Myopia management
Myopia affects our ability to see far-away objects clearly. It’s been linked to a greater risk of developing serious eye diseases later in life, including:
- Cataracts
- Glaucoma
- Myopic macular degeneration
Unfortunately, myopia is on the rise, affecting around 42% of all Americans and 36% of children nationwide. By 2050, it is projected that 50% of people worldwide will be nearsighted.
While myopia can be a hereditary condition, reduced outdoor time and increased hours using digital devices at close range have also been linked to an earlier onset of progressive myopia. In an increasingly digital world, it’s more important than ever to be aware of this growing issue and how to address it. This is especially true for kids. According to the American Optometric Association, children who spend most of their time on both a smartphone and a computer have an 80% higher risk of developing myopia.
What is UnitedHealthcare Vision doing to address myopia?
We’re investing in new ways to help children and adults across the country access testing and treatment for myopia. Through multiple initiatives, we’re working to help make care for myopia more affordable and accessible for eligible members, while separately helping reduce excessive exposure to blue light for children and adults.
We’ve compiled the following information and resources to help you better educate the UnitedHealthcare Vision members you see in your practice about myopia:
Expanded benefits through our Children’s Eye Care Program
Did you know we have a Children’s Eye Care Program? Regular eye exams for children are important, which is why UnitedHealthcare Vision offers an expanded pediatric benefit option at no additional cost*. With this benefit, children up to age 13 have coverage for:
- A second eye exam each year at no additional premium cost
- A new pair of glasses (frames and lenses) at no additional premium cost if their vision prescription changes by 0.5 diopter* or more in a plan year.
- Polycarbonate lenses are available at no additional cost for kids. These lenses are lighter and more shatter-resistant than ordinary lenses.
*Standard copays apply to additional exams and eyewear.
Discounts on myopia treatment through Treehouse Eyes
Treehouse Eyes is a leader in helping myopic kids. They offer specialized treatment to slow or stop the progression of myopia in children. We understand that myopia management can be costly for our members, so we’ve partnered with Treehouse Eyes to offer discounts on treatment at participating locations, as well as online consultations at no cost nationwide.
Interested in partnering with Treehouse Eyes? Learn more about Treehouse Eyes and submit a request to grow with them.
Discounts on blue-light blocking screen filters
UnitedHealthcare Vision members have access to 20% off blue light blocking screen filters for select smartphones, tablets, and laptops from Eyesafe.
Joining the Global Myopia Awareness Coalition
We recently joined the Global Myopia Awareness Coalition (GMAC), which seeks to promote public awareness of nearsightedness in children as a treatable disease and advocate for the use of interventions that have been shown to slow the progression of this condition. Lori Archer, CEO of UnitedHealthcare Vision and a new board member of GMAC further strengthens a group of leading ophthalmic companies and eye health associations focused on addressing the growing consequences of myopia.
GMAC has a variety of resources for parents and guardians to help them navigate myopia including our UnitedHealthcare | GMAC infographic. You are encouraged to download and place the infographic in your practice or on your website to share information with your patients.
