Did you know that January is Glaucoma Awareness Month? It's the perfect time to prioritize your eye health and learn about the valuable benefits available to you as a member of Suffolk AME. We want to highlight the Optical Benefit provided by the Suffolk County Municipal Employee's Benefit Fund (SCMEBF), which includes the option of Glaucoma testing for patients over 35.

The Optical Benefit covers a range of services provided by licensed optometrists, opticians, and physicians of your choice. The SCMEBF will reimburse up to $100 per eligible person (per calendar year) for specified optical services. The Centers agree to provide the following minimum services for the allowance:

► EYE EXAMINATION – Including glaucoma testing for patients over 35

‍► FRAMES – Any frame in the store with a retail value of up to $155

‍► LENSES – All ranges of prescription lenses to be of first quality impact resistant glass or plastic, standard or oversized.  Polycarbonate lenses are covered for children who have not reached 13.

‍► LENS TYPES – Single, Bifocal (including generic  invisible or blended), Multifocal, Progressive (Silor Super/Progressive Elegance or equivalent), Daily, Extended and Disposable Contacts. (Cosmetic tinting not included – $80 allowance only for disposable lenses).

‍► LENS TREATMENTS – Cosmetic and sun tinting, Scratch Resistance and UV Protection.

If you are using a participating optical center, an optical voucher must be obtained from the Fund prior to receiving optical services. Allow a minimum of 10 days prior to your appointment for receipt of your voucher from the Fund. Submit the original voucher directly to the provider of services if you utilize a participating optical center.

If you are using a provider of your choice, send your completed original voucher along with an itemized bill (and statement from health carrier if exam was provided by a physician) to the Fund. Photocopies (including faxes) of vouchers are not accepted by the Fund. Reimbursement will be made to you directly.

Remember, Glaucoma is a serious condition that can lead to vision loss if left untreated. By taking advantage of the Optical Benefit, you can ensure you receive regular eye examinations, including Glaucoma testing for those over 35, to detect any potential issues early on.

To get a full understanding of the benefit and its coverage, we invite you to visit the SCMEBF website at scmebf.org/benefits/optical. There, you will find detailed information about what the benefit includes, the allowable amounts for different services, the voucher request form, and how you can make use of your benefit!