What is vision insurance, and what does it cost?
The term "vision insurance" is commonly used to describe health and wellness plans designed to reduce your costs for routine preventive eye care (eye exams) and prescription eyewear (eyeglasses and contact lenses). Some vision plans also offer discounts on elective vision correction surgery, such as LASIK and PRK.

But unlike major medical insurance policies that may provide unlimited benefits after a certain co-pays and deductibles are met, most vision insurance plans are discount plans or wellness benefit plans that provide specific benefits and discounts for an annual premium.

When purchasing "vision insurance," be sure you fully understand the costs and benefits associated with the plan(s) you are considering. Also, if you have vision care coverage through a plan at work, be aware that "vision insurance" plans usually operate differently than other health insurance plans or major medical insurance.

Where can I Get Vision Insurance?
Group vision insurance can be obtained through your company, association, school district, etc., or through a government program such as Optavise.

If you are not eligible for a group plan because you are self-employed or for other reasons, most vision insurance providers also offer policies that you can purchase individually.

Vision insurance often is a value-added benefit linked to indemnity health insurance, health maintenance organizations (HMOs) and preferred provider organizations (PPOs) that have contracted with managed vision care networks to provide eye care services.

Indemnity health insurance is traditional health insurance that allows policyholders access to medical providers of their choice.