(BPT) - Do you know whether your current Medicare plan covers any vision benefits? Most Medicare plans don't cover routine eye exams or glasses, but certain supplemental or Medicare Advantage plans do offer this crucial coverage. Knowing what's included in your Medicare coverage can help you save money, while also keeping your eyes healthy.

Here are tips to help you make the most of your Medicare plan when it comes to your eye health, and what you should know about reducing your vision-related expenses.

Check your eligibility: See if you're covered for an annual eye exam. Many Medicare Advantage plans include one routine exam per year, at no extra cost. Having an annual eye exam is important not just for corrective lenses, but to support your overall eye health. Contact your insurer to ask questions about your vision coverage.

Use your vision allowances before they expire: Some Medicare plans include a particular allowance for glasses or contacts that resets each calendar year. For this reason, it's important to use your allowance for corrective lenses before the end of the year to make the most of your benefits, or you could be leaving money on the table.

Choose an in-network provider: Making sure to stay within your network when you choose a provider for your next eye exam helps you avoid paying higher out-of-pocket costs. Check with your insurance provider to help you find an in-network provider near you, if you don't have one already.

Update your prescription: Even if you only need small changes to your glasses or contact lens prescription, updating your prescription each year may help improve your vision - and your safety, especially while you're driving.

Explore preventive screenings: Annual eye exams are important for identifying serious health conditions, such as glaucoma, cataracts or macular degeneration at an early stage, when they are more easily treatable. Especially as you age, it's more important than ever to have these vital screenings every year. Additionally, comprehensive eye exams can help identify potential signs of serious health conditions such as diabetes and hypertension, which may benefit from early detection and treatment.

Visit an eye doctor and save with VSP vision insurance: If you don't have vision coverage as part of your Medicare plan, you still have affordable options. For example, you can purchase a vision insurance plan at any time with VSP^® Individual Vision Plans, with no need to wait for a special open enrollment or waiting period. You can save over $350 annually with affordable VSP Individual Vision Plans that you can customize and buy on your own. You'll also receive 20% savings on additional glasses or sunglasses, including lens enhancements, from a VSP network doctor within 12 months of your last exam. VSP members also have access to over $3,000 in savings with Exclusive Member Extras.

Even if you do not wear corrective lenses, maintaining regular eye exams is an important part of your overall health and well-being. Take action now to ensure that your vision is protected. Visit VSPDirect.com to compare plans and find a vision plan that meets your needs.