Cork opens its eyes to PRSI benefits

Only 13 per cent of people in Munster know what their PRSI benefits cover, according to a recent Specsavers study.

The study, conducted by Empathy Research, highlighted peoples’ awareness of the PRSI opticial benefits that were introduced as part of the updated scheme in October 2017.

The survey showed that one in five are unaware of their own eligibility under the benefit.

The study also highlighted that although 92 per cent of Irish people said that their eyesight was their most valued sense, four in ten of those asked were yet to make a claim under their PRSI entitlement.

John Morrin, Store Director at Specsavers in Cork city and Mahon Point said: “We are committed to raising awareness of the PRSI optical benefits available to our customers as taking a proactive approach to eye health is extremely important and should form part of everyone’s overall health checks.”

Specsavers at Opera Lane and Mahon Point have tried to make the whole process as easy and stress free as they can for people by advising people instantly whether they are eligible or not.

Those eligible for the PRSI optical benefits will receive a free eyesight test as well as a voucher for a pair of glasses.

Along with the eyesight, hearing also falls under the PRSI medical benefits. People can claim half of the cost of a hearing aid (up to a maximum of €500 for a single hearing aid or up to €1,000 for a pair). People can also claim 50 per cent off repairs and replacement hearing aids too. However, of those that were surveyed, only 55 per cent were aware of these benefits.

Specsaver Audiologist, Rory Perry said: “Like all parts of our body, our ears are susceptible to ageing and deterioration, which is why it’s important to get regular hearing checks. In particular, those over the age of 55 should have their hearing tested every two years.

“Because of the slow progression of hearing loss, it frequently goes unnoticed and can take up to 10 years before the problem is identified.”