Correcting Astigmatism: What Vision Insurance Can Offer

​Astigmatism is a common refractive error that causes blurred or distorted vision due to an irregularly shaped cornea or lens. While it may sound intimidating, astigmatism is highly treatable with corrective measures like glasses, contact lenses, or even surgical options. For those managing astigmatism, understanding how vision insurance can help cover the costs of diagnosis, treatment, and correction is essential. Here’s an in-depth look at how vision insurance can support your eye health journey.

1. Understanding Astigmatism
Astigmatism occurs when the cornea or lens has an irregular curvature, preventing light from focusing properly on the retina. Symptoms may include:

• Blurred or distorted vision at all distances.
• Eye strain or discomfort.
• Frequent headaches or difficulty focusing.

A comprehensive eye exam is the first step to diagnosing astigmatism, during which an eye care professional measures the degree of curvature and the impact on your vision.

2. Common Treatment Options

• Glasses:
  Prescription eyeglasses are a simple and effective way to correct astigmatism. They can be tailored to address varying degrees of astigmatism and other refractive errors like myopia or hyperopia.
  
  
• Contact Lenses:
  Toric contact lenses are specially designed for people with astigmatism, providing a precise fit to accommodate the cornea's shape. Other options, like rigid gas-permeable (RGP) or hybrid lenses, may be recommended for more severe cases.
  
  
• Surgical Interventions:
  Procedures such as LASIK or PRK can reshape the cornea to correct astigmatism permanently. These are typically considered for individuals seeking a long-term solution.

3. How Vision Insurance Can Help
Vision insurance plans offer a range of benefits that can significantly reduce the cost of astigmatism correction:

• Coverage for Eye Exams:
  Many vision insurance plans fully or partially cover routine eye exams, which are crucial for diagnosing astigmatism and other eye conditions. These exams often include specialized tests to measure corneal curvature and refractive errors.
  
  
• Discounts on Glasses and Lenses:
  Vision insurance typically provides allowances or discounts for prescription glasses, including lenses specifically designed for astigmatism correction. Some plans also cover lens enhancements like anti-glare coatings or scratch resistance.
  
  
• Contact Lens Benefits:
  If you prefer contacts over glasses, many policies include a yearly allowance for contact lenses. Some even cover specialized lenses like toric or RGP lenses for astigmatism.
  
  
• Savings on Surgical Options:
  While not all vision insurance plans cover LASIK or other refractive surgeries, many offer discounts or partnerships with clinics that perform these procedures. Some policies may also include coverage if the surgery is deemed medically necessary.

4. Choosing the Right Vision Insurance Plan
When selecting a vision insurance plan, consider the following factors:

• Comprehensive Coverage: Ensure the plan covers eye exams, glasses, and contact lenses for astigmatism.
• Specialized Lenses: Check if the policy includes benefits for toric or other specialized lenses.
• Surgical Discounts: If you're considering LASIK, confirm whether your plan offers discounts or partial coverage for the procedure.
• Network Providers: Verify that your preferred eye care providers and optical retailers are within the insurance network.

5. Additional Tips for Managing Astigmatism

• Schedule regular eye exams to monitor your vision and update prescriptions as needed.
• Explore lifestyle changes, like taking breaks during screen time, to reduce eye strain.
• Consider using flexible spending accounts (FSAs) or health savings accounts (HSAs) to cover out-of-pocket costs for vision care.

Conclusion
Correcting astigmatism is a straightforward process with the right tools and resources, and vision insurance can make it even more accessible. From eye exams and glasses to specialized contact lenses and surgical options, understanding your insurance benefits is key to optimizing your care. By leveraging your vision insurance plan, you can ensure clear, comfortable vision while keeping costs manageable. Regular eye care not only improves your daily life but also supports long-term eye health, making it an investment worth prioritizing.

At Hyde Insurance Group, we do our best in making sure that our clients are well-protected with affordable and comprehensive policies. We make sure to go the extra mile to help you with your needs. To learn more about how we can help you, please contact our agency at (888) 345-1215 or  CLICK HERE to request a free quote. 

Disclaimer: The information presented in this blog is intended for informational purposes only and should not be considered as professional advice. It is crucial to consult with a qualified insurance agent or professional for personalized advice tailored to your specific circumstances. They can provide expert guidance and help you make informed decisions regarding your insurance needs.​