I have BlueCross insurance and lost my eyeglasses, can I get a new pair for free?

Question

I lost my eyeglasses about 2 weeks after receiving them, and I am 17 years old in case that matters.

Answer 1

We have BlueCross PPO and the only thing it covers is eye exam (not glasses).  We have separate coverage available at extra cost that covers eye exam and discount on glasses, but that might be another insurance company.

Answer 2

Your glasses are probably (sometimes they are but usually not) not covered under your Blue Cross Blue Shield. BCBS is a medical insurance provider not a vision insurance provider. Your vision is probably with a subsidiary or another carrier. I would call BCBS and see if they know who your vision benefits are through. If they do not know then check with the employer of the parent your insurance get your insurance from. Then call the vision carrier and they will tell you if they would cover another pair.

It is highly likely that it will NOT cover another pair, unfortunately.

You should also call the place where you got your glasses to see if when you bought them there was a warranty. Some, but not all, glasses suppliers have give a warranty with their glasses.

Answer 3

Glasses or anything else is only covered on the homeowners or renters insurance if it is over your deductible which is usually $500 but can vary.   I would not put in a claim for that.  There are other complications if you do.  

Answer 4

Blue Cross is a loose association of health care providers all over the country and policies vary greatly.  Find out what your policy covers.  I am pretty sure that the policy will only pay for the first pair (or a portion) but not the replacement pair.  The places that sell the eyewear also offer insurance against loss or breakage, and if you didn't buy it, you're probably out of luck.

Answer 5

Actually, you may want to contact your homeowner's insurance and see if the loss is covered under your parents  home owners or renters policy

( don't be surprised if it is excluded, but it doesn't hurt to ask). Otherwise, forget it. The health insurer isn't responsible to replace new glasses because you lost them.