Eye-Care Insurance
Eye-care insurance is a vital part of health coverage. The proactive approach to vision wellness ranks low in the midst of heavy computer usage, extreme environmental exposures and active lifestyles. Misconceptions about vision health increase risks for injury and disease that can be prevented. According to the American Optometric Association, excessive UV rays can result in cataracts, macular degeneration or, in some cases, skin cancer around the eyelids. Healthy living and regular eye care can help reduce risks of damage and illness.
Eye-Care Insurance
Eye-care or vision insurance supplements health insurance coverage to reduce costs related to eye care. Individual and family plans are available privately or through employer-sponsored group health plans. Vision coverage is also available through federal and state-funded health plans such as Medicare, Medicaid and children's health initiatives.
Plan Benefits
Vision insurance typically covers standard eye exams, eyeglass frames, eyeglass lenses and contact lenses, including fitting. Some plans offer coverage for refractive surgery and other services. HMOs (health maintenance organizations) offer services within their own network, while PPOs (preferred provider organizations) permit out-of-network services at a higher cost.
Cost
The cost for annual benefits may vary depending on the plan. Private plans typically cost more than group plans that are partially funded by the employer. Routine eye exams and lenses are usually covered in full after a co-payment. A benefit allowance is provided for eyeglass frames and contact lenses. A co-pay may also apply to the cost of frames before the benefit allowance.
Vision Discount Plans
Vision discount plans are an affordable alternative to eye-care insurance. The same benefits are available for a lower membership fee and co-pays are not required. Services are provided at a discount from customary charges.
Foresight
With 1 in 4 Americans age 40 and older experiencing some form of vision loss, regular vision care is vital for early detection of any disorders. Lifestyle changes can have a positive impact on your vision in the long term. A healthy diet that includes lutein and zeaxanthin, found in spinach, is the healthiest for the eyes. Essential fatty acids, vitamins C, E and zinc are important nutrients for eye health.
Maintain an eye-care plan to help offset the cost of exams, eye wear and ongoing vision expenses. Shop and compare plan options to get the best value. If your employer offers eye-care insurance, find out the benefit options available by asking the plan administrator for details.
Tags: benefit allowance, contact lenses, Eye-Care Insurance Eye-care, eyeglass frames, health plans, Insurance Eye-care