HPIO released policy brief on vision coverage, health status in Ohio

The latest policy brief from the Health Policy Institute of Ohio, Vision Coverage and Health in the State of Ohio (pdf, 4 pages), examines vision coverage and its impact on the health of Ohioans.

The ability to see clearly is often taken for granted, but is integral to functioning across all life stages. According to the 2008 Ohio Family Health Survey, almost two-in-five children and adults in the state of Ohio lack vision coverage. The OFHS also found that those without vision coverage are significantly less likely to obtain regular vision care.

Though coincidental, the release of the brief is especially timely given reports that Gov. Strickland may consider cutting vision coverage (as well as dental coverage) from the state Medicaid program as part of a plan to address the state’s $3.2 billion budget shortfall (Source: “Governor suggests $2 billion in cuts,” Columbus Dispatch, June 17, 2009).