Are you interested in learning more about Vision Service Plan (VSP)?
Maybe you have VSP and are looking for an eye doctor in the Charlotte or Asheville, NC area.
Regardless of your situation, here are the most frequently asked questions we receive about VSP.
Note: At Northlake Eye, our eye doctors proudly accept a variety of vision AND medical insurances (you can see a full list here).
What is Vision Service Plan (VSP)?
VSP is one of the largest vision care plans for individuals and businesses in the United States. The company has been around for over 60 years and prides itself on helping you see well, stay healthy, and maximize your individual potential.
In addition, VSP can offer you significant savings on eye exams, contact lenses, and glasses. They also offer discounts on vision correction surgery (such as LASIK and PRK).
How do I locate a VSP provider?
With over 36,000 providers, VSP has the largest independent eye care provider network in the United States.
To find a VSP provider, pull up the VSP Eye Doctor Locator to research providers in your area. There you can specify a location, doctor, office name, preferred language, gender, type of doctor, frame brand, and premier status.
What if my provider is not in-network with VSP?
Truth be told, you are able to see any provider you would like. However, if the provider is out-of-network, you may have to pay in full at the time of service and then submit your claim on your own for reimbursement.
At Northlake Eye, we gladly accept VSP (even though we're out of network). You will have the same exam co-pay as going to any other doctor's office and all paperwork will be filed by our eye care team.
How much does VSP insurance cost?
VSP can vary in cost, especially if you are signing up as an individual or with a company. In general, company-sponsored plans tend to cost you (the employee) a lot less.
Also, there are an array of plans to sign up for which range $13/month for an individual standard plan to $80/month for a premium family plan.
Fortunately, you can sign-up online without any enrollment fees and start taking advantage of VSP benefits within 5 business days.
What does VSP cover?
Unfortunately, eyeglasses and contact lenses can be expensive! This is especially the case when you factor in certain features like UV protection, anti-glare, photochromic lenses, and premium progressives.
Depending on the VSP plan you select, you could have these important add-ons covered at a discount or in full. This helps you get the best bang for your buck without hurting your budget.
Eye exams
Did you know VSP has a provider network of over 36,000 doctors in the United States? As a result, they can provide you with access to high-quality eye care at a fraction of the cost.
In fact, with VSP, there is a good chance you’ll only be responsible for only a small copay for your eye exam.
Frames
Depending on your plan, VSP may offer you an allowance (or a percentage discount) towards glasses. Furthermore, some plans provide you with an additional dollar amount off certain frame brands.
According to VSP, typical annual savings for their standard plan is over $200!
Contact Lenses
Coverage of contact lens evaluations and contact lens materials are another feature of most VSP plans. With this in mind, you will have a copay for your contact lens evaluation as well as a specific allowance to use towards purchasing contacts.
Note: As with all other vision insurances, you will have to choose to use your benefits towards glasses OR contact lenses.
On the VSP website or mobile app (Apple or Android), you are conveniently able to access all of your benefits. In addition, you are able to access special offers and gift card giveaways.
RELATED: Learn about EyeMed vision insurance
Are medically necessary contacts for dry eye or keratoconus covered by VSP?
If you have advanced dry eye or keratoconus, your optometrist may recommend medically necessary contact lenses.
Fortunately, some VSP plans will cover your medically necessary contact lens evaluation and contact lenses in full. If they don’t, you will be responsible for the service and contact lenses out of pocket.
Does VSP cover diabetic eye exams?
Yearly comprehensive eye exams are very important for your overall eye health and wellness. This is especially the case if you have diabetes!
Unfortunately, diabetic retinopathy is the leading cause of blindness in individuals 40-65. As a result, early detection through an annual eye exam is very important.
Fortunately, some VSP plans cover a diabetic eye exam. Check your benefits to see if this is an added feature.
Conclusion
In the end, taking care of your eye health and wellness should be at the top of your health priority list! With its large provider network, exceptional coverage, and extensive member resources, VSP Vision Insurance is one of the best vision insurances on the market!
Interested in scheduling an eye exam with one of our optometrists? Give us a call or simply schedule online: Northlake Mall | Concord Mills | Biltmore Park | Asheville Mall