specialist treatment or surgery may instead fall under other Medical Cover benefits, depending on your policy.
Understanding the limits, waiting periods and eligible expenses will help you choose the level of Optical Cover that's right for your needs.
Why It Matters
Good vision plays an important role in your everyday life, from working and driving to studying and enjoying your hobbies. Optical Cover can help make regular eye care and prescription eyewear more affordable while encouraging routine eye health checks.
Common Misunderstandings
"Medical Cover automatically includes Optical Cover."
Not usually, you can be covered for surgery on your eyes that are medically necessary. Optical Cover is often an optional benefit that can be added to selected health insurance policies.
"I can claim for any sunglasses."
Generally, no. Most policies only contribute towards prescription sunglasses or other eligible prescription eyewear.
"There's no limit on what I can claim."
Most Optical Cover benefits have annual claim limits or maximum benefit amounts.
"Optical Cover includes eye surgery."
Not necessarily. Routine optical benefits are generally separate from cover for medically necessary eye procedures or surgery, which may be covered under other parts of your Medical Cover.
FAQs about Optical Cover
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Depending on the policy, it may contribute towards prescription glasses, prescription sunglasses, contact lenses and routine eye examinations.
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No. It's commonly offered as an optional benefit that can be added to selected health insurance policies.
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Yes. Most Optical Cover benefits have annual limits or maximum benefit amounts, which vary between insurers.
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Not usually as this can be seen as ‘cosmetic’. Most Optical Cover benefits focus on routine optical expenses rather than elective procedures such as laser eye surgery, although policies differ between insurers.
Looking after your eyesight is an important part of your overall health. If you're considering adding Optical Cover to your Medical Cover or would like to compare your options, talk to a New Vision Financial Services adviser. We'll help you understand the available benefits and find a health insurance solution that suits your lifestyle and budget.