Use It or Lose It: 5 Smart Ways to Use Your FSA for Eye Care

If you have unused flexible spending account (FSA) dollars sitting in your account, it’s time to put them to work to protect your eye health.

Vision-related expenses often qualify as eligible medical costs, and Cooper Optometry in Santa Monica, California, offers plenty of smart ways to make the most of your benefits before they expire at year’s end. Here are five, courtesy of Dr. Donna Cooper and Dr. Sarah Chung.

1. Get a comprehensive exam

A routine eye exam isn’t just for updating your glasses or contacts; it’s an essential check on your overall eye health. At Cooper Optometry, your comprehensive eye exam includes state-of-the-art testing with Optomap® retinal imaging to catch early signs of disease. 

Your FSA can cover this exam, helping you detect issues such as glaucoma, macular degeneration, or systemic health problems that may be visible in your eyes. Investing in this preventive care is a smart FSA move.

2. Replace or upgrade your eyewear

If you wear glasses, now's a great time to use your FSA on a new prescription or updated frames. We carry many popular frame brands, so use your benefits on high-quality eyewear that fits your style and vision needs. 

Whether you need a fresh pair for working at your computer (to help prevent computer vision syndrome) or want something more durable for daily wear, your FSA can help lighten the financial load.

3. Try contact lenses

If you wear glasses, consider switching things up with a contact lens fitting. Our contact lens options include multifocal and rigid gas-permeable lenses to correct astigmatism and presbyopia. 

Since these fittings often require a separate appointment, it’s a perfect way to use your FSA funds. Plus, once you’re fitted, you can spend FSA dollars on your supply of contacts and supplies throughout the year.

4. Get relief from chronic dry eye

Do your eyes constantly feel dry, gritty, and irritated? It could be more than a nuisance. It could be chronic dry eye, which we can treat. We offer dry eye therapy, from prescription drops to in-office treatments like punctal plugs. 

Using your FSA here can provide long-term relief without making a huge dent in your wallet.

5. Explore surgical or advanced care

If you're considering more permanent options, like LASIK or surgical vision correction, your FSA can help. Cooper Optometry offers evaluations to determine if you're a good candidate for LASIK, SMILE, PRK, or other refractive surgeries. 

Even if you’re not ready for surgery this year, you can use FSA funds on your pre-surgical consultations and testing and reserve the rest for post-op supplies and care.

Now’s the time

Your FSA can be a powerful tool for managing your eye health — but only if you use it. Whether it's your annual exam, contacts, dry eye treatment, or a surgical consult, those funds can go a long way. 

Don’t let your benefits expire. Book your appointment, spend your dollars, and keep your vision sharp. Call now to schedule an appointment or request one online today.