Consumer Guide to
Vision Insurance

In All About Vision's Consumer Guide to Vision Insurance, you'll find comprehensive explanations of the different ways that companies or individuals can obtain vision benefits. You'll also learn how to compare different plans, and which ones might apply to your specific situation.

Because these topics are covered in detail, you might consider printing out sections that interest you so that you can study the information at your leisure.

The Consumer Guide to Vision Insurance includes these topics:

What Is Vision Insurance?
A vision insurance plan differs from regular health insurance because it is a wellness benefit that helps defray costs of eye exams, eyewear, and other vision services. In this section, you'll also learn what you can expect to pay for vision insurance coverage.

How To Use Your Vision Insurance
Whether you want a comprehensive eye exam, eyeglasses, contact lenses, or laser eye surgery, learn how best to take advantage of your vision insurance benefits — and when not to use them.

Understanding Provider Networks and Vision Insurance Benefits
Understand how vision insurance plans use networks of providers for services such as eye exams, and learn the difference between plans that provide benefits or discounts.

Medicare and Medicaid Vision Benefits
This article outlines what vision benefits are available under Medicare and Medicaid, plus how you can obtain them. We also include information of particular importance to people with major eye problems such as cataracts and glaucoma.

How To Choose a Vision Insurance Plan
If you're not being provided with a vision insurance plan by your employer, we tell you how to get vision benefits as an individual. And if you're looking to choose a plan for a small business, you'll find helpful information on how to assess your needs and compare options.

Defined Contribution Plans Reduce Eye Care Costs
Learn how cafeteria plans, flex plans, HRAs and health savings plans can save you money on your eye care.

Vision Insurance Providers
Read a quick overview of how vision plan providers in the United States typically conduct business.

Glossary of Vision Insurance Terms
This short list of common terms related to vision benefits and accompanying explanations should help you better understand vision insurance options.

[Page updated April 2009]