FAQs of Vision Insurance Plans

How and Where Can You Obtain Vision Insurance?

There are various ways to obtain vision insurance coverage. You have the option to purchase a vision benefit plan, which may be available through your employer, school district, or social plans like Medicare or Medicaid.

Vision insurance is often included as a value-added benefit in different types of health insurance plans. For instance, indemnity health insurance allows policyholders to choose their own medical providers and may include vision insurance as part of the plan. Additionally, health maintenance organization (HMO) plans and preferred provider organizations (PPOs) may offer vision insurance coverage.

HMO health plans require members to receive healthcare services exclusively from HMO providers, who offer medical care at discounted rates. HMO networks consist of various healthcare professionals, including doctors, laboratories, and hospitals.

On the other hand, a PPO is a network of healthcare professionals that provides services to members at reduced rates. While PPO plan members have the flexibility to use out-of-network providers, they typically incur higher costs for such services.

What Types of Vision Insurance Plans Are Available?

Vision insurance is available in two primary forms: discount vision plans and vision benefits packages.

Discount Vision Plan: This type of plan offers eye care services at fixed discounted rates. To access the benefits, members usually pay an annual premium or membership fee and fulfill a deductible.

Vision Benefits Package: Typically, a vision benefits package involves an annual premium or membership fee, a yearly deductible for each enrolled member, and a co-pay for each service availed. This type of plan provides a comprehensive range of vision-related services and products.

Discount vision plans and vision benefits packages can be tailored to meet the specific needs of different customer groups, such as unions, large corporations, small businesses, and school districts.

What Does Vision Insurance Cover?

Standard vision insurance plans generally include the following services and products:

• LASIK and PRK vision correction at discounted rates
• Annual eye examinations
• Contact lenses
• Eyeglass frames
• Eyeglass lenses

Typically, services obtained from network providers are more affordable than those from out-of-network providers.

Are There Payment Options?

If your employer offers group vision insurance, you may have the convenience of paying for it through payroll deductions or flexible spending accounts.

A flexible spending account, also known as a cafeteria plan, allows employees to use pre-tax dollars to purchase selected health benefits, including vision insurance. This arrangement can save you money by allowing you to utilize income set aside for health costs without being subject to or reduced by taxation.

If you are self-employed or if your employer does not offer vision insurance, you can expect to receive monthly or annual billing for the coverage.