Optical Extras Cover Explained

If you have private health insurance, there’s a good chance your cover includes optical extras. Many people don’t realise their health funds include these extras, what they include, or that they expire each year.

In this article, we answer your questions about optical extras, so you don’t miss out on your unused eye care benefits.

What Does Optical Extras Cover Include?

Optical extras reduce expenses on vision-related services. Each health fund has different coverage but generally they cover routine eye care essentials, including prescription glasses and sunglasses, contact lensesand certain lens coatings.

How Can I Use My Optical Extras?

Depending on your individual plan and coverage, here are some of the ways you can use your optical extras:

Glasses

Many plans also cover a range of stylish frame options, allowing you to select frames that reflect your personality and style. You can choose from different frame styles tailored for reading, fashion, or outdoor adventures, or just invest in a spare pair.

Contact Lenses

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.

These lenses filter blue light emitted by digital devices, helping to improve sleep quality.

They’re also designed to reduce the symptoms of digital eye strain, including headaches and sore eyes.

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, 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.

How Long Do I Have To Use My Optical Extras?

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 making full use of your health fund benefits.

Extra Tips For Your Optical Extras

• 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.
• Consider using your extras to get multiple pairs of glasses suited for different activities; a dedicated pair for reading, another for work, and a pair for driving can improve comfort and convenience. 

How Do I Claim My Optical Extras?

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: Book an eye test with Optometrist Parramatta or get in touch to discuss eyewear options. 

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 that may be covered by your plan.

We use HICAPS to process claims instantly, so you’ll know exactly what’s covered before making any payment.

Our team can also guide you on how to check your balance, so you make the most of your optical extras throughout the year.

By making the most of your optical extras, you can avoid paying more “out of pocket” for eye care than you need to. 

To find out more or make use of your optical extras, book an appointment at Optometrist Parramatta today.