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Understanding Vision Insurance: Are You Covered?

Buying insurance can be an intimidating process for many people. However, the benefits it provides is a worthwhile investment for families all across the country. Each state has different requirements and standards when it comes to vision insurance, but there are a few basics of coverage that are fairly consistent nationwide.

How to Get Vision Insurance?

Vision insurance for many families is vital to maintaining optimal eye health. It means different things to different people and plans vary, to some degree, from state to state. The Affordable Care Act includes pediatric vision coverage in all Qualified Health Plans.

Adult vision coverage must be obtained elsewhere. Adults have the option of purchasing standalone vision insurance coverage in all U.S. states. The best source of information for purchasing vision insurance is available through the Department of Insurance in your home state or a trusted insurance agent.

You can even purchase vision insurance online if you’re of the mind to do so. It’s often best, though, to work with someone you can look in the eye and call on the phone when you have questions or concerns.

It’s all a matter of what you’re most comfortable with. The insurance industry in every state is fairly heavily regulated and you can check with your state Department of Insurance and/or the Better Business Bureau to check for a pattern of complaints with a specific company before buying.

What Does Basic Vision Insurance Cover?

Most families, unless you have a history, family history, or deep-seated fear of vision problems will do well with basic vision coverage. Choosing a basic policy will ensure that you have access to free or reduced rate vision screenings on a regular basis—most plans include something like one eye exam yearly.

Some will even offer something along the lines of one pair of lenses annually and one new frame every two years. This allows family the option of one set of high quality lenses and frames and the ability to seek discount lenses and frames for a backup or secondary pair if necessary.

Most basic vision insurance plans will cover all types of lenses—even specialty contacts such as Biofinity Toric contact lenses for astigmatism. Other types of lenses that are often covered include: single vision lenses, lined bifocals, trifocals, and polycarbonate lenses. Some insurance plans also include certain protective coating and, in some cases, tinting for eyeglass lenses too.

Anyone who suffers from astigmatism understands that Biofinity Toric contacts by CooperVision are game changers that allow them to make the move to contacts after being denied the privilege for so many decades. This explains is why there is often fear that these specialty lenses will be denied for coverage—but it simply isn’t the case in most states.

Most plans do have a limit for the costs of frames and eye exams as well as copayments for services rendered. Some even offer discounts for certain vision treatments that may be required in the course of the year.

Choosing the right vision insurance plan for you, your family, and your situation isn’t always as simple as picking a plan at random. It’s important to discuss your vision insurance needs with an agent who will take the time to work with you in order to ensure that you get the coverage you need whether you’re considering Biofinity Toric lenses or you’re going through your sixth pair of glasses in a two-year span of time.

The other important thing to consider about vision insurance is the fact that situations change—often in the blink of an eye. While you may be living the single life today, tomorrow you could be married with children and facing new needs from your vision plan. Choose insurance coverage that can grow with you as life’s little adjustments come along.

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