Vision Insurance is a policy that offers coverage or discounts on eye exams, glasses, contacts, eye procedures, and more. Almost 40% of Americans over 40 who are visually impaired do not routinely get eye exams because they either don’t think it’s necessary or do not have coverage. Vision insurance is a supplement to your regular health insurance policy that can help reduce the cost of regular eye exams which can add up year over year. It is an important benefit to consider if you have degenerative eye diseases in your family history or experience changes in your vision.
Where can I obtain Vision Insurance?
Vision Insurance is sometimes offered as an additional health benefit by an employer. If it’s not covered under your employee benefits package, you can get an individual policy through most plans. It is often covered on indemnity health insurance plans where policyholders can access medical providers of their choice. In addition, it is usually seen as an added benefit on most HMOs and PPOs that have partnerships with vision care provider networks to offer eye care services. The top five largest provider networks for Vision Insurance include: EyeMed Vision Care, VSP Vision Care, Davis Vision Inc., OptumHealth Vision and United Healthcare Vision, and Cigna Corp.
What does Vision Insurance cover?
- Routine eye exams
- Eyeglass frames
- Eyeglass lenses
- Contact lenses
- Discounts on sunglasses (prescription)
- Discounts on contact fittings
- Discounted rates for eye surgeries including LASIK and PRK
What is the Cost of Vision Insurance?
Vision Insurance packages can vary depending on the services you want covered. Most plans include the basic benefits listed above. Typically a vision package is anywhere from $100-$200 for individuals. That annual premium usually covers the full eye exam (after the $15 co-pay). Benefits include covered eyeglass lenses after the $25 co-pay and up to $120 to be used on contact lenses or eyeglass frames (including the fitting). Discounts of 20-25% on lenses options or an extra pair of glasses/sunglasses are also typically included.
Do you have questions regarding Vision Insurance? Give us a call if you think this may be a good benefit to add to your health package and we’ll help you find the best plan for you, your employees, or your family.