The steps to getting the right contacts for you

If you think contact lenses might be a good fit, here are a few steps you’ll need to take to get the right match.

1. Book an eye test

Make an appointment with your optometrist, and chat to them about contact lenses. “Optometrists might focus on the various glasses options available to help you see better and might not include contact lenses as an option for vision correction,” says Bupa optometrist Karen Makin.

But it doesn’t mean you’re not suitable for them – in fact, most people who wear glasses can wear contacts so it’s good to discuss your options. 

2. Do a trial

Once you’ve sorted out the lenses your optometrist has recommended, you’ll try them out for a short period to see how they go, how to clean and care for them and generally if you like them or not. Bupa Optometrists offer a free trial (but there may be a consultation charge).

“Sometimes people might come back and say, ‘They feel great, but I feel my vision could be a little bit better’. So we might need to tweak that. Or they might say, ‘My vision’s great, but they’re not as comfortable as I hoped they might be’. And we might need to tweak that. It might be a change of lens material, lens design or brand of contact lenses.”

If you’ve decided that contacts are the way to go, you’ll be able to buy 3-12 months’ supply. But don’t get rid of those specs just yet - “We always recommend having glasses as well,” says Makin. 

Does Medicare cover contact lenses?

It’s not likely, but they may cover the consultation you have to get them.

“Medicare covers some contact lens consultations, but this is on a case-by-case basis and depends on the prescription,” says Makin. “It tends to cover higher prescriptions where the glasses are getting too thick and heavy.”

Your optometrist will be able to advise the costs involved once they have determined your prescription. This will help you make the right decision based on convenience, cost and your lifestyle.