Woman trying on glasses in an optical store, standing in front of a display wall and looking at herself in the mirror.

Vision care is an important part of health care. Regular eye exams not only keep your eyes healthy, but they can also help detect early signs of serious health conditions like high blood pressure, diabetes, skin cancer, and many more1. That’s why vision care is essential for people of all ages – from infants to older adults – and even those with good vision.

When you have vision insurance, it’s easy and affordable to get your eyes checked on a regular basis. Vision insurance covers routine eye exams and helps pay for glasses, frames, and contact lenses.

Shopping for vision insurance can be easy and straightforward if you know what to look for. Follow these tips to help you find a vision plan that’s best for you.

Assessing Your Vision and Health Needs

Getting regular eye exams is not just about needing glasses. During your eye exam, your doctor will look for signs of health problems that can lead to vision loss, as well as vision correction needs.

Eye exams are even more important for people with diabetes and those who are at higher risk for eye diseases, like glaucoma.2 Check with your healthcare provider for more specific recommendations.

Eye Exams at Every Age and Life Stage

Grandmother and mother are seated while daughter stands behind with arms around their shoulders.

Babies should receive an eye exam between 6 and 12 months of age and again prior to entering preschool.3

Amblyopia (decreased vision because the eye and brain don’t work together properly) is the most common cause of vision loss in children. It must be treated quickly to avoid vision loss.4

School-age children should receive an eye exam prior to entering the first grade and annually thereafter.5

Adults aged 19 to 40 should receive an eye exam at least every two years.6

Vision disability is one of the top 10 disabilities among adults 18 years and older.7

Annual eye exams are especially important for older adults.

Risk for developing age-related eye disease, such as glaucoma, cataracts and macular degeneration, increases after age 60.8

Vision Screenings vs. Eye Exams: An Important Difference9

While both are important, a comprehensive eye exam is not the same thing as a vision screening.

  • A vision screening is an evaluation used to identify the need for additional eye care. It can be done by a family doctor, pediatrician, school nurse, or other healthcare professional.
  • A comprehensive eye exam is a thorough exam done by an eye doctor – a specialist called an ophthalmologist or optometrist. The eye doctor can diagnose a medical or vision problem and provide treatment.

What to Consider When Shopping for Vision Insurance

Vision insurance is an important investment for your overall health. When researching vision insurance plans, start by comparing coverage, costs, and the network of eyecare professionals.

  • Premiums and cost considerations – Choose a plan that provides cost information up front to help you make an informed decision.
  • Coverage options and benefit limits – Covered services and benefit limits may vary based on the insurance company. Generally, most plans will cover or offer discounts for basic vision care such as routine eye exams, as well as frames, lenses and contacts. Some plans may also offer discounts on procedures like Lasik eye surgery. 
  • In-network vs. out-of-network providers – With most vision plans, you’ll get more out of your coverage and pay lower out-of-pocket costs when you see an in-network provider. Make sure your plan offers a large network of providers to choose from, and take time to understand the out-of-network process just in case.
  • Waiting periods and exclusions – Check to see if the plan requires a waiting period before you can start using your benefits with network providers.
  • Coverage for eye exams, prescription glasses, and contact lenses – Vision insurance makes it easier to pay for glasses and contacts with discounts at participating network providers.
  • Extra benefits and discounts – Some plans offer additional benefits like rebates, special offers and discounts on things like designer frames and LASIK eye surgery.

Evaluating Provider Networks

Look for a vision insurance plan that includes a network of reputable eye care professionals in your area. This typically includes opticians, optometrists, and ophthalmologists who can provide care, eyeglasses and contacts covered under the plan.

If you have a preferred eye doctor, use a plan’s provider search tool to see if they are in-network. If not, you can search for an in-network provider in your area. You can also check to see if the plan offers vision coverage with out-of-network providers.

Deciphering the Fine Print

Because every vision insurance plan is different, it’s important to review and fully understand the costs and benefits, be aware of limitations such as waiting periods and pre-existing condition clauses, and seek clarification for any uncertainties.

Many insurance companies also offer helpful online resources, such as cost calculators, provider search tools and FAQs, which you can reference while comparing vision plans.

Man wearing glasses seated at his desk looking at his laptop. He has his hand under his chin.

Maximizing Your Vision Benefits

  • Schedule regular eye exams to monitor your vision (and overall) health
    Annual eye exams are a good rule of thumb, unless your doctor suggests more frequent checks.
  • Use your vision benefits to help pay for eyewear
    Most vision insurance plans include discounts on glasses (lenses and frames), contact lenses, sunglasses, and more.
  • Take advantage of special offers and discounts
    Some vision insurance plans offer extra perks, like discounts on glasses, contact lenses, and LASIK procedures, as well as other wellness products and services.
  • Understand how to file claims and appeals if needed
    In some cases, such as if you visit a non-network provider, you may need to submit a claim for reimbursement. Understanding the process for filing claims and appeals is important for getting the most out of your vision coverage.
Lightbulb with checkmark inside

Tips for Saving on Eye Care

  • Follow good eye health practices – Protect your vision by getting regular eye exams, understanding your family’s eye health history, eating a healthy diet, wearing sunglasses and not smoking.
  • Stay within your plan’s coverage guidelines – Remember, seeing in-network providers saves you money.
  • Bundle your vision coverage – Add value and protection for you and your family with combined dental and vision plans.

Ready to Enroll in Vision Care?

Through our partnership with VSP® Vision Care, Renaissance offers coverage for eye exams, lenses, frames and contacts. Our vision insurance plans are conveniently bundled with our individual and family dental plans for maximum value and protection.

  • One of the largest national network of independent eye doctors.10
  • Vision care from the best doctors – providers within the VSP® network have met the highest credential requirements.
  • Large selection of eyewear to fit any style and budget.
  • Combined billing for hassle-free benefits that are easy to understand.
  • Access to a world-class certified customer service team and 24/7 benefit information.

Learn more about bundling vision coverage with your dental plan

Individuals & Families

Bundle dental and vision with Active Lifestyles.

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Medicare Supplement

Add dental and vision to complete your benefits package.

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