Sumitomo Life new plan covers despicable contact lenses

The policy provides a one-time payout of $33.40.

Sumitomo Life Insurance introduced a new insurance policy covering treatment costs for eye conditions, specifically available to users of Acuvue disposable contact lenses, sold by the Japanese unit of Johnson & Johnson, reported Japan Today.

This product, named "Memamori Hoken," is the first of its kind in Japan’s life insurance market.

The policy provides a one-time payout of $33.40 (¥5,000) for expenses related to eye treatments, including hospitalisation, surgery, or prescribed eye drops. 

It is valid for one year and available to individuals aged 18 to 59, with Johnson & Johnson covering the premiums.

Eligible customers can access the insurance by purchasing a specified amount of Acuvue lenses and enrolling through Johnson & Johnson's membership app, with claims submitted via smartphone. 

The initiative aims to encourage more young people in Japan to seek eye care, as many have reported neglecting treatment due to the inconvenience of hospital visits.