For the beneficiary who doesn’t meet the requirements for Medicare coverage, some questions need to be answered.
What is Vision Insurance?
Vision insurance is an ancillary coverage you pay for separately that covers things related to your vision and are typically not included in your Medicare health benefits. This can include benefits such as preventative eye exams and ophthalmologist visits, prescription eyewear, and contact lenses.
Vision Insurance plans vary by benefits and premium. MD Medquote has all the major plans offered in the state and in your area. When you get a quote, make sure you compare the plans benefits and premium.
Do I already have Vision Insurance?
Original Medicare and most Medicare Supplement Plans DO NOTinclude vision coverage. Some Medicare Advantage Plans (Part C) offer extra benefits that Original Medicare doesn’t cover-like vision, hearing, or dental. Check your current plan to confirm whether it does or does not include vision coverage.
What are they types of Vision Insurance plans?
Vision Coverages are one of two types:
1. Vision Insurance
- Preferred Provider Organization (PPO) Plan-This type of plan gives higher discounts if service is provided by a provider in the plan’s network.
- Health Maintenance Organization (HMO) Plan-This type of plan requires you to go to a provider associated with the HMO
- Point of Service (POS) Plan-Usually a Point of Service plan allows you to choose your provider
- Indemnity Insurance Plan-This type of plan pays you the benefit instead of the provider. You are required to pay the provider
2. Vision Discount plans
Vision Discount plans are not insurance. These plans have a discount arrangement with a network of providers. You must go to one of these providers and show them your discount card. A discount to the charge is automatically applied and you pay the remaining balance directly to the provider.
A couple of things to watch out for when considering a discount plan are:
- Is there a provider in my area, and who is it-an ophthalmologist or optician?
- What services get the discount and how much is the balance going to be?
It’s important to know what benefits you have or don’t have. Many times, people think they have vision insurance and imagine their disappointment when they have a vision discount plan. Check your current plan to see what benefits you have.
How can I compare plans?
Vision Insurance plans vary by benefits and premium. MD Medquote has all the major plans offered in the state and in your area. When you get a quote, make sure you compare the plans benefits and premium.