Your Vision: Seeing Clearly

According to the National Eye Institute, more than 11 million Americans have an uncorrected visual impairment. But even those with 20/20 vision should make sure that they visit the eye doctor. Routine exams don’t just check vision and eye health — they can also detect underlying chronic diseases like high blood pressure, hypertension, and diabetes. (Eye doctors have an unobstructed view of blood vessels, which is where they can see signs of these conditions.)

The American Optometric Association recommends eye exams at least once every two years or annually for those who wear glasses or contacts. They also note that online eye exams are not a substitute for a comprehensive, in-person eye exam by an optometrist or ophthalmologist. The fall is a great time to schedule your appointment — thanks to the colder air outside, forced heat inside, and seasonal allergies, many of us experience dry and/or itchy eyes. Optometrists can diagnose the condition, ease any seasonal discomfort, and conduct an eye exam in one visit.

Since many eye diseases, like glaucoma, have no early symptoms, it’s important to be just as proactive about your eye health as you are about other preventative check-ups. Another smart idea is to take advantage of specialty services like vision and dental plans, which can protect you from out-of-pocket expenses and offer perks like additional discounts and warranties. Finally, setting up a health spending account (HSA) can help you put aside dollars for any health care emergencies or significant expenses in the future — including glasses, contact lenses, and content lens cleaning supplies.

Find more information on how Independence Blue Cross can be a part of your plan for health and wellness.

Sponsor content is created for IBX by Philadelphia magazine as a marketing collaboration with IBX. This material is intended for reference and information only and should not be used in place of advice from a doctor or suitable qualified healthcare professional.