Insurance Information

At Shady Grove Ophthalmology, we want to make sure you understand how your eye care is covered. We only accept medical insurance for the diagnosis, treatment, and management of eye diseases and conditions.

Please note: we do not accept vision insurance plans. Learn more below about what this means for your visit.

What is Medical Insurance?

Medical insurance covers the diagnosis, treatment, and management of health-related issues, including medical conditions affecting your eyes.

If you have an eye disease, infection, injury, or need a surgical procedure like cataract surgery, your medical insurance typically applies.

Examples of services covered by medical insurance:

What is Vision Insurance?

Vision insurance is separate from medical insurance. It covers routine vision care, such as eye exams for glasses or contacts, and discounts toward eyewear. Vision insurance plans are preventive and maintenance-focused, helping with the cost of vision screenings and eyewear not the diagnosis or treatment of medical conditions.

Vision insurance is typically used at optometrist offices, where glasses and contact lenses are dispensed.

At Shady Grove Ophthalmology, we do not sell glasses or contact lenses. However, if you need a glasses prescription, we are happy to provide you with one for a nominal fee. You can then take your prescription to any optical store of your choice.

Please remember that vision insurance does not cover treatment for eye diseases, medical consultations, or surgical procedures.

Examples of services covered by vision insurance:

  • Glasses (frames and lenses)
  • Contact lens fittings and purchases

  • Vision correction screenings (not treatments)

Key Differences Between Medical and Vision Insurance

 

  Medical Insurance Vision Insurance
Purpose Treatment of eye diseases and injuries Routine vision care and eyewear
Covers Exams, tests, surgeries for medical issues Annual vision exams, glasses, contacts
Examples Cataract surgery, glaucoma management, eye infection treatment New glasses, contact lenses, vision screenings
Type of Visit Medical necessity Preventive maintenance

In short:

  • Medical insurance is used when you have a medical eye issue.

  • Vision insurance is used for routine vision exams and purchasing glasses or contacts.

 

Why We Accept Medical Insurance Only

Shady Grove Ophthalmology focuses on medical and surgical eye care, including diagnosing, managing, and treating diseases and conditions affecting your vision and eye health.

Because of this focus, we do not accept vision insurance plans that only cover routine eye exams or eyewear.

If you visit us for a medical concern, your medical insurance may cover your appointment and treatments.

Financing Options Available

At Shady Grove Ophthalmology, we understand that some treatments and procedures may not be fully covered by insurance, or you may prefer flexible payment options for elective services like LASIK.

To help make your care more affordable, we proudly offer financing options through:

Alphaeon Credit (Click to apply & learn more)

CareCredit  (Click to apply & learn more)

Alphaeon Patient Financing and CareCredit allow you to:

  • Spread the cost of your procedure over time

  • Choose from a range of flexible payment plans

  • Access special financing options based on your needs

Applying is quick and easy, and many patients receive an instant decision.

If you have any questions about financing options before your appointment, please contact our office  we’re here to help!

Questions About Your Insurance Coverage?

If you’re unsure whether your upcoming visit qualifies under medical insurance or if you have questions about your plan, please contact our office

Our team is happy to help you understand your coverage before your appointment.

Thank you for choosing Shady Grove Ophthalmology for your eye care needs!

Schedule an Evaluation Today!

Call our office at (301) 279-0600!