End-of-Year Vision Checklist: Are You Fully Using Your Benefits?

As the year comes to a close, many patients are surprised to learn that their vision benefits don’t roll over. If you haven’t used them yet, you could be leaving valuable eye care and savings behind. The end of the year is the perfect time to take a closer look at your vision benefits and make sure you’re getting everything you’re entitled to before they reset.
 

Schedule a Comprehensive Eye Exam

A comprehensive eye exam is the foundation of your vision care. Even if your eyesight feels fine, an annual exam can detect early signs of eye conditions such as glaucoma, macular degeneration, diabetic eye disease, and more.

Most vision insurance plans cover one comprehensive eye exam per year. If you haven’t scheduled yours yet, now is the time to use that benefit before it expires. Ending the year with an updated exam also ensures your eye health is monitored consistently year over year.
 

Update Your Prescription and Lenses

Vision changes can happen gradually, making them easy to overlook. If you’ve noticed headaches, eye strain, blurred vision, or difficulty focusing - especially with screens - your prescription may no longer be accurate.

End-of-year benefits can often be used toward updated lenses, including options like:

• Anti-reflective coatings

• Blue light filtering lenses

• Progressive or digital lenses

Updating your prescription now means you’ll start the new year with clear, comfortable vision.
 

Treat Yourself to New Frames or Prescription Sunglasses

Many vision plans include an annual allowance for frames. If you don’t use it, it typically disappears at the end of the year. This is a great opportunity to refresh your look with new eyeglasses or invest in prescription sunglasses. Prescription sunglasses not only improve vision outdoors but also protect your eyes from harmful UV rays year-round. Using your frame benefit before December 31 ensures you maximize both style and eye protection.
 

Stock Up on Contact Lenses for the New Year

If you wear contact lenses, your vision benefits may include an annual contact lens allowance. Even if you don’t need them immediately, ordering contacts before the end of the year allows you to use your benefits and be prepared for the months ahead. Stocking up now can also help avoid price increases and reduce the risk of running out unexpectedly in the new year.
 

Don’t Let Your Vision Benefits Go to Waste

Vision benefits are a valuable part of your healthcare, but they’re only useful if you take advantage of them. By scheduling a comprehensive eye exam, updating your prescription, selecting new eyewear, and stocking up on contact lenses, you can make the most of your benefits before they reset.

Contact Clear View Optometric to schedule your end-of-year eye exam and use your remaining vision benefits before they expire. Visit our office in Cloverdale or Ukiah, California, or call (707) 207-8500 to book an appointment today.