April 11, 2007

In March, News Transmission offered advice on preventing eye injuries as part of Workplace Eye Safety Month. Proper eye care, however, is an ongoing commitment that extends beyond work. As explained below, annual eye exams are the first step in maintaining healthy vision year-round.

Like protective eyewear, annual eye exams are necessary for maintaining good vision. As explained on the Vision Services Plan website (E.ON U.S.'s eye-care plan), an important first step is understanding the difference between eye exams and eye screenings.

Screenings are considered "limited eye assessments" and are not performed by an eye doctor. Examples include procedures performed by a school nurse, a pediatrician or even those vision tests giving at the license branch.

Although screenings may be helpful in detecting problems, they should not replace a thorough eye exam given annually by an optometrist or ophthalmologist. Eye exams allow doctors to:

• measure for prescription lenses to correct nearsightedness, farsightedness and astigmatism;
• check for the presence of eye diseases and conditions such as glaucoma, macular degeneration, cataracts and diabetic retinopathy;
• ensure your eyes are working well together, while also evaluating your eyes as part of your overall health.

The VSP site also provides a variety of additional information for you and your family on topics such as computer vision syndrome, laser vision correction, contact lens care, eye issues for mature adults and children’s eye health.

Resource information is contained under the “Eye Care Information” heading on the website. In addition, information about your VSP benefits is available on the Benefits website > Summary Plan Descriptions > Vision Plan.

Don't take your vision for granted. By scheduling regular eye exams from a qualified eye-care professional and staying informed, you can maintain good vision for years to come.

Watch News Transmission for an upcoming story about the advantages your eye-care plan offers.