Optical Extras Cover Explained

Have you ever wondered what optical extras cover is actually for? Did you know you might be missing out on eye care benefits included in your health insurance?

And most important of all – Are you aware that your optical extras might expire soon if you don’t use them?

Many people think optical extras only cover basic glasses, but they often include much more. Taking advantage of your optical extras cover is really quite simple, and hugely beneficial.

I’m Dr. Nick Papadopoulos, owner and lead optometrist at Optometrist Parramatta. In my 38 years of serving the Parramatta community, I’ve seen how crucial eye care can be and, unfortunately, how often optical benefits go unused simply due to lack of awareness.

I understand that navigating health insurance can feel overwhelming, so my goal is to help demystify the process, so your vision gets all the protection and help you deserve.

After reading this article why not maximize your benefits by reserving an appointment at our eye care clinic while slots are still available.

Need an Appointment?

What Does Optical Extras Cover Include?

Typically, optical extras reduce expenses on vision-related services. Each health fund has different coverage but generally they all cover routine eye care essentials. By understanding your plan, you can protect your vision and your finances at the same time!

Here’s a breakdown of how you can utilise your optical extras effectively.

Glasses

Coverage often includes prescription glasses, vital for daily tasks and overall comfort.
Many plans also cover a range of stylish frame options, allowing you to select frames that reflect your personality and style.
Depending on your lifestyle, you might benefit from having different frame styles tailored for various activities, such as reading, fashion, or outdoor adventures. This flexibility lets you match function with personal style.

Contact Lenses

Disposable lenses are great for convenience.
Multifocal lenses cater to those needing correction for both distance and reading.
Prescription coloured contact lenses allow for aesthetic variety, whether for special occasions or just to be adventurous!
Contact lenses are ideal for active lifestyles, offering freedom of movement without worrying about glasses slipping or breaking. They are especially useful for sports, social events, and other activities where wearing glasses might feel restrictive.

Prescription Sunglasses

Prescription sunglasses provide the dual benefit of corrected vision and UV protection; essential in Sydney’s sunny climate.
When choosing prescription sunglasses, consider polarised lenses to reduce glare from reflected surfaces.

Anti-Fatigue Lenses for Digital Screen Users

Computer glasses have become a popular choice for reducing digital eye strain, making them ideal for those who spend extensive time on screens, whether at work, school, or during leisure.
These lenses filter blue light emitted by digital devices, reducing eye strain and helping to improve sleep quality, especially when using screens in the evening.
They’re also designed to reduce the accommodative strain of constant near-work, making them a smart choice even for those who wouldn’t normally wear prescription lenses.

Lens Coatings

Anti-Reflective (AR) Coating – Reduces glare from lights, screens, and reflections, improving clarity and making lenses appear nearly invisible for clearer, more comfortable vision.
Hydrophobic Coating – Repels water, preventing droplets from sticking to lenses, which is especially useful in rainy conditions or humid environments.
Oleophobic (Anti-Grease) Coating – Resists fingerprints, smudges, and oils, keeping lenses clearer and making them easier to clean.
Anti-Scratch Coating – Adds a protective layer to prevent minor scratches, extending the lifespan of lenses and keeping them looking new.
Mirror Coating – Reflects light on the outer lens surface, reducing brightness and glare; often popular for sunglasses, adding both aesthetic appeal and enhanced outdoor eye protection.

Maximize Your Optical Extras Before They Expire

For many private health funds, optical extras reset on 31st December, meaning any unused benefits will not carry over into the new year. This deadline makes it essential to plan your eye care needs before the end of the year to avoid losing valuable coverage. By making a habit of reviewing your optical extras annually, you can ensure you’re using the benefits that are part of your health plan and not leaving savings on the table!

One way to maximise your extras is by taking advantage of “no gap” offers commonly available at optical stores. With “no gap” offers, you can select specific frames or lenses at no out-of-pocket cost, as the item’s full price is covered by your health fund’s extras. These offers usually include essentials like single vision lenses and a selection of frames, making it easy to pick up a pair of glasses without extra expenses. Many optometrists prominently display “no gap” options, so it’s worth asking about what’s covered.

If you’re thinking about more specialised needs, consider using your extras to get multiple pairs of glasses suited for different activities. For instance, having a dedicated pair for reading, another for work, and perhaps a pair for driving can improve comfort and convenience across different aspects of your day-to-day life. Additionally, a backup pair of glasses is always a smart choice, whether for travel, as a spare in the car, or at home for emergencies. Using your optical extras in this way ensures that you have the right eyewear for every occasion, while maximising the full value of your health plan’s benefits before they expire.

How to Claim Your Benefits

Confirm Your Coverage: Check with your health fund to confirm your optical extras balance and eligible items. You can often do this through your health fund’s website or app.
Book an Appointment: Schedule a visit at Optometrist Parramatta for an eye test or to discuss eyewear options. Appointments can be booked directly through our website or by calling the clinic.
Bring Your Health Fund Card: Bring your health insurance card with you to make an in-store claim at the time of your appointment. This will allow us to process your claim on the spot.
Choose Your Eyewear: Our team will help you select from a wide range of frames, lenses, and specialty options (e.g., prescription sunglasses, blue light lenses) that may be covered by your plan.
Process the Claim Instantly: Our clinic uses HICAPS, allowing us to claim your health fund benefits instantly, so you’ll know exactly what’s covered before making any payment.
Receive Your New Eyewear: Once your order is processed, you can collect your new eyewear at the clinic, or we’ll arrange for delivery if preferred.
Track Your Remaining Benefits: If you have further questions about remaining benefits, our team can guide you on how to check your balance, so you make the most of your optical extras throughout the year.

CONCLUSION

If you ignore your optical extras it could mean you are losing valuable benefits and paying more “out of pocket” for eye care than you need to. Furthermore, delaying an eye checkup could mean failing to detect early signs of eye conditions that lead to vision problems in the future.

Key Takeaways:

Diverse Vision Needs: Optical extras cover essentials like lenses, lens coatings, frames, contact lenses, and prescription sunglasses, letting you choose eyewear that fits your style and daily needs.
Use It Before Year-End: Most optical extras reset on 31st December each year. Taking advantage of “no gap” offers and multi-pair options helps you save money and reduce out-of-pocket eye care costs.

To make an appointment, give us a call at 02 9891 2020 or click the “Book Online” button on our website.

Dr Nick Papadopoulos – Owner and Optometrist

B.Optom (UNSW), CertOcTher (ACO) Therapeutically Endorsed Optometrist

Member of the Cornea & Contact Lens Society of Australia & the Orthokeratology Society of Oceania