Most dependents qualify for one eye exam a year with Tricare coverage.

By Rebecca Alwine

Tricare often seems like a never-ending puzzle. Military spouses struggle to figure out what is covered, which provider they can see, and what has changed since the last time they visited the doctor.

Vision coverage is a little easier to understand -- if you have Tricare Prime and no additional insurance.

What does Tricare cover for vision?

When it comes to eye coverage, Tricare vision benefits may cover exams or other services, depending on your age, your coverage and your beneficiary status.

As an active-duty family member, you get one routine eye exam each year. One well-child eye exam for those between the ages of 3 and 6 is covered every two years to screen for amblyopia (lazy eye) and strabismus (crossed eyes) at no cost. But that's pretty much it. If you need more exams or appointments, you may be able to get them after a referral from your primary care manager.

What about the FEDVIP vision coverage?

If you need more coverage, you might consider the Federal Employees Dental and Vision Insurance Program, or FEDVIP, vision coverage. It is available during open enrollment season, which runs from mid-November to mid-December, and requires an additional payment each month. You can view the available plans online and compare prices using an online tool.

The FEDVIP coverage has enrollment options that include paying for spouse (self), spouse and one child (self plus one), or family (spouse plus multiple children). Active-duty service members cannot use this program.

Costs vary depending on the plan. Monthly costs range from $6 to $15 for spouse and from $20 to $32 for spouse and multiple children. Make sure to view the additional features, as well as limitations for cost of glasses and contact lenses.