Use It or Lose It: Make the Most of Your Health Fund Optical Benefits Before Year-End

Panoptic Vision
2 days ago
2 min read

Your health fund optical benefits are about to expire! If you haven’t used your extras cover for the year, now’s the time to act. Most health funds reset on December 31st, and unused optical benefits don’t roll over, meaning you could lose hundreds of dollars in rebates you’ve already paid for.

Why You Need to Act Now on your Health Funds

Every year, thousands of Australians miss out simply because they forget to use their benefits in time. Health funds usually set an annual limit for optical extras, covering things like eye checks, glasses, prescription sunglasses, or contact lenses. Once the benefit period ends, any remaining allowance disappears.

And because appointment schedules fill up fast at this time of year, it’s smart to book your eye test early to ensure you don’t miss the deadline.

Book an appointment

Use It or Lose It: Maximise Your Optical Health Fund Benefits Before They Expire | Panoptic Vision

Here’s what’s typically covered under optical extras:

Prescription Glasses: Single vision, bifocal, multifocal, or progressive lenses.
Prescription Sunglasses: Combine UV protection with vision correction.
Contact Lenses: Including daily, monthly, or specialty lenses such as Ortho-K.
Lens Upgrades: Anti-glare, scratch-resistant, or blue-light filters.
Safety Glasses: Great for trades or lab environments.
Advanced Eye Tests: Some policies even cover OCT imaging or children’s vision assessments.

Don’t Miss Out on What You’ve Paid For

Unused extras are a missed opportunity to care for your eyes and your wallet.

Here’s why people lose their benefits and how you can avoid it:

Not realising what’s included – Many people think optical extras cover only glasses. In reality, they often include contacts, prescription sunnies, and lens upgrades.
Waiting until something breaks – You don’t need to wait! You can use your benefit for a spare pair, upgrade your style, or try blue-light lenses.
Overlooking the fine print – Each fund has different rules. Check whether you can claim across multiple items or family members.
Forgetting the reset deadline – Most reset on December 31st. Mark your calendar now!
Skipping routine eye exams – Regular check-ups catch early signs of eye disease and keep your prescription current.

Book an appointment

At Panoptic Vision, our team can help you understand your coverage and maximise your benefits. whether you need new glasses, contact lenses, or an eye health review.

Use It Before You Lose It

Don’t let your hard-earned health fund benefits go to waste.

Check your policy: Confirm your reset date and limits.
Book your appointment: End-of-year slots fill up quickly.
Refresh your eyewear: Treat yourself to new frames or lens upgrades before your benefits expire.