Children up to 7 years old will be covered for one pair of eyeglasses per year from 1 July 2023. Both the optical lenses and the frame are covered. The eligibility criteria require diagnosis with moderate to severe vision impairment (astigmatism or sphere component worse than +5D or −7D). Maximum waiting times are 30 days for visits to optometrists or ophthalmologists, and another 14 days for the delivery of the glasses.
This service was previously provided by the HPs’ voluntary health insurance. Now, the health plans will fund the service through National Health Insurance. Families are required to pay a co-payment (co-insurance) of 10%. This is capped at NIS 100 or less, depending on the level of visual impairment. Balance billing is also possible; patients can choose more expensive glasses than those covered by public funding and pay the difference.
The policy aims to improve financial access to care for lower-income families and reduce disparities.