MedCost Insurance: What You Need to Know Before Your Eye Exam

Dr. Ryan Corte
4 days ago
4 min read

Are you interested in learning more about MedCost insurance?

Maybe you already have MedCost and are looking for an eye doctor in Charlotte or Asheville, NC.

If so, look no further, Reflect Vision Care proudly accepts MedCost insurance! We also accept a wide range of vision and medical insurance plans, making it easier than ever to get the comprehensive eye care you deserve.

Below, we’ve answered the most common questions our patients ask about MedCost and how it works for eye exams, glasses, and contact lenses.

What Is MedCost?

Founded in 1983, MedCost is a regional health insurance company based in North Carolina. It specializes in self-funded corporate health benefit plans and group insurance coverage. Unlike large national carriers, MedCost partners directly with employers to design customized benefit plans for their employees.

In many cases, MedCost provides vision benefits directly, but sometimes these are administered through Community Eye Care (CEC), another company that manages routine vision benefits like eye exams, glasses, and contacts.

That means if you have MedCost, your plan may include Community Eye Care as your vision network, and the great news is that Reflect Vision Care accepts both MedCost and Community Eye Care!

How to Find a MedCost Eye Doctor

If you live in North Carolina, South Carolina, or Virginia, finding an in-network MedCost provider is simple:

Visit the MedCost Provider Locator website.
Enter your location, provider name, or practice name.
Select “Vision Care” from the specialty list if applicable.

You’ll find local, independent optometrists like Reflect Vision Care, along with larger optical chains.

💡 Tip: Since MedCost often contracts out routine vision benefits to Community Eye Care, it’s a good idea to check both networks when searching for providers.

What If My Eye Doctor Isn’t In-Network?

You can still visit any provider you choose, even if they are out-of-network. However, you may need to pay upfront and then submit a reimbursement claim directly to MedCost.

Keep in mind:

In-network visits generally have lower out-of-pocket costs.
Out-of-network visits may result in higher deductibles or coinsurance amounts.

If you’re unsure whether your plan includes out-of-network benefits, it’s always best to check with your HR department or MedCost member services before your visit.

What Does MedCost Insurance Cover for Eye Care?

Coverage depends on whether your vision benefits are handled directly by MedCost or through Community Eye Care (CEC).

If Your Vision Benefits Are Through MedCost:

Comprehensive eye exams are often covered in full, especially when medically necessary or as part of your preventive health benefits.
Frames and lenses: MedCost typically does not include a separate allowance for glasses or contact lenses.
Contact lens evaluations and materials are usually not covered.

If Your Vision Benefits Are Through Community Eye Care (CEC):

You may have additional benefits such as:

A frame or contact lens allowance (often $150–$200)
Coverage for contact lens evaluations
Discounts on LASIK and PRK procedures through participating surgeons

Are Medically Necessary Contacts Covered?

If your MedCost vision benefits are administered directly through MedCost, medically necessary contacts (for conditions like dry eye or keratoconus) are not covered.

If your benefits are through Community Eye Care, coverage may vary, some plans include partial reimbursement for specialty contact lenses.

Does MedCost Insurance Cover Diabetic Eye Exams?

Yes. If your MedCost plan includes medical benefits and your deductible has been met, diabetic eye exams are covered in full.

These medical eye exams are crucial for detecting early signs of diabetic retinopathy, a leading cause of vision loss in adults.

Does MedCost Insurance Cover LASIK or PRK?

No, MedCost does not directly cover refractive surgeries such as LASIK or PRK. However, some Community Eye Care plans include discount programs through approved surgeons.

Additional Benefits Patients Should Know

Comprehensive coverage options: MedCost often covers medical eye visits for conditions like pink eye, allergies, dry eye, glaucoma, and cataracts.
Flexible care options: Members can choose from thousands of doctors across multiple states.
Preventive focus: Many MedCost plans include wellness incentives for annual checkups and preventive screenings—including eye exams.
Paperless convenience: Most providers, including Reflect Vision Care, file MedCost claims electronically for a seamless experience.

How Much Does MedCost Insurance Cost?

MedCost coverage is only available through employers who offer it as part of their group benefits. Because it’s not sold on the individual insurance market, costs vary depending on your employer’s plan design, co-pays, and deductibles.

If you’re unsure about your vision coverage details, contact your HR department or check your MedCost member portal for benefit specifics.

Why We Recommend Including Eye Exams in Your MedCost Health Plan

Even if you see well, annual eye exams are an important part of preventive care. Many eye and systemic health issues, like glaucoma, diabetes, or high blood pressure, can be detected early through a thorough eye health evaluation.

At Reflect Vision Care, we’re committed to making your experience as smooth as possible. Whether your coverage is through MedCost, Community Eye Care, or another plan, we’ll verify your benefits before your visit so you know exactly what to expect.

Schedule Your MedCost Eye Exam Today

Ready to experience comprehensive, compassionate care with the latest in digital eye exam technology?

Schedule your eye exam at one of our convenient locations:

📞 Call us or schedule online to book your appointment today!