Contact lenses are a popular alternative to glasses, offering more convenience and better vision correction for many people. However, if you’re interested in getting contact lenses, you need to start with a contact lens exam. But how much does a contact lens exam cost?
The short answer is that it depends. The cost of a contact lens exam can vary depending on several factors, such as your location, the type of exam you need, and your insurance coverage. In this article, we’ll take a comprehensive look at how much a contact lens exam typically costs and what factors can affect the price.
Types of Contact Lens Exams
Before we dive into the costs of a contact lens exam, it’s essential to understand the different types of exams available:
- Comprehensive Eye Exam
- Refraction Exam
- Contact Lens Fitting
Comprehensive Eye Exam
A comprehensive eye exam is a routine checkup of your eyes’ health and vision. During this exam, your optometrist will take a detailed look at your eyes, perform several tests, and screen for any potential issues. If you’re a new patient, your optometrist is likely to recommend a comprehensive eye exam before fitting you for contact lenses. The cost of a comprehensive eye exam with contact lens fitting can cost between $150-$250.
Refraction Exam
If you already have glasses or contacts and are coming in for a contact lens fitting, you may not need a comprehensive eye exam. Instead, you may opt for a refraction exam, which only tests your prescription. This exam is typically cheaper than a comprehensive eye exam, and its cost can range between $60-$120.
Contact Lens Fitting
A contact lens fitting is the process of selecting and fitting the right contact lenses for your eyes, which can be a complicated process. During this exam, your optometrist will measure the curvature of your eyes, evaluate the size of the pupil, and determine the proper strength and brand of a contact lens. The cost of a contact lens fitting can vary depending on the complexity of the fitting, and it can range from $60-$150.
Factors That Affect the Cost of Contact Lens Exams
The cost of a contact lens exam depends on several factors:
- Your location
- The type of exam you need
- Your insurance coverage
Your Location
The location of your optometrist can significantly impact the cost of a contact lens exam. In urban areas, the cost of a contact lens exam is typically higher than in rural areas. Additionally, some states have higher average exam fees than others. For example, a contact lens exam in New York City is approximately $60 more expensive than the national average.
The Type of Exam You Need
The type of exam you need will also impact the price. As we mentioned, a comprehensive eye exam with contact lens fitting will cost more than a refraction exam or a basic contact lens fitting.
Your Insurance Coverage
Your insurance coverage can significantly impact the cost of your contact lens exam. Some insurance plans cover a contact lens exam in full, while others require a co-pay or deductible. Several insurance plans do not cover contact lens exams at all, meaning you’ll need to pay the full price. Thus, it’s essential to check with your insurance provider to see what they cover before scheduling a contact lens exam.
Where to Get a Contact Lens Exam
You can get a contact lens exam from several providers, including:
- An Independent Optometrist
- A Chain Optical Store
- A Multi-doctor Eye Clinic
The cost of a contact lens exam can vary greatly depending on the provider, so it’s worth calling around to ask for prices before scheduling a visit.
Tips for Saving Money on a Contact Lens Exam
If you’re looking to save money on a contact lens exam, you can follow these tips:
- Check with your insurance provider to see if they cover the cost of a contact lens exam.
- Go to an independent optometrist rather than a chain store or multi-doctor clinic, as they tend to have lower costs.
- Look for deals or coupons on contact lens exams online.
Final Thoughts
Getting a contact lens exam is an essential first step to wearing contact lenses. However, the cost of a contact lens exam can vary based on several factors, so it’s vital to review your options and shop around. With the right research and preparation, you can get the contact lens exam you need without breaking the bank.
FAQs
Here are some of the most common questions about the cost of contact lens exams:
Q: Are contact lens exams more expensive than glasses exams?
A: Yes, contact lens exams are typically more expensive than glasses exams because they require additional tests and measurements to fit you with the right contact lenses.
Q: How frequently do I need a contact lens exam?
A: It’s recommended that you get a contact lens exam annually, or as your optometrist recommends.
Q: Does insurance typically cover the cost of a contact lens exam?
A: Some insurance plans cover the cost of a contact lens exam, while others require a co-pay or deductible. However, some insurance plans do not cover contact lens exams, so it’s essential to check with your provider.
Q: Is it possible to get a free contact lens exam?
A: It’s rare to find a free contact lens exam, but you may be able to find deals or coupons online to reduce the cost.
Q: Is the cost of a contact lens exam tax-deductible?
A: Yes, if you itemize your deductions, you can deduct the cost of a contact lens exam on your taxes.
Q: What’s the average cost of a contact lens exam?
A: The average cost of a contact lens exam is around $150-$250, depending on your location, the type of exam you need, and your insurance coverage.
References
1. https://www.allaboutvision.com/eye-exam/contact-lenses.htm
2. https://www.1800contacts.com/connect/articles/how-much-do-contact-lenses-cost/
3. https://www.snopes.com/fact-check/tax-write-off-contact-lens-exam/