The Ultimate Guide to Vision Insurance in Kansas

The Importance of Vision Insurance

In Kansas, where we live amid the vast beauty of the Great Plains, the need for proper vision care and insurance is paramount. Ensuring that our eyes are in peak health is not merely about vision clarity but also contributes significantly to our overall wellness.

Understanding Vision Insurance

Vision insurance typically covers routine preventative eye care like eye examinations and prescription glasses. Some plans also offer discounts on elective vision correction surgery and other procedures. Vision insurance differs from a vision discount plan, which offers savings on vision care for an annual membership cost.

Linking Vision and General Health

Research from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) highlights that routine eye examinations can detect signs of serious health conditions such as diabetes, high blood pressure, and certain cancers. Therefore, vision insurance serves a dual purpose of safeguarding our eyesight and offering a vital line of defense for our broader health.

Finding the Best Vision Insurance in Kansas

When it comes to choosing vision insurance in Kansas, several factors should be considered.

The Coverage

The insurance policy should ideally cover a comprehensive eye examination, eyeglass lenses, frames, and contact lenses. Some insurance policies also cover specific procedures and treatments, such as LASIK.

The Network

Ensure the insurance company has an extensive network of optometrists and ophthalmologists, especially in your local area.

The Cost

The cost of the insurance policy is also a significant factor. This includes not only the monthly premium but also copayments and out-of-pocket costs.

Vision Insurance Providers in Kansas

Coverage details are important; some plans may better fit your household than others. Here are some of our top vision insurance picks for Kansas families:

BEST FOR

• Top-rated vision insurance

1. Best Overall: VSP

Combining the largest network, comprehensive yearly exams, and a choice of affordable plans, is a standout when you need trusted vision care coverage.

Individual plans with annual allowances start at about $13 per month, and an exam with one of VSP’s independently certified network doctors is only $15. VSP’s standard plan offers a $150 allowance for frames or contacts, with an additional $20 available on dozens of brands, like Nike, DKNY, Calvin Klein, and more.

Most lens options have low copays, but if you use progressive lenses, you might want to consider VSP’s EasyOptions plan, which offers this common option with no copay.

BEST FOR

• Top-rated customer service

2. Davis Vision

If you use lens options, take a closer look at Davis Vision. The company’s Premier Plan, priced at under $14 per month for individual coverage, offers several popular lens options with no copayment.

Tinting and scratch-resistant coating can be added at no extra charge. Davis Vision’s Premier Plan focuses on a 12-month frequency for exams ($10 copay), lenses ($20 copay), and frames, which have a $130 allowance so that you can upgrade every year affordably.

Fashion and designer-level Davis Vision Collection frames are included with your allowance and come with a 1- year breakage warranty.

BEST FOR

• Members-only savings

3. EyeMed

While known for coverage at large chains like Pearle Vision and LensCrafters, EyeMed also boasts a large independent provider network. Budget-conscious shoppers can choose EyeMed Healthy, the company’s $5 monthly coverage for exams. Glasses and lenses are offered at a discount to members with EyeMed Healthy.

EyeMed Bold may be a better fit for many Kansas families, however, which starts at $17.50 per month for individual coverage and offers annual coverage for eye exams ($10 copay), lenses ($20 copay), and frames, with a $130 allowance.

Several lens options, like UV treatment and tinting, are offered with no copay but expect to pay a bit more for progressive lenses.

BEST FOR

• Medicare Advantage Plans

4. Humana

Humana’s PPO premium is reasonable at about $16 per month, and annual eye exams from any doctor in Humana’s respected network are only $15.

Contact exams are $40, which is competitive with other vision plans.

Lens options are also priced well, with popular options as low as $15 each and progressive bifocal lenses available for a $65 copay. Humana’s annual frame or contact lens allowance of $150 adds value to a strong plan.

To make a well-informed decision, Kansas residents can use resources provided by the Kansas Insurance Department 2, which offers comprehensive guides and tools to compare different insurance policies.

Maximizing the Benefits of Your Vision Insurance

After choosing the right vision insurance, it's crucial to maximize the benefits it offers.

1. Regular Checkups: Routine eye examinations are essential for maintaining optimal eye health. Most vision insurance policies cover at least one comprehensive eye examination per year.

2. Corrective Eyewear: Take advantage of the coverage for eyeglass lenses, frames, and contact lenses.

3. Specialized Treatments: If your policy includes coverage for specialized treatments or elective procedures, it might be worthwhile to explore these options.

Final Words

In Kansas, we appreciate the grandeur of our surroundings, and to do so, we need our eyes in the best health. Vision insurance plays a vital role in safeguarding our ability to see clearly. Therefore, choosing the right vision insurance requires careful consideration. Make sure the insurance you opt for meets your individual or family needs, fits within your budget, and has a vast network of professionals to ensure you receive the best possible care.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is Vision Insurance?

Vision insurance is a type of health benefit that partially covers vision care, like eye exams and glasses. It can greatly reduce your out-of-pocket expenses when it comes to eye care.

Why Is Vision Insurance Important?

Vision insurance is vital as it covers routine eye exams and may partially or fully cover the cost of glasses or contact lenses. Regular eye exams can also detect various health issues, from diabetes to high blood pressure.

How Does Vision Insurance Work?

Vision insurance works similarly to health insurance. You typically pay a monthly premium, and in exchange, you receive certain vision benefits. These may include eye exams, glasses, contact lenses, and possibly even a discount on vision correction surgery.

Who Needs Vision Insurance?

Anyone who requires routine eye examinations, corrective lenses, or other vision-related services could benefit from vision insurance. This can be especially beneficial for families, people with poor vision, or those prone to eye diseases.

What Does Vision Insurance Cover?

Vision insurance typically covers routine preventive eye care like eye examinations and prescription eyewear. The specifics depend on the individual plan.

Does Vision Insurance Cover Contact Lenses?

Most vision insurance plans do cover contact lenses. However, the extent of the coverage varies from plan to plan.

Does Vision Insurance Cover Eyeglasses?

Yes, vision insurance often covers the cost of eyeglasses, although the amount covered and the types of frames available might be limited depending on the policy.

Does Vision Insurance Cover LASIK Surgery?

Some vision insurance plans may provide a discount for LASIK, but it's less common for this procedure to be fully covered. It's important to carefully check the details of any vision insurance policy for this information.

Can I Use Vision Insurance and a Vision Discount Plan Together?

Usually, you cannot use both a vision insurance plan and a vision discount plan simultaneously. You would need to choose one or the other for each purchase or service.

How Often Can I Get an Eye Exam With Vision Insurance?

Most vision insurance plans cover one comprehensive eye exam yearly, although some may allow more frequent exams.

How Can I Find Out What My Vision Insurance Covers?

You can find out what your vision insurance covers by contacting your insurance provider directly. You can also read your insurance policy's benefits summary or explanation of benefits.

What's The Difference Between Vision Insurance and a Discount Vision Plan?

Vision insurance is similar to health insurance - you pay a monthly premium for coverage of certain eye care expenses. On the other hand, a discount vision plan offers savings on vision care for an annual membership cost rather than insurance coverage.

How Do I Use My Vision Insurance?

To use your vision insurance, you visit a vision care provider within your network, present your insurance information, and pay any copay or balance not covered by your insurance.

How Can I Maximize the Benefits of My Vision Insurance?

To maximize the benefits of your vision insurance, ensure regular eye exams, utilize your eyewear benefits, and explore any additional benefits, such as discounts on vision correction surgery.

Where Can I Buy Vision Insurance?

You can purchase vision insurance through various avenues, including an employer's benefits package, directly from an insurance company, or through the health insurance marketplace.

Can I Buy Vision Insurance on My Own?

Yes, you can buy vision insurance on your own. Many insurance companies offer individual plans.

Is Vision Insurance Worth It?

Whether or not vision insurance is worth it depends on your individual needs. Vision insurance can save you money if you require regular eye exams or corrective lenses.

Can I Use Vision Insurance Immediately?

Many vision insurance plans have a waiting period before you can use the benefits, while others may allow immediate use. This information can be

https://www.cdc.gov/visionhealth/risk/tips.htm