It’s the most hectic time of the year - the calendar’s full, the kids are home, and everything’s moving at warp speed. But as the end of December approaches, there’s one more thing that deserves a spot on your family to-do list: using your vision insurance benefits before they expire.
At Exceptional Vision, we see it every year: families who didn’t realize their coverage resets on January 1, leaving hundreds of dollars in unused benefits on the table. If you haven’t scheduled your family’s annual eye exams or taken advantage of your eyewear allowance, now’s the time.
What Vision Insurance Typically Covers
Most vision plans, whether you’re with VSP, EyeMed, or have an FSA/HSA, include one comprehensive eye exam per year, plus a spending allowance for glasses or contact lenses. Depending on your provider, you may also be eligible for lens enhancements, blue-light filters, or even prescription sunglasses.
The kicker? These benefits don’t roll over. If you haven’t used them by the end of your plan year, they disappear, which means you’re essentially forfeiting money that’s already yours.
Even if your prescription hasn’t changed, it’s still worth coming in. For children, they’re especially critical; kids often won’t realize their vision is off unless it’s caught during a professional exam.
Eye Exams Aren’t Just About Vision
If you or a family member has a history of high blood pressure, diabetes, or other chronic conditions, skipping your annual eye exam isn’t just a missed opportunity; it’s a health risk. Many systemic health issues show early signs in the eyes, including retinal changes, blood vessel damage, or optic nerve irregularities.
Even if your vision seems fine, a comprehensive exam can detect warning signs before you experience any symptoms. This is especially important if your family has a history of vision loss, glaucoma, or other hereditary eye diseases.
Why December is a Good Time for the Whole Family
The holidays actually offer a few advantages for eye care. Kids are out of school, making it easier to schedule pediatric exams. Many adults have PTO days left, so it’s a good time to cross eye exams off the list without missing work.
Plus, if you’ve already hit your deductible for the year, medical benefits tied to your vision plan may cost less than you expect.
Shopping for Glasses? Now's the Best Time
December isn’t just crunch time for appointments; it’s also one of the smartest months to update your eyewear. Whether you’re looking for stylish frames, durable lenses for your kids, or prescription sunglasses to survive another South Florida winter (yes, the sun is still brutal), your vision benefits can help cover the cost.
At Exceptional Vision, we carry a wide range of designer brands and lens options, so your family doesn’t have to choose between fashion and function. And if you're using an FSA or HSA, we can help you apply those funds toward glasses, contact lenses, and even dry eye products, all before your account resets at the start of the new year.
How We Make It Easy at Exceptional Vision
We know how chaotic December can be. That’s why our team is committed to making things simple:
- Quick appointment scheduling for both adults and kids
- Insurance benefit checks to let you know exactly what’s covered
- Same-day eyewear selection with help from our expert opticians
- Friendly reminders so you don’t miss your benefits deadline
We serve patients from Palmetto Bay, Cutler Bay, Kendall, Pinecrest, and the greater South Miami area, and many of our families make eye care a December tradition. They come in together, knock out their appointments in one afternoon, and leave with fresh frames and peace of mind heading into the new year.
Book Before It’s Too Late
Most vision benefits expire on December 31. That gives you just a few weeks to use what you’ve paid for all year. Appointments fill up fast, especially in the last two weeks of the month, so don’t wait.
Our Palmetto Bay eye doctor is here to help your family see clearly, comfortably, and confidently.
Call us today or request your appointment online - your benefits (and your eyes) will thank you.