Uninsured Workers Twice as Likely to Skip Eye Exams
Adults without vision benefits report cost barriers that lead to lower usage of preventative eye care services.
Updated on Oct. 27, 2026 in Insurance
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A new industry survey finds that adults without employer-sponsored vision coverage are twice as likely to skip eye exams due to costs. As employer health benefit costs face a projected 8.2% increase in 2027, the gap in preventative care access remains a significant hurdle for uninsured workers.
Why it matters
Access to vision benefits remains a primary barrier to preventative eye care for the workforce, even as employers weigh rising health costs. Optometry groups are currently advocating for stricter oversight of vision benefit managers to protect patient choice and care access.
Adults without vision coverage are twice as likely to forgo eye exams as those with plans. With employer health benefit costs projected to rise 8.2% in 2027, 84% of uninsured individuals cite cost as the primary barrier to accessing care.
The players
Alliance for Affordable Vision Care
An industry group representing interests in eye care coverage and provider access.
The details
Vision benefit managers act as intermediaries that structure networks and process claims for eye care services. Recent legislative reforms in Illinois and Louisiana seek to increase accountability for these managers to prevent practices that limit network choice and increase patient costs. Households without these benefits are significantly more exposed to full out-of-pocket costs, which creates a sharp disparity in preventative care utilization.
Timeline
May 2026: Louisiana enacted SB 404 vision benefit reform legislation.
July-August 2026: The Alliance for Affordable Vision Care conducted its survey.
August 2026: Illinois enacted new regulations on vision benefit managers.
October 27, 2026: The Alliance for Affordable Vision Care released its survey results.
2027: Employer health benefit costs are projected to rise 8.2%.
Money Landscape
The push for tighter oversight follows the 2026 Illinois and Louisiana vision benefit manager regulations, which established new accountability standards. This movement seeks to curb administrative practices that currently limit provider choice and increase patient costs.
If you are currently uninsured, check your employer's open enrollment materials for vision options, as these plans frequently reduce total out-of-pocket costs for essential care. Consult with a qualified benefits administrator to understand how your specific plan network functions before scheduling your next eye exam.
The takeaway
Lack of vision insurance remains the most significant barrier to preventative eye health for the average employee. Households should review their employer health benefit statements ahead of the projected 8.2% cost increase in 2027 to ensure their coverage meets their preventative needs.
Further reading
Learn more about managing coverage and costs in our Insurance section.
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Do you feel your employer-sponsored health benefits provide enough protection against rising medical costs?
