As December unfolds across Muswellbrook, many of us are starting to wind down the year, juggling holidays, end‑of-year work, and planning time off. Amid the festive rush, many private health insurance policies are approaching their annual reset date.
If you’ve got extras cover that includes optical (glasses, contact lenses, eye tests), now is the perfect time to visit Aaron Henry Optometry before your benefits vanish.
What “Use It or Lose It” Means
Extras cover under private health insurance often includes optical benefits, covering services such as eye tests, glasses, or contact lenses.
Most health funds reset their extras benefit limits on 1 January. That means any unused optical benefits at the end of December are generally lost and don’t carry over into the following year.
If you’ve been putting off updating your prescription, replacing your glasses, or getting contact lens fittings, now is a great time to act.
Aaron Henry Optometry: The Ideal Choice for Muswellbrook Residents
Conveniently located at 1/77 Bridge Street, Muswellbrook, Aaron Henry Optometry offers complete optical services and accepts a wide range of private health funds and Medicare. Whether you need:
- A comprehensive eye test
- New prescription glasses
- Contact lens fitting
- Sunglasses with UV protection
- A child’s eye test
The practice is well‑equipped to help you make the most of your remaining optical benefits before the year ends.
If you’re unsure what your health fund covers, the friendly team at Aaron Henry Optometry can help you confirm. Their goal is to help you understand your coverage and reduce out-of-pocket costs, making your year-end visit as seamless and cost-effective as possible.
What to Consider Before the 31 December Deadline
1. Check Your Extras Balance
Contact your private health fund or log in to your account to find out how much of your optical benefit remains. Knowing your available balance will help you plan whether to book an eye test, get new glasses, or fit contact lenses.
2. Don’t Wait Too Long
December tends to be a busy month. With many people trying to use their benefits before the reset, appointment slots can fill quickly. Booking early with Aaron Henry Optometry reduces the risk of missing out and ensures timely access to optical services.
3. Consider All Your Needs
Maybe your prescription hasn’t changed, but you’ve scratched your old glasses, or you’d like a second pair of sunglasses for summer. Extras cover might still apply, even if all you need is a simple frame update or lens replacement.
4. Plan for the Holidays
With the holiday season in full swing, it’s worth getting your eye care sorted before travel, summer sun exposure, or increased screen time (holiday planning, streaming, etc.). A timely eye test and correct eyewear can make all the difference.
How Aaron Henry Optometry Can Help
You don’t need to wait for symptoms to appear before booking. Here are a few ways you can use your private health fund’s optical cover before the year ends:
- Eye examination with an optometrist: A comprehensive exam assesses your vision, screens for eye conditions, and updates your prescription.
- Prescription glasses: Choose from a wide range of frames and lenses tailored to your budget and needs.
- Prescription sunglasses: Perfect for the Australian summer and eligible for many health fund benefits.
- Contact lenses: Whether you wear dailies or fortnightlies, now’s a smart time to stock up.
These services not only support your eye health but also ensure you’re getting full value from your private health cover.
Tips for Maximising Your Optical Benefits
Before the year wraps up, keep these tips in mind to get the most out of your cover:
- Use your health fund’s “extras search” tool online to double-check what’s included.
- Ask about bulk-billed eye tests; if you’re eligible, you may be able to claim under Medicare while using extras cover for new glasses.
- Consider multiple pairs—prescription sunglasses, reading glasses, or backup glasses can all be part of your claim.
- Bring your card—Aaron Henry Optometry offers HICAPS, allowing instant on-the-spot claims with most major funds.
A Muswellbrook Checklist for December
Here’s a quick checklist to help locals tick off their eye health needs before New Year’s Eve:
- Confirm your remaining optical balance with your fund.
- Book an appointment at Aaron Henry Optometry.
- Bring your private health card and Medicare card.
- Browse frames or order contact lenses.
- Pick up your glasses before the holiday period.
Start 2026 The Right Way
Ending the year with healthy vision is more than just practical; it helps set you and your family up for success in 2026. Whether it’s protecting your eyes from the harsh Aussie sun or making sure your child can see clearly for Term 1, December is the right time to prioritise your eye health.
And remember, Aaron Henry Optometry is a trusted part of the Muswellbrook community, helping locals of all ages with tailored, friendly care. If you’ve got questions, their team is more than happy to guide you through your options.