Sumitomo Life Insurance Co. has introduced a new insurance policy designed to cover expenses related to eye care, available exclusively to customers who purchase disposable contact lenses from the Japanese branch of U.S. pharmaceutical company Johnson & Johnson.
This groundbreaking product, provided free of charge to “Acuvue” contact lens users who meet specific conditions, is the first of its kind in Japan’s life insurance sector, according to the company.
The policy, named “Memamori Hoken,” offers a one-time payment of 5,000 yen (approximately $34) to cover costs linked to eye treatment, such as hospital stays, surgeries, or prescribed eye drops.
The coverage is valid for one year and is available to individuals aged 18 to 59. Notably, the premiums for this policy are covered by Johnson & Johnson.
Customers eligible for the policy can access it through the Johnson & Johnson membership app after purchasing a specified amount of Acuvue lenses. Enrollment is completed via Sumitomo Life’s website, and claims can be conveniently filed using a smartphone.
A survey by Johnson & Johnson revealed a rising concern over eye health among young people in Japan, with many avoiding medical treatment due to the inconvenience of visiting a hospital.
“Through this insurance, we aim to reduce the barriers to seeking treatment and help maintain long-term eye health,” a Johnson & Johnson representative commented.
