Would I be able to get eye surgery done for free at the Army's expense after I get out, or is it only free while on active duty orders?

2020-08-06T17:09:24-04:00

I have about a year and 4 months left of active duty, and i’m 21. I wanted to get eye surgery but so many people have said wait until your eyes get really bad before doing so. Would I be able to get eye surgery done for free at the army expense when I’m out? or is it only free while on active duty orders?

Response by MSG Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 6 at 2020 5:25 PM

2020-08-06T17:25:15-04:00

The Army will not pay for an elective eye surgery when you are no longer IN the Army. If you want the eye surgery, contact your PCM and get a referral to be evaluated by the eye surgeon at your post. If you have one, that is.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 6 at 2020 5:55 PM

2020-08-06T17:55:27-04:00

You need to go to your hospital to see if it's even offered at your location and if you qualify first.

Response by SFC Kelly Fuerhoff made Aug 6 at 2020 6:39 PM

2020-08-06T18:39:49-04:00

As stated see your PCM about a referral. If it can't be done on your base, they'll have to send you elsewhere.

Are you talking about Lasik or corrective eye surgery? If they can't do it on your base, you'll get sent basically TDY to get it done elsewhere from my understanding. I've never had it done but did look into it at one point. I think the base I was at couldn't do it and I would have had to go Colorado or something. I think when I was at Riley? I can't remember.

It definitely won't be "free" when you get out of the Army. If you want it done, do it before you ETS.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 6 at 2020 8:01 PM

2020-08-06T20:01:39-04:00

I honestly cant believe this is a legit question... Why would you get an elective procedure for free when you get out?

Response by SGM Bill Frazer made Aug 7 at 2020 12:13 PM

2020-08-07T12:13:38-04:00

The service/VA will not normally cover elective procedures at anytime. Looking good is not a problem for the service- that's why you are issued BCG's while in. Hell even retires can't get much unless rated 100% disabled.

Response by Lt Col Jim Coe made Aug 7 at 2020 2:28 PM

2020-08-07T14:28:26-04:00

Don't go with advice from RP members or your "barracks buddies" about medical issues. See the appropriate Army medical professionals and follow their advice. Yes, if you need eye surgery while on Active Duty, the Army will make sure it's performed by a qualified military surgeon or pay for a downtown surgeon using TRICARE.

After you get out of the Army, the only way you'll get the surgery for free or minimal cost is to go through the VA. Not always an easy process.

If you need surgery you should get it while you're on active duty IMO.