Vision insurance is quite cheap. Expect to pay in the area of $50 (per individual/per year) for an average plan through an HMO, insurance carrier, or otherwise. Employers generally contribute 25-50% of the individual's annual premium.

If you do decide to go through your health insurance provider, you may save a few pennies but the plan may end up too narrow for your employees' liking. The cost will be tacked on to the employee's health insurance premium.

There are many different plans and insurance carriers-major insurance carriers as well as smaller independent carriers offer coverage. Get at least three quotes (many places let you do it online) and then do some comparing to get the best price.

Patients may have to pay up front for the visit and get reimbursed, or the optometrist may handle payment directly with the insurance company.