Types of Vision Plans

Regular health insurance typically pays for the diagnosis and treatment of eye diseases and injuries to the eyes, but will not cover eye exams, eyeglasses, or contacts.  Because of this it is a good idea to invest in a vision plan.

Vision plans can be acquired through your regular insurance provider, a vision insurance company or a discount plan.  Both vision insurance and discount plans usually have contracts with eye care professionals in order to provide you with discounted services.

The amount of coverage you receive through vision insurance depends on the policy you purchase.  Basic plans tend to cover annual eye exams, eyeglass and contact purchases, and glaucoma screening.  Plans may have a limit on how often certain services will be paid for.  It is important to be aware of the details of your policy and what it covers before visiting your eye doctor.

Enrollment in a vision discount plan (also known as vision benefit plans) can offer specific discounts for services, saving you up to 40% off regular exam and eyeglass prices, in exchange for an annual fee.  Basic plans tend to cover an eye exam, and one pair of eyeglasses or contact lenses.  The annual fee depends on the plan you choose and whether it is an individual or a group plan.