Did you know an eye exam can help detect health issues such as high blood pressure, diabetes and more? Getting your annual eye exam is a priority, but how can you care for your eye health without breaking the bank? Vision insurance can help make your eye health costs more affordable.
VSP® Individual Vision Plans is one of the largest vision insurance providers in the United States, covering millions of Americans. But figuring out exactly where your VSP insurance is accepted can be confusing. This guide will walk you through how VSP vision insurance works, where it’s accepted, and how to get the most out of your vision plan benefits.
Where Is VSP Vision Insurance Accepted? Where Is VSP Not Accepted?
VSP is accepted at a wide variety of places including:
- Independent optometrists and ophthalmologists
- Certain private practices
- Regional eye care groups
- Some major chains (more on that below)
- Online at Eyeconic, the VSP in-network, online eyewear store
In total, VSP’s network includes over 39,000 providers nationwide, making it one of the most accessible vision insurance plans in the U.S.
VSP is not accepted at some large national retailers and optical chains. Always confirm with each provider to determine their in-network status or their participation in out-of-network benefits.
Retailers that may not offer in-network VSP benefits include:
- Costco Optical
- Walmart Vision Centers
- Sam’s Club Optical
- Target Optical (in most cases)
- LensCrafters (in most cases)
- Pearle Vision (some locations accept VSP)
- Warby Parker
- Zenni
Some of these retail locations have their own in-house insurance or discount plans. Even though you can still use VSP as an out-of-network benefit at some of these places, your reimbursement will be lower, and you’ll have to handle the paperwork yourself.
What Are Major Eye Care Chains That Accept VSP Insurance?
While VSP is more commonly accepted at in network independent optometrists, there are several retail and regional optical chains that do accept it. These include:
- America’s Best Contacts & Eyeglasses — Many locations accept VSP, especially for exams and eyewear.
- MyEyeDr. — This growing chain has many VSP-affiliated offices.
- Visionworks — Locations are in-network with VSP.
- EyeMart Express —Provider participation may vary.
- Shopko Optical — In select states, Shopko Optical accepts VSP plans.
- Eye Boutique and SVS Vision — Regional chains that partner with VSP.
However, because each optical location may operate under different ownership or franchise agreements, it’s always best to:
1) Call ahead to confirm if your VSP plan is accepted.
2) Use VSP’s “Find a Doctor” tool to verify participation.
Can I Use VSP Insurance Online?
Yes, VSP has partnered with several online retailers allowing you to use your vision plan benefits without visiting a brick-and-mortar office. You can use your benefits and shop online at Eyeconic.com, the VSP online eyewear store. You can buy prescription glasses, sunglasses, and contact lenses here using your VSP Individual Vision Plan benefits.
The Difference Between In-Network and Out-of-Network:
When it comes to using VSP vision insurance, one of the most important things to understand is the difference between in-network and out-of-network vision providers.
In-Network Vision Providers
These are eye doctors and vision centers that have partnered with VSP. They’ve agreed to offer services at pre-negotiated rates, which means you’ll typically pay less out of pocket. VSP directly coordinates with these providers, so the billing process is simpler for you. Routine eye exams, glasses, and contact lenses are all covered with better discounts and lower copays.
Out-of-Network Vision Providers
These are eye care professionals who don’t have a contract with VSP. While you can still see them for your eye care needs, you’ll have to pay the full cost up front and then submit a claim to VSP for partial reimbursement. Out-of-network reimbursements are usually lower, so you’ll end up paying more compared to sticking with an in-network provider.
What if My Eye Doctor Is Out of Network?
If your preferred eye doctor or vision center is not part of the VSP network, weigh the potential financial costs against your peace of mind. Here are some things to consider:
Check Reimbursement Rates: Visit VSP’s claim reimbursement FAQs or call their customer service to find out how much you’ll be reimbursed for out-of-network services. For example, an eye exam that costs $150 might only be reimbursed for $45.
Pay Upfront: You’ll likely need to pay for services out of pocket at the time of your visit.
Submit a Claim: Fill out a VSP out-of-network claim form, attach your itemized receipt, and mail or upload it to VSP. You can find the claim form on vsp.com.
While seeing an out-of-network doctor can be more expensive and involve extra paperwork, it might be worth it if you have a strong preference or limited access to in-network providers in your area.
How to Find a VSP Provider Near You
VSP makes it super easy to locate in-network providers with their online directory. There are over 39,000 providers in our national network!
- To begin, visit vsp.com.
- Click on “Find a Doctor” at the top of the homepage.
- Enter your ZIP code or city plus state.
- Use Advanced Search to filter by additional attributes, such as:
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- Office hours
- Evening or weekend appointments
- Option to schedule online
- Products or services
- Languages spoken and gender of provider
On the results view, you can also see provider reviews, office hours, and whether they offer evening or weekend appointments.
You can also call VSP customer service at 1-800-877-7195 for help locating an eye doctor near you.
How to Use Your VSP Vision Plan Benefits
Using your VSP insurance benefits is simple once you know your plan’s benefits and understand the process.
Steps to Use Your VSP Plan:
Confirm Your Coverage: Log in to your account at vsp.com to see what your plan covers (e.g., exams, lenses, frames, contacts).
Schedule an Appointment: Choose an in-network provider to get the most savings.
Let the Office Know You Have VSP: Most in-network offices can verify your benefits ahead of time.
Pay Only What You Owe: At the appointment, you’ll just need to pay your copay or any overage not covered by VSP.
No ID card is necessary, but you can print one from your VSP account if you want to carry it.
Save on Vision Care With VSP
Preventing vision loss is a commitment to your long-term health. Taking the time to have a comprehensive eye exam and update your corrective lenses can make a huge difference in your quality of life. And that’s made simpler with a vision insurance plan from VSP.
VSP vision insurance is widely accepted — with over 39,000 providers — and offers a solid range of vision benefits and advantages. There are many reasons to choose a vision plan from VSP! To get the most out of your plan:
- Stick with in-network providers whenever possible, and make sure you have the right vision insurance plan for you and your family.
- Use the VSP Find a Doctor tool to find a participating doctor or clinic near you.
- Take advantage of online options like Eyeconic, the VSP online eyewear store.
- Be aware of major retailers where VSP is not accepted or is considered out of network.
Whether you’re due for an annual eye exam or just need a new pair of glasses, knowing where to use your VSP benefits can help you save both time and money. Get started with VSP’s Individual Vision Plan Selector today.
Information received through VSP Individual Vision Plans’ social media channels is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, medical recommendations, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.
Reviewed by Dr. Valerie Sheety-Pilon:
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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