Understanding LASIK Eye Surgery
LASIK, short for Laser-Assisted in Situ Keratomileusis, is a specialized eye surgery designed to correct vision impairments. This advanced laser procedure is used to treat common refractive errors such as nearsightedness (myopia), farsightedness (hyperopia), and astigmatism. Due to the precision and intricacy involved, LASIK is considered a highly specialized surgical procedure.
Pre-Surgery Evaluation and Cost Considerations
Before undergoing LASIK, patients must go through a comprehensive evaluation, including a review of their medical history and current medications. This assessment helps the doctor determine whether the patient qualifies for the surgery. Once deemed eligible, the patient should be prepared for the financial aspect, either through personal savings or an appropriate health insurance plan that covers LASIK.
Health Insurance Plans Covering LASIK Surgery
Several health insurance providers in India offer coverage for LASIK surgery under specific conditions. Most insurers cover LASIK only if the refractive error is 7.5 dioptres or higher. Below is a list of some health insurance plans that include LASIK surgery coverage:
- Aditya Birla Activ Health Insurance Plan – Covered if refractive error is ≥7.5 dioptres
- Bajaj Allianz Health Infinity Insurance Plan – Covered if refractive error is ≥7.5 dioptres
- Care Health Insurance Plan – Covered if refractive error is ≥7.5 dioptres
- HDFC ERGO Optima Restore Plan – Covered if refractive error is ≥7.5 dioptres
- ICICI Lombard Health AdvantEdge Plan – Covered if refractive error is ≥7.5 dioptres
- SBI Arogya Premier Plan – Covered if refractive error is ≥7.5 dioptres
(Note: The above list is arranged alphabetically and does not indicate any ranking or endorsement. For a complete list of insurers in India, visit the IRDAI website at www.irdai.gov.in.)
How Basic Health Insurance Helps with LASIK Surgery
Medical expenses in India can be substantial, making health insurance an essential safeguard against financial strain. In addition to providing coverage for various treatments, many insurance policies now cover LASIK surgery under specified conditions. Some insurers also offer cashless hospitalization benefits, allowing direct settlement of bills even at non-network hospitals under the “Cashless Everywhere” initiative.
Previously, LASIK surgery was often excluded from health plans as it was considered a cosmetic procedure. However, the Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India (IRDAI) has mandated that LASIK should be covered under health insurance if the patient’s refractive error meets or exceeds 7.5 dioptres. To avoid any surprises, policyholders should review their insurance terms to confirm the extent of LASIK coverage before making a claim.
Conditions for LASIK Coverage Under Health Insurance
Health insurance policies typically cover LASIK surgery under the following circumstances:
- The refractive error is a result of an injury or accident.
- The surgery is required due to complications arising from a previous surgery.
- The patient has a refractive error of 7.5 dioptres or higher.
- The patient is unable to wear glasses due to a physical deformity or persistent discomfort.
- The patient cannot use contact lenses due to physical limitations or intolerance.
(Tip: Always check your insurance policy’s terms and conditions for clarity on LASIK surgery coverage parameters.)
Ideal Age for LASIK Surgery
The recommended age for LASIK surgery is between 18 and 40 years, as vision tends to stabilize within this period. Medical experts suggest waiting until your prescription has remained unchanged for at least one year before considering the procedure. However, individuals above 40 may still qualify for LASIK based on their overall health and visual needs. With evolving technology, eligibility criteria for LASIK surgery may continue to change in the future.