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Vision Insurance
Michael Jernigan, 25 Feb 2026

In‑Network vs. Out‑of‑Network Eye Care

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Most people assume that eye care is pretty straightforward. I mean, how hard could it be; you find an eye doctor, schedule an eye exam, pick out some glasses, and you’re done, right? And if you have vision insurance, it’s easy to assume where you go for eye care and eyewear doesn’t matter.

But these assumptions can make eye care complicated. And expensive.

That’s because where you go for eye care can dramatically affect how much you pay and how far your benefits stretch. For anyone looking for vision coverage, or trying to maximize the vision benefits they already have, the difference between “in-network” and “out-of-network” can make all the difference.

What “In-Network” Really Means and Why It Matters

Insurance can be complicated, but insurance networks are pretty simple: groups of providers who have agreed to work with insurance companies at pre-negotiated, rates. In other words, when you choose to see an eye doctor that’s “in-network” with your vision plan, you’re able to receive care and purchase materials at those pre-negotiated prices.

“Out-of-network” providers are a different story. They don’t have an agreement with your vision plan, so you’ll usually end up paying full retail price. And while your vision plan may still offer a partial reimbursement, it might only cover a small portion of the total bill, especially for lens enhancements or designer frames.

In other words, staying in-network isn’t just a buzzword. It’s about maximizing your vision benefits through coverage provided by your vision insurance company.

Cost Differences Between In-Network and Out-of-Network

Now that we’ve covered what in-network vs. out-of-network means, let’s look at how they play out in practical terms, through the lens of the Standard Plan from VSP® Individual Vision Plans:

Eye Exam

In-network: Your doctor bills VSP directly. You are only responsible for a small $15 copay.
Out-of-network: You are usually charged for the full cost of the exam upfront, which could cost up to $210 depending on location, exam type, and the technology used. Your plan may reimburse part of the cost, but you’ll need to cover the rest.

Frames

In-network: You can use your full frame allowance toward new frames. You’ll get a discount on any amount over that allowance , making designer or specialty frames more affordable.
Out-of-network: You pay full retail price. Without coverage, glasses frames can cost around $250.

Lenses

In-network: Single-vision or progressive lenses come with predictable copays, and upgrades are heavily discounted. Your doctor can guide you to the best lens enhancements for your lifestyle and prescription.
Out-of-network: Full retail cost applies, and upgrades like progressives or special coatings can be surprisingly expensive. Your plan may only reimburse a small fraction of the total cost.

Contacts

In-network: You get an allowance for contacts, plus savings on an evaluation and a fitting. Your in-network doctor can help you find contact lenses that fit your eyes and prescription well.
Out-of-network: You pay full retail price for contacts and may only be reimbursed a portion of the total.

It may not seem like much money now, but these differences really add up, often $200 to $400 per visit! So, go in-network to use your plan’s benefits to their fullest and you’ll avoid any unexpected costs.

VSP In-Network Eye Doctors Offer Quality Care

VSP has a large, national independent eye doctor network comprised of about 39,000 providers. So, they can take time to focus on you and your individual vision needs.

Many VSP providers also use advanced tools and equipment that aren’t available through online exam services. This means potential vision issues may be caught by your eye doctor earlier, and exams may be more precise. Other benefits of staying in-network can include:

Thorough comprehensive eye exams: Early detection of eye disease and other health conditions before symptoms appear.
More personalized recommendations: Lenses, coatings, and frames tailored to your lifestyle and vision needs.
More time with your eye doctor: Less rushed appointments, allowing thorough assessments and answers to your questions.
Expert lens and frame guidance: Recommendations that balance durability, comfort, and style for long-term use, and that work with your frame allowance.

At the end of the day, staying in-network can mean fewer surprises, support from your provider, and peace of mind knowing that your eyes are in the hands of professionals who prioritize your health.

What do in-network appointments feel like?

Your visit with an in-network eye doctor can help you get the care you need without added stress and cost you less out of pocket.

Convenience from the Start
With an in-network eye doctor, a lot of the logistics just work. Your copays are clear, forms are simple, and billing happens automatically, which means you spend less time wrestling with paperwork and more time getting your eyes checked.

Making the Most of Your Vision Benefits
Your doctor can work with you to stretch your vision plan farther. They’ll explain what your allowances cover, show you the options for frames and lenses, and make sure you don’t overspend on things you don’t need.

High Quality Frames and Lenses
From durable everyday frames to designer styles, in-network providers give you access to a wide range of eyewear within your frame allowance. And because your doctor understands your prescription and vision needs, they or their staff can help you find frames that are not just stylish, but also functional and comfortable.

Choosing an in-network provider is about a quality, hassle-free experience from beginning to end.

Maximize Your Benefits with a VSP Network Eye Doctor

Staying in-network means bigger savings, great care, smoother appointments, and more personalized guidance from doctors who take the time to know your eyes. It’s not complicated, but it is a lot to remember, especially when it comes to how all the savings add up! So, here’s a side-by-side cost snapshot of a VSP Individual Vision Plan Standard Plan versus no vision plan coverage:

In‑Network vs. Out‑of‑Network Eye Care

Ready to put your benefits to work? Find a VSP in-network eye doctor near you by simply entering your ZIP code to start maximizing your vision benefits.

This article was reviewed by Dr. Valerie Sheety-Pilon:

In‑Network vs. Out‑of‑Network Eye Care Dr. Valerie Sheety-Pilon is Vice President of Clinical and Medical Affairs at VSP Vison Care where she helps drive strategic initiatives aimed at raising awareness about vision, eye health and its connection to overall wellness, while providing insight into medical advancements that seek to benefit patient care. She also provides oversight of VSP programs to address gaps in care for some of the most high-risk populations, including those living with diabetes.

With more than two decades of experience as a Doctor of Optometry, Dr. Sheety-Pilon has dedicated much of her time to clinical research across numerous ophthalmic subspecialties and has an established history of helping patients through novel therapeutic agents and clinical adoption of transformative technology in the areas of digital health, pharmaceuticals, and medical devices.

Prior to joining VSP Vision in 2019, Dr. Sheety-Pilon served as Adjunct Clinical Professor at Illinois College of Optometry, held various executive positions within the eye health industry, and has extensive experience managing and practicing within an ophthalmology and optometry practice.

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