A reminder about Flexible Spending Accounts

Post date: Nov 15, 2011 1:57:1 AM

We've been seeing a lot of patients lately with questions about their Flexible Spending Accounts!

Most patients are trying to determine their LASIK or PRK candidacy before designating funds for their 2012 FSA. The vast majority of those patients are aiming to have surgery in the first quarter of 2012, so that's shaping up to be a busy time for us.

We're starting to see patients that are trying to use their left-over 2011 FSA funds before they lose them at the end of the year. If you have patients that fit into this category, let's try to get them in now! In order to get their procedure in before December 31, we have to check their candidacy, discontinue contact lenses, and treat any pre-existing conditions like dry eyes or blepharitis. It's best to get them going now!

Remember that FSA limits will be going into effect soon. 2012 will still allow a maximum of $5000 per employee, but the 2013 limit is $2500 and further caps will be determined by key economic indicators. Now is the time for your patient to utilize their fullest FSA benefits, allowing them to have a 10-35% cost savings when they use these pre-tax dollars. - jw