Visual health is essential for quality of life, but many people face financial difficulties in purchasing prescription glasses. Fortunately, the Unified Health System (SUS) offers assistance to those who need this resource.
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In this article, we will explain how this benefit works, who is entitled to it and how to request it.
Prescription Glasses through the SUS: A Right for Everyone
O SUS is responsible for providing free eye care and, in some cases, the delivery of prescription glasses. This service is especially aimed at people in situations of social vulnerability who do not have the financial means to buy lenses and frames, however, below I will explain more about this requirement.
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Although not all states and municipalities offer the benefit directly, several city halls maintain agreements with opticians and optical laboratories to ensure that the population has access to this support.
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Who is Eligible for Eyeglasses Allowance?
As previously stated, the SUS provides free glasses mainly for more vulnerable groups, such as:
- Low-income people registered in the Single Registry;
- School-age children and adolescents who have visual difficulties;
- Elderly people who need optical correction to improve their quality of life;
- People with chronic diseases that impact vision, such as diabetes.
If you fit any of these profiles, you may be eligible for the benefit.
Free Eye Exams by the SUS
Before getting glasses at SUS, it is essential to have an ophthalmologist consultation. The free service can be scheduled at a Basic Health Unit (UBS) and generally includes exams such as:
- Measurement of visual acuity;
- Refraction tests to define the degree of lenses;
- Assessment of eye health to identify diseases such as cataracts or glaucoma.
After the consultation, if glasses are needed, the doctor will issue a prescription that can be used to apply for the benefit.
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States and Cities that Offer Glasses through the SUS
The provision of free glasses by SUS is not uniform throughout the country. Some cities have their own programs, while others partner with popular opticians. In some cases, states and city halls offer subsidies or discounts on the purchase of lenses.
Therefore, it is important to check with the Health Department in your municipality to find out if this benefit is available and how to proceed to request it.
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How long does it take to receive glasses through the SUS?
The waiting time may vary depending on the demand in your region and the availability of partnerships with accredited opticians. On average, the delivery time for glasses can be 30 to 60 days after the order is approved.
If the municipality does not have an agreement to provide free glasses, the doctor can suggest alternatives, such as social programs or charitable institutions that help vulnerable people to acquire glasses.
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Step by Step Guide to Requesting Free Prescription Glasses
If you need prescription glasses, fit the requirements and want to know how to get this benefit for free, SUS, follow this step by step below:
1. Schedule an eye appointment
Go to the nearest Basic Health Unit (UBS) or health center and request an appointment with an ophthalmologist.
In some locations, you may need to present your Card. SUS and an identification document to make the appointment.
2. Get your eye exams
During your consultation, your specialist will perform the necessary tests to determine whether you need glasses. If the specialist diagnoses that you need optical correction, you will receive a prescription with the specifications of the lenses.
3. Request glasses through the SUS
With the prescription in hand and your number, NIS, contact your city's Health Department to see if there is an active program to provide free glasses. Some cities have opticians accredited by the SUS, where you can choose a frame and wait for the lenses to be produced.
4. Remove your glasses
If your order is approved, you will be notified of where and when to pick up your glasses. Delivery times may vary by region and program availability.
Finally, in addition to prescription glasses, SUS offers several other health benefits to the population, including exams, ophthalmological surgeries and treatments for eye diseases. To learn more about your rights and find out which benefits are available in your region, visit the official portal and check out detailed information about the programs SUS.
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