iQuanti: Being self-employed has many perks, like making your own schedule, working remotely, and creating a work-life balance. Still, whether you're a freelancer, gig economy worker, consultant, or sole proprietor of a business, you likely have to cover your own health insurance plan. That's because you don't have a company that can subsidize that insurance for you.
When choosing your own coverage this way, it can be tough to figure out your options for eye insurance. For example, is it worth paying for? And if so, what are the best options for your needs?
If you're struggling with these questions, you're not alone. According to a study by the Freelancers Union and Upwork, 57 million Americans — or 35% of the workforce — freelance. And 60% say they opt to work for themselves despite the challenges of managing their own healthcare.
To help, we'll outline the importance of maintaining eye health and the options available to self-employed workers seeking vision insurance.
Why vision insurance can be important
Eye problems can be indicative of other health issues that greatly impact whole-body wellness. That's why vision care is so important. Beyond just updating prescriptions for glasses and contact lenses, regular eye exams can help detect, prevent, and treat illnesses that affect holistic health. Eyes should be checked for damaged blood vessels, straining, blurred vision, and dry eye, as these can be symptoms and side effects of larger health issues.
In certain cases, for example, vision issues can lead to or be signals of diabetes, hypertension, cancer, stroke, arthritis, and multiple sclerosis. Even for those without subsidized healthcare, eye insurance can help cover the costs of vision care and improve overall health.
How can self-employed workers obtain eye insurance?
Depending on their needs and finances, self-employed workers have several options for obtaining eye insurance, such as:
- Private health insurance. Individual and family health insurance plans can be expensive, but they may provide benefits for eye care. Just be sure to research the terms of each package, including deductibles, premiums, and discounts.
- Spouse's healthcare policy. If your spouse is employed and receives health insurance through their company, you may be able to join their family plan and be added to their policy.
- Health savings account (HSA). Some health insurance plans may allow you to open an HSA, which pulls pre-tax income aside each payment period for future medical expenses.
- Affordable Care Act (ACA). You may be eligible for ACA insurance if you're low-income, high risk for certain health issues, or have a pre-existing condition.
- Freelancer's Union. This organization provides health insurance plans for self-employed workers in certain U.S. states. You can research their options to see if any plans provide eye care benefits that meet your needs.
- Start a business. If you incorporate and start your own business, you may be able to set up a health insurance plan for yourself and any employees.
If you opt for no insurance plan, you may still be able to work with your doctor to finance your eye care. You can set up a payment plan, for instance, or qualify for a discount if you pay upfront and out of pocket.
Regardless of how you handle your eye insurance, it's important to understand the choices available to you so you can make the best decisions for your vision health.
Press Release Service by Newswire.com
Original Source: A Guide to Vision Insurance for Self-Employed Workers
