What is Vision Insurance?
Vision insurance helps reduce or cover the cost of preventative care (eye examinations) and prescription eyewear. In some cases, vision insurance also offers discounts on vision correction surgery. Depending on the type of plan, coverage can vary between in-and-out of network doctors.
How Much Does it cost?
Like any insurance, you are responsible for paying the premium (the cost of coverage) and the insurance company will cover all (or some) of the cost of your vision care, depending on the specific plan.
If a vision insurance plan is offered through your employer, there are several ways the premium is handled. In some cases, your employer may pay the entire cost of the premium. Another possibility is that both you and your employer split the cost. Or, there are voluntary vision insurance plans, in which you would be responsible for paying the entire premium.
Why is it Important?
Having your eyes checked regularly (at least once every two years) is important for testing more than just visual acuity. Systemic diseases such as diabetes, high cholesterol, and heart disease can be detected during an eye exam. Doctors also are looking for symptoms of eye diseases such as glaucoma or cataracts.
If you need or wear prescription eyewear, maintaining regular eye exams will help keep your vision sharp.