According to the National Eye Institute, more than 150 million Americans wear corrective eye wear. However, based on another study by Vision Service Plan, about 62 million people don’t have any type of vision coverage.
Despite the large number of people who need regular eye care, it is very common for individuals to live without vision insurance.
Vision insurance plans offer a variety of benefits and coverage to members. While you may be currently living without vision insurance, understanding the long-term benefits may make you re-evaluate your insurance needs and prioritize joining a vision plan.
Why Do People Go Without Vision Insurance?
A lot of people think they don’t need vision insurance because their eyesight is currently fine.
Maybe you’re one of them.
The problem with this mindset is your vision can deteriorate over time. You might think your eyesight is fine, when in reality, you may benefit from corrective eye wear. No matter what, you don’t want to run the risk of damaging your eyesight through lack of care.
Another reason people don’t bother to purchase vision insurance is because they don’t realize what it actually covers.
Paying for an eye exam or glasses out of pocket can be very expensive. Having a vision insurance plan covering those additional costs will save you money in the long run.
What Does Vision Insurance Actually Cover?
Vision insurance can be purchased as a group benefit through your employer or as an individual policy.
Vision care plans offer different services—some plans supply only minimal services.
Before joining any plan, you should check to see what your vision insurance plan actually offers and if those offers fit your vision needs.
A basic vision insurance plan will typically cover eye-exams, contacts, and glasses. This may be all the coverage you require.
However, if you think you need more coverage, there are plans that offer more services.
The comprehensive vision insurance plans don’t stop at exams and vision correction. If you could benefit from these services, a comprehensive vision plan might be the best option for you.
If you’re considering joining a vision insurance plan, keep in mind your plan might require you to visit a provider in the plan’s network. So, if you already have an eye doctor you like, make sure your new vision plan will cover that particular doctor’s services.
What Are The Benefits Of Vision Insurance?
Vision insurance will save you money in the long run.
Again, paying for contacts or glasses out of pocket can be extremely expensive, especially if multiple members of your household need eyewear.
Furthermore, most vision care plans provide discounts on laser eye-correction surgery, like LASIK.
Another benefit of vision insurance is its inclusivity. Most vision insurance carriers do not let preexisting conditions stand in the way of helping you get coverage. No matter your condition, you will likely find a vision insurance plan that works for you.
Additionally, vision insurance lets you keep up with regular eye exams. Like other doctor’s appointments, visiting an eye doctor allows them to take preventive measures to protect your eyes.
The eye is subject to a variety of dangerous diseases like glaucoma and cataracts. While you may associate these types of diseases with older adults, younger adults and even children can contract eye diseases that permanently damage their vision.
No matter your age, the health of your eyes is not something you want to mess around with. For example, glaucoma is an optic nerve disease that gradually causes blindness.
Taking preemptive measures to care for your eyes helps prevent these types of diseases. If your eyes do need additional care, your doctor will be able to take early steps to stop their degeneration.
Don’t run the risk of permanent eye damage. Consult a specialist today and find out if vision insurance is right for you.
Ask An Expert The Right Questions
If you live in or near Kosciusko County and are considering investing in vision insurance, set up a time to meet with insurance agent, Michael Suhany. He can walk you through different plan options and answer any questions you may have about the process. Contact him today!