People are used to major medical insurance covering most of the cost of services.
Vision and dental insurance don't work that way.
Dentistry is not considered as a branch of medicine by the federal government. Dentists don't go to medical school, only to dental school. Dental insurance is a bit more expensive because it isn't considered medically necessary.
In fact, barbers used to do dental work in the late 18th century. Dentistry was considered "aesthetic only" at one time.
You may not need dental insurance if your dental health is good. Out-of-pocket cleanings may not bother you. If you have kids, you may want dental insurance. Dental care for children is included under Obamacare.
Ophthalmologists go to medical school and can do medical procedures. Eye health procedures conducted by an ophthalmologist and emergency surgeries are covered by medical insurance.
Optometrists do not go to medical school and are covered by vision insurance. Vision insurance covers your eye exams, contact lenses and glasses. If you know you need contacts or glasses, get the insurance for the savings and discounts. Some employers offer vision insurance for as little as $4 per month.
Health insurance expert and President of Government Relations for GTL, Marianne Eterno, joins host Melanie Cole to discuss the basics of dental and vision insurance.
Dental & Vision Insurance: What You Should Know
Featured Speaker:
Marianne Eterno began her insurance career in 1987 at the former Golden Rule Insurance Company in Indianapolis, Indiana, and moved to Chicago in 1992, when she accepted a position with Celtic Insurance Company.
Marianne came to Guarantee Trust Life Insurance Company (GTL) in 1996, as a compliance and government relations consultant, and formally joined the company in 1997. As Assistant Vice President of Government Relations, she represents GTL in both the state and federal arenas, drives coalition development for the company, and serves as the company's media and public relations spokesperson.
In addition to sitting on committees for every major insurance trade association, Marianne serves on the Board of Directors of RetireSafe, a 400,000 member grassroots advocacy organization for senior citizens and as the Executive Director for the Council for Affordable Health Insurance.
Marianne Eterno, President of Government Relations for GTL
Marianne Eterno began her insurance career in 1987 at the former Golden Rule Insurance Company in Indianapolis, Indiana, and moved to Chicago in 1992, when she accepted a position with Celtic Insurance Company.Marianne came to Guarantee Trust Life Insurance Company (GTL) in 1996, as a compliance and government relations consultant, and formally joined the company in 1997. As Assistant Vice President of Government Relations, she represents GTL in both the state and federal arenas, drives coalition development for the company, and serves as the company's media and public relations spokesperson.
In addition to sitting on committees for every major insurance trade association, Marianne serves on the Board of Directors of RetireSafe, a 400,000 member grassroots advocacy organization for senior citizens and as the Executive Director for the Council for Affordable Health Insurance.