Vision insurance could help you cut costs of routine vision care or prescription eyewear. We’ll explain some of the basics of vision insurance: what it might cover, how much it could cost and how to get coverage yourself.
According to The Vision Council, over 197 million adults in the U.S. use some form of vision correction.1 Even if you have good vision now, you may need regular eye exams as you get older or as your eyesight changes.Vision insurance could help you save money on prescription eyewear and routine eye care.
Typically, vision plans cover eyeglasses, contact lenses or select procedures in exchange for premiums. Group vision plans are often available through employers or government programs. Many insurance companies also offer policies that can be purchased by individuals.2
There’s no single set amount for the cost of vision insurance. Premiums, co-pays and options for coverage may vary based on the insurance company, the amount of benefits provided by the vision plan, your age and where you live. For more information on prices for vision insurance, check out our article on how much vision insurance costs. The Humana Vision* plan includes benefits that could save you money on routine eye care services and prescription eyeglasses or contacts.
Different insurance plans and providers may cover different services. However, most vision plans generally cover or offer discounts for basic procedures such as routine eye exams, as well as frames, lenses and contacts.6
Annual eye exams
Routine comprehensive eye exams are an important part of protecting your vision. If you have vision problems or a family history of eye disease, it’s a good idea to get an exam every year.7 The Humana Vision plan offers members 1 routine eye exam every 12 months at participating providers with a $15 copay. For more information on routine exams, check out our article on what to expect during an eye exam.
Contacts
If you’re considering contact lenses, you’ll need a special contact lens exam and fitting first. Many vision insurance plans offer some coverage for contact lenses.8 With the Humana Vision plan, members get a standard contact exam and fitting once every 12 months with a $40 copay at participating providers. Humana Vision also offers a $150 allowance once every 12 months for disposable contacts, in lieu of eyeglass lenses, from participating providers.
To learn more about coverage for contacts, read our article on vision insurance and contact lenses.
Eyeglass frames and lenses
Vision plans typically provide discounts on eyeglass frames and lenses. They may also offer savings on lens enhancements such as scratch resistance and anti-reflective coatings. Humana Vision provides a $150 allowance for frames once every 12 months, and a 20% discount for balances over $150 when purchased through participating providers.
For more information on getting eyeglasses with insurance, check out our article about ordering glasses and contacts online.
Lasik surgery
Laser-assisted in situ keratomileusis (LASIK) is often considered elective surgery. This means that vision insurance plans usually won’t cover it. With Humana Vision, you may be eligible for reduced fees† on LASIK services at select providers:9
- TLC Laser Eye Centers: $1,295 per eye or $1,895 per eye with IntraLase™
- LasikPlus®: $1,895 per eye with IntraLase and LasikPlus free enhancements for life
- QualSight® LASIK: $1,320 per eye or $1,995 per eye with IntraLase and the QualSight Lifetime Assurance Plan.
To learn more, read our article about insurance coverage and Lasik.
Even if you don’t have vision problems, your healthcare provider might suggest you get a routine eye exam every 2 years. Vision insurance could help you pay for important services like a yearly eye exam, glasses or contacts. The cost of Humana Vision depends on your location and age. Get a quote to view price estimates for where you live.
* Humana Vision plans are not available in all states.
† Pricing varies by section, procedure offered by the vision care provider you choose and options in your area. Not all locations offer fixed pricing. Please call the vision care provider for details. Pricing is subject to change without notice.
