8 Things to Know When Choosing a Vision Plan

Vision insurance can be complex, so we're here to help. A little information can go a long way to helping you pick the vision plan that's best for you. Below you'll find explanations of plan features to pay attention to. Click each tile below for feature info.

Copay

This is what you pay out-of-pocket when you get services. So when you get an exam, you pay your copay and your plan covers the rest.

Frame Allowance

This is the portion of your frame cost that's covered before you pay anything. So if you have a $150 allowance and pick a frame that's less than $150, you pay nothing. Choose a $200 frame and you'll pay $50 at the doctor's office (the amount over the allowance).

A Comprehensive Exam

Not all exams are equal. Make sure the covered exam is comprehensive, and not more of a screening than a full exam. All VSP doctors will give a WellVision^® exam because it's not just about how well you see, but how healthy your eyes are and whether there are signs of other health conditions not having to do with the eyes. Don't settle for anything less than a comprehensive exam. You'll probably also want a low copay.

Doctor Network

If you want to keep your doctor, check the doctor network of your plan to make sure it will be accepted. If you're not already set on a doctor, check the network to make sure you have options near you. Some providers will even show what frame brands are carried by their network doctors. This can give you a sense of the breadth of selection. With the largest national network, VSP has many convenient, quality locations.

Lens Enhancements

Typical lens enhancements include scratch resistance, anti-glare, UV protection, impact resistance, no-line multifocal, light-to-dark tint to name a few. The cost of these can add up so know your coverage. Your plan will either cover some of these after a set copay or will have a maximum amount that you'll pay. Either of these can save you hundreds off walk-in prices.

Frequency

You'll want to check if your plan covers an exam every 12 months or every 24 months. Likewise, check if you get glasses every year or every two years.

Service

The last thing you want is a hassle when you actually go to use your benefits. So know your provider's reputation. One good gauge is customer satisfaction ratings, such as VSP being consumers' number one choice in vision.

Contact Lens Coverage

If you wear contacts, check if the frame allowance can be used toward contacts. Also, look at what coverage or discount you get on the contact fitting and evaluation.

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