Buy the Right Kind

The American Academy of Ophthalmology suggests you choose sunglasses that:

• Block 99 or 100 percent of ultraviolet (UV) rays. Some manufacturer’s labels say “UV absorption up to 44nm,” which is the same thing as 100 percent UV absorption. UV radiation is linked to cataracts and to eye growths. 
• Are impact resistant. No lens is completely unbreakable, but plastic lenses are less likely than glass lenses to shatter when hit by a ball or stone.
• Have a wraparound style. Studies have shown that enough UV rays enter around the edges of ordinary sunglass frames to reduce the benefits of protective lenses. Large-framed wraparound glasses can protect your eyes from all angles.

Know Your Vision Benefit

US Family Health Plan covers one eye examination per Plan year (Oct. 1 through Sept. 30) by a participating Plan provider. Ordinarily, members see an optometrist for routine eye care. Covered services must be provided by an EyeMed network provider. To find an EyeMed provider, go to eyemedvisioncare.com or call 1.866.504.5908.

For treatment of non-routine medical conditions, members may see an ophthalmologist, who is a specialist. Covered services (for example, an eye exam if you have glaucoma or diabetes) must take place within the Tufts Health Plan network and require a referral from your primary care provider. If you have questions, please call 1.800.818.8589.