Vision Insurance

## Vision Insurance

Vision insurance covers routine eye care — exams, glasses, and contact lenses. It is usually a low-cost, separate benefit in the US and often included in national health systems elsewhere.

### Typical US Coverage

| Service | Frequency | Benefit |
|---------|-----------|--------|
| Eye exam | Annual | Covered in full or small copay |
| Glasses frames | Every 12–24 months | $130–$200 allowance |
| Lenses | Annual | Covered in full |
| Contacts | Annual (instead of glasses) | $130–$200 allowance |

### Cost

Employer-sponsored vision plans typically cost $5–$15/month per employee. Given the low premiums and predictable benefits, vision insurance is more like a discount plan than true insurance.

### Global Context

Most national health systems cover eye exams but not corrective lenses. In the UK, NHS eye tests are free for certain groups (children, over 60, low income). Japan's national insurance covers a portion of eye exam costs.