Hi John,
Subject: So much depends on a person's perspective - and how I decided "issues" in my life.
I have NO DESIRE to wear an "astigmatic" lens - when I objectively read 20/20 (or better) on my "home" Snellen. I have no desired to be "prescribed" an astigmatic lens in an OD's office - because he might "detect" a slight amount, and judge that I would be "better off" wearing an astigmatic lens - when I have proven naked-eye 20/20. This is why I don't bother checking for any NORMAL astigmatism I *MIGHT* have. There is yet another reason.
1) It might be true that ONE eye has SLIGHT astigmatism. But if it does not prevent 20/20 - why should I be concerned with it? This is indeed a personal judgment of mine - as long as I protect my distant vision - by wearing a "plus" for near.
2) Even WITH slight astigmatism in ONE or BOTH eyes - it turns out that the BRAIN "levels out" any slight "imperfection" in each eye. Thus, astigmatism, is simply not a concern - since I have 2020 with both eyes open.
3) The OD measurement is VERY DIFFICULT. Most of the time they either get it WRONG, or excessive. I truly don't trust an OD to make this measurement. It is pure "cosmetic" and NOT NECESSARY AT ALL. It accomplishes no purpose at all - and NEVER helps my distant vision.
These are my PERSONAL reasons why I prefer 20/20 with no lens. Even if an astigmatic lens gave me 20/18 - I still would not wear it. But this is indeed a wise personal choice. I am not suggesting that you do - what *I* do.