Which health insurance company pays for laser eye treatment?

If you’re considering laser eye surgery, one of the first questions that comes up is: Will health insurance cover it or will I need to pay myself? In most countries, patients quickly discover that statutory insurance does not consider laser correction a medical necessity. Instead, it is usually viewed as an elective lifestyle treatment.

In this blog, we explain why coverage is rare, when exceptions may apply, and what alternatives exist. We also look at why many patients from Austria choose treatment in Bratislava as a cost-effective option—without compromising on quality.

Why statutory insurance usually does not pay

Most public health insurance systems treat glasses and contact lenses as sufficient vision aids. Because of this, laser eye surgery is not classified as medically necessary. It’s viewed as a private, self-paid procedure.

Common reasons insurers give:

• Glasses and contacts are considered an “adequate alternative”
• Laser correction is seen as improving comfort, not treating illness
• The procedure is classified as elective or cosmetic

This affects almost all statutory health insurance systems in German-speaking countries.

When coverage might be possible

Medical necessity is the only scenario where partial or full cost coverage may be considered but this is extremely rare.

Examples of potential exceptions:

• Severe contact lens intolerance (e.g., chronic infections or allergies)
• High dioptre values where glasses don’t correct vision adequately
• Intolerance or complications caused by glasses (e.g., after eye trauma)
• Corneal irregularities affecting daily function
• Strong asymmetry or anisometropia

Even in these cases, approval requires extensive documentation and is often denied. Patients must typically request prior authorisation and undergo multiple examinations.

What about private supplemental insurance?

Some private or supplemental insurance plans may cover part of the cost. Coverage varies widely and often depends on the tariff.

Possible scenarios:

• Partial reimbursement up to a fixed amount
• Cost sharing only for specific methods
• Coverage once per lifetime
• Requirement to pay upfront and request reimbursement

It is always necessary to check policy details in writing before assuming coverage.

Self-payment: the most common route

Because most people receive no insurance support, paying privately is the norm. In Austria, prices can be noticeably higher compared to neighbouring regions. This has led many patients to look at reputable clinics just across the border.

Why Bratislava is an attractive alternative

High-quality eye clinics in Bratislava offer the same advanced methods available in Austria, often at significantly lower cost. For many, the price difference is substantial, even with travel.

Key advantages for Austrian patients:

• Only about 45 minutes from Vienna
• German-speaking staff
• Modern technology and current laser methods
• Lower treatment costs than in Austria
• Transparent pricing
• No compromise on surgical quality

Patients appreciate that they can combine safety, expertise, and affordability without travelling long distances.

Why many choose VESELY Eye Clinic in Bratislava

Our clinic has treated thousands of patients from Austria who want excellent results at a fair price. We focus on refractive surgery and offer the latest laser methods like PRK, iLASIK, FemtoLASIK and SILK, as well as refractive lens exchange.

What patients value:

• German-speaking care team
• State-of-the-art technology
• Personalised treatment plans
• Transparent pricing
• Convenient access from Austria

Many patients tell us that even with travel, the total cost is still lower than in their home country.

Is travelling for treatment worth it?

Definitely for many patients.

Here’s why:

• You save significantly compared to average Austrian prices
• The quality, safety, and technology are equivalent or higher
• The location is close and easy to reach
• Consultations and follow-ups can often be planned efficiently

For anyone comparing self-pay prices, Bratislava offers an attractive balance between cost and quality.

Not sure which treatment suits your eyes?

Before choosing a clinic or method, it’s important to find out if you’re suitable. Age, corneal thickness, prescription, and eye health all play a role in determining the right procedure.

Take the first step

You don’t need an insurance approval to start. Begin by checking if you’re a candidate.

Take our free self-test, it only takes 2 minutes and gives you clarity on your options.