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Does TRICARE cover eye exams and glasses?
Quick Answer
TRICARE covers medical eye care and exams for conditions/diseases. Routine vision exams and glasses require separate FEDVIP vision insurance.
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Detailed Answer
TRICARE vision coverage is limited:
What TRICARE Medical Covers
- Eye exams for medical conditions
- Treatment for eye diseases (glaucoma, cataracts)
- Eye injuries and infections
- Diabetes-related eye exams
- Eye surgery for medical conditions
- Contact lenses after cataract surgery
What's NOT Covered
- Routine eye exams
- Glasses or contact lenses (except post-cataract)
- LASIK or refractive surgery
- Eyeglass frames
- Sunglasses
FEDVIP Vision Insurance:
Separate Coverage Available
- Retired service members and families
- Active duty family members
- Reserve and Guard members
What FEDVIP Typically Covers
- Annual comprehensive eye exams
- Frames and lenses
- Contact lenses
- Allowances for glasses
- Discounts on LASIK
Enrollment
- Enroll at www.benefeds.com
- Open Season: November-December
- Monthly premiums vary by plan
- Multiple carrier options
Active Duty
- Eye exams at military facilities
- Prescription glasses through military system
- No cost for active duty members
Costs Without FEDVIP
- Pay out-of-pocket for routine care
- Civilian glasses and exams not covered
- Can use military optical if eligible
Special Cases:
Children
- Medical eye care covered
- Routine exams need FEDVIP
- Vision screening part of well-child visits
Contact Lenses
- Covered only after cataract surgery
- Cosmetic contacts not covered
- Therapeutic contacts may be covered
For routine vision care, consider purchasing FEDVIP vision insurance during Open Season.