Understanding Insurance Benefits for Eye Care

Many people find eye care coverage confusing because of the distinctions between vision insurance and medical insurance. We’re here to help you better understand how insurance may relate to your specific eye health needs. Please note that this guidance is general. Always review your plan carefully to understand your individual benefits.

Open Enrollment

Medicare open enrollment: October 15–December 7, 2025
ACA Marketplace (HealthCare.gov) open enrollment: November 1, 2025–January 15, 2026
open enrollment for employer plans varies by employer.

Why is Access to Eye Care so Important?

There are many reasons you may need eye care. You may need:

  • an eye exam for prescription eyeglasses or contact lenses,
  • treatment for an eye disease or eye condition,
  • an exam to diagnose symptoms you may be experiencing,
  • an eye exam at regular intervals as suggested by your doctor,
  • medicine for your eyes,
  • or you may want cosmetic or elective eye treatments.

How you access and pay for eye and vision care will depend on the type of insurance coverage you have and how well you understand these vision and eye care benefits.

Let’s explore the common vision health services covered by each type of insurance.