Key insurance terms that start with "V"

Vision coverage is a health benefit that helps pay for eye care services — including eye exams, prescription eyeglasses, and contact lenses. Like dental, adult vision coverage is not an Essential Health Benefit under the ACA and is generally not included in standard health insurance plans for adults. Pediatric vision, however, is required.

On the ACA Marketplace:

• Pediatric vision: Required as an Essential Health Benefit on all ACA Marketplace plans. Covers one comprehensive eye exam per year and a pair of eyeglasses or contact lenses annually for children under 19.
• Adult vision: Not required. Must be purchased as a standalone vision plan or as an add-on to a health or dental plan.

Standalone vision plans are typically very affordable — often $10–$20/month — and cover:

• One annual comprehensive eye exam (usually fully covered or with a small copay)
• Allowances toward frames or contacts (typically $100–$200 per year)
• Discounts on lens upgrades (anti-glare, progressive lenses, etc.)

If you wear glasses or contacts, a standalone vision plan almost always pays for itself within the first year.