Word of Mouth

This Age-related Macular Degeneration Awareness Month, we’d like to share how taking care of your employees’ eye health has a direct impact on your organization’s health.
 

First off, what is AMD?

AMD is a progressive eye disease that damages the macula, the part of the retina responsible for sharp, central vision. It typically affects those over 50 and can lead to severe vision impairment or even blindness. Factors like aging, genetics, lifestyle factors and vascular conditions increase the risk of AMD.

There are two types of AMD:
 

• Dry AMD: The most common form, which causes gradual vision loss over time.
• Wet AMD: A more severe form, where abnormal blood vessels form and leak fluid or blood, leading to rapid vision loss.

While AMD doesn’t cause complete blindness, it significantly reduces the ability to perform everyday tasks such as reading, driving and recognizing faces. For employees, this can mean increased absenteeism, decreased productivity and potential disability claims.
 

The business impact of AMD on employees

• Difficulty with daily tasks: Reading documents, using computers and navigating the workplace can become challenging.
• Increased healthcare costs: AMD often requires ongoing medical care, including frequent eye exams, treatments or even surgery.
• Loss of productivity: Vision impairment can lead to missed work, reduced efficiency and difficulty in performing job responsibilities.
• Mental health challenges: Vision loss can cause anxiety, depression and other mental health concerns, all of which can further affect workplace performance.

It’s essential to consider how AMD impacts not just employees’ vision but also their mental health and ability to stay productive in the workplace.
 

See how DeltaVision^® can help

As a benefit administrator, you may be looking for vision plans that offer complete coverage while being flexible and affordable. DeltaVision provides a variety of options that can meet the needs of both employees and employers. Here’s how DeltaVision can support your employees in managing their eye health:
 

• Routine eye exams: DeltaVision offers coverage for regular eye exams, which are essential for detecting early signs of AMD and other vision problems.
• Wide network of doctors: Employees have access to a broad network of optometrists and ophthalmologists who can offer expert care and treatment.
• Flexible benefits: DeltaVision plans allow employees to choose from a range of eyewear options, from prescription glasses to contact lenses, helping them maintain optimal vision as part of their daily life.
• Preventive focus: With DeltaVision, employees can access preventive care that supports long-term eye health, including early detection of serious eye conditions.
•   Essential Medical Eye Care: Included with DeltaVision plans, this program provides additional medical care by an in-network eyecare doctor.

By adding high-quality vision benefits, you can give your employees peace of mind knowing that they have access to the care and resources they need to protect their vision.


If you don’t currently have a DeltaVision plan, and want to consider including it into your benefits strategy, reach out to your account manager or broker today.