As a retail and consumer expert, I know that affordable eye care is a top concern for many shoppers. Vision insurance can make a big difference in your eye health budget. VSP and EyeMed are two of the biggest players in the standalone vision plan market.
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Over 50% of American adults use some form of vision correction, according to The Vision Council. And the Vision Service Plan (VSP) alone serves over 80 million members globally. EyeMed has over 50 million members, making it the fastest growing vision care company.
If you‘re one of the millions with VSP or EyeMed benefits, you may be wondering if you can use them at popular retailers like Walmart Vision Centers. After extensive research, I‘ve put together this comprehensive guide to answer all your questions, including:
- What vision services and products does Walmart offer?
- Does Walmart accept VSP and EyeMed insurance?
- How do out-of-network benefits work at Walmart?
- What exactly will VSP and EyeMed cover?
- How do you file an out-of-network claim?
- Is it cheaper to use insurance at Walmart or not?
- What are some alternatives to get the most value?
I‘ll also share some expert tips and lesser-known strategies to save on eyewear and exams at Walmart and beyond. By the end of this article, you‘ll be a savvier shopper when it comes to your vision care budget.
Why Vision Insurance Matters
First, let‘s talk about why having vision insurance is so important. Even if you have perfect 20/20 vision now, experts recommend getting a comprehensive eye exam every 1-2 years. These exams can detect early signs of serious eye diseases like glaucoma, cataracts, and macular degeneration.
Vision insurance typically includes coverage for an annual eye exam with minimal copay. Some stats to consider:
- Over 20.5 million American adults have a vision impairment, per the CDC
- 93 million adults are at high risk for vision loss, but only half have seen an eye doctor in the last 12 months
- The average cost of an eye exam without insurance is $95 at private practices
Regularly replacing your glasses or contacts is also key to clear and comfortable vision. Outdated prescriptions can cause eyestrain, headaches, and even make your vision worse. vision benefits usually include an allowance for new frames or contact lenses every 1-2 years.
Of course, if you require vision correction, you know how pricey eyewear can be, especially for designer frames or specialty lenses. The average cost of glasses is $196 a pair. For progressive or transitional lenses, that jumps to $500+. Contact lenses can run $200-800 annually. Insurance helps defray those costs.
Walmart Vision Center: Services, Products and Prices
Now that we‘ve established the value of vision insurance, let‘s take a closer look at what Walmart Vision Centers have to offer. With over 3000 in-store Vision Centers across the U.S., Walmart is a go-to for many shoppers‘ eye care needs. Their services include:
- Comprehensive eye exams by independent optometrists
- Contact lens exams and fittings
- Wide selection of eyeglasses and sunglasses
- Contact lenses (in-store and online)
- Free adjustments and cleanings
- Lens treatments (anti-reflective, scratch-resistant, etc.)
- Vision therapy for eye coordination issues
One of the biggest appeals of Walmart Vision Center is the affordable pricing. Here‘s a quick breakdown of average costs:
Service | Average Cost at Walmart
Eye examination | $75-100
Basic single-vision lenses | $39-79
Basic frames | $49-200+
Contact lenses (per box) | $14-60
These prices are significantly lower than what you‘ll find at most private optometry offices. Walmart‘s frames start at under $10 and include their exclusive in-house brands as well as popular names like Ray-Ban, Armani Exchange, and DKNY.
"We are committed to providing our customers with access to quality eye health services and products at everyday low prices," said a Walmart Vision Center spokesperson. "Our goal is to be a one-stop-shop for busy families looking for value and convenience."
However, it‘s worth noting that Walmart Vision Center‘s prices are comparable to other large optical chains like America‘s Best and Eyemart Express. And warehouse clubs like Costco and Sam‘s Club often have even lower prices for exams and eyewear, along with low-cost annual memberships.
VSP and EyeMed: In-Network vs Out-of-Network Coverage
So where do VSP and EyeMed fit into the picture at Walmart Vision Centers? The key thing to understand is the difference between in-network and out-of-network coverage.
VSP and EyeMed each have an extensive network of both independent and retail vision providers across the country. These in-network locations agree to set pricing and offer the plan‘s full benefits to members. You‘ll usually pay less out-of-pocket and have claims processed automatically at point-of-sale.
Out-of-network providers, on the other hand, do not have a contractual agreement with VSP or EyeMed. If you choose to use your benefits at an out-of-network location like Walmart, a few key things to keep in mind:
- Not all services may be covered
- Expect to pay significantly more than in-network prices
- You may need to pay in full upfront
- You‘ll need to submit a claim form to get reimbursed
- Reimbursem*nt is limited to a set schedule of allowances
"Using in-network benefits offers the best value for our members," said a VSP spokesperson. "Our negotiated pricing ensures consistent savings. Plus we handle all the paperwork. For out-of-network claims, members may have more cost exposure."
An EyeMed representative also confirmed that members will maximize benefits by staying in-network as much as possible. "At an out-of-network provider like Walmart, the frame allowance will be lower. Certain lens enhancements also may not be covered. We recommend using our provider locator to compare your nearby in-network options."
What VSP and EyeMed Cover at Walmart Vision Centers
While Walmart is out-of-network for VSP and EyeMed, you can still use your benefits there if you have out-of-network coverage. According to the Walmart Vision Center website, they work with all insurance plans on an out-of-network basis.
However, coverage at Walmart will be significantly reduced compared to your in-network benefits. Here‘s a detailed breakdown comparing a basic VSP and EyeMed plan at in-network vs Walmart:
VSP | In-Network | Walmart (Out-of-Network)
Eye Exam | $15 copay | Up to $45 allowance
Frames | $150 allowance | Up to $70 allowance
Lenses (Single Vision) | $25 copay | Up to $30 allowance
Lenses (Bifocal) | $25 copay | Up to $50 allowance
Lenses (Progressive) | $25 copay | Up to $50 allowance
Contact Lenses | $150 allowance | Up to $105 allowance
Lens Enhancements | $15-25 copays | Not covered
Frequency | Exam/lenses every 12 months, frames every 24 | Same
EyeMed | In-Network | Walmart (Out-of-Network)
Eye Exam | $10 copay | Up to $40 allowance
Frames | $140 allowance | Up to $45 allowance
Lenses (Single Vision) | $25 copay | Up to $25 allowance
Lenses (Bifocal) | $25 copay | Up to $40 allowance
Lenses (Progressive) | $90 copay | Up to $55 allowance
Contact Lenses | $130 allowance | Up to $104 allowance
Lens Enhancements | $15-65 copays | Not covered
Frequency | Exam/lenses/frames every 12 months | Same
As you can see, the out-of-network allowances at Walmart are 50-70% lower than in-network for both providers. And important add-ons like anti-glare or photochromic lenses aren‘t covered at all. That means you‘ll have to pay any overage out-of-pocket.
For example, let‘s say you get an eye exam and a pair of progressive glasses at Walmart with EyeMed:
- Exam: You pay $75 upfront, get reimbursed $40, for a final cost of $35
- Frames: You choose $120 frames, pay in full, get reimbursed $45, for a final cost of $75
- Lenses: Basic progressives cost $160, you pay in full, get $55 back, for a final cost of $105
So your grand total is $215 out-of-pocket at Walmart after reimbursem*nt. For the same services in-network, you would only pay $100 ($10 exam + $90 lenses). The price difference is significant.
How to File Out-of-Network Claims for VSP and EyeMed
To use your VSP or EyeMed benefits at Walmart, you‘ll need to submit a claim form along with your itemized receipt to get reimbursed. Here are step-by-step instructions:
For VSP:
- Log in to your VSP account and click on "Submit Claim"
- Fill in the online form with your provider (Walmart), date of service, and patient info
- Check off the boxes for exam and materials
- Follow the prompts to upload a photo of your Walmart receipt
- Submit the claim and allow up to 10 business days processing
- Reimbursem*nt will be mailed or deposited into your account on file
For EyeMed:
- Log in to EyeMed.com and go to "File an Out-of-Network Claim"
- Download and print the claim form for your plan
- Fill out the form including your member ID, patient info, and provider details
- Attach a copy of your itemized Walmart receipt
- Mail or fax the form and receipt to the address provided
- Claims are usually processed within 14 days
- Reimbursem*nt check is mailed to your address on record
Some Walmart Vision Centers may be willing to submit the out-of-network claim on your behalf. It doesn‘t hurt to ask when you pay. Just be sure to get a copy of the receipt for your records in case any issues come up.
Is Using Insurance at Walmart Worth It?
Now for the million dollar question: Is it even worth using VSP or EyeMed insurance at Walmart considering the limited coverage? The answer depends on your individual plan, needs, and preferences. But in general, you‘ll get the best value by choosing an in-network provider.
Let‘s do some quick math. Say your VSP plan costs $15/month or $180/year. An exam plus glasses at an in-network doctor would cost you just $40. So your total annual cost is $220.
For the same services at Walmart, you‘d pay $215 out-of-pocket after reimbursem*nt (based on the earlier example), plus your $180 premium. That‘s $395 total, almost double the cost of staying in-network!
Of course, prices can vary widely based on your prescription and preferences. A single-vision pair with basic frames could end up being cheaper at Walmart than an in-network doctor. But for most people, the potential savings don‘t justify the extra hassle of out-of-network claims.
There are also some advantages of using in-network doctors beyond cost, such as:
- Guaranteed coverage for services and products
- Latest technology for exams and optical equipment
- Discounts on additional glasses, sunglasses or contacts
- Free adjustments, repairs, and cleanings
- Easier warranty claims if any issues come up
That‘s not to say you can‘t get great service at Walmart Vision Centers. Their optometrists are fully licensed and they offer a good selection of brands. Walmart is also open evenings and weekends for added convenience.
"For some of our patients, especially in rural areas, Walmart may be the only nearby option," said the VSP spokesperson. "We process out-of-network claims to expand access. But we do encourage members to use our in-network providers to get the most value from their benefits."
Other Ways to Save on Vision Care
Whether you opt to use your VSP or EyeMed benefits at Walmart or not, there are plenty of other ways to keep your costs down. Here are a few of my favorite tips as a consumer expert:
- Ask your eye doctor about manufacturer rebates on lenses, frames, or contacts
- Check your vision plan website for online retailers that accept benefits
- Use pre-tax flex spending (FSA) or health savings (HSA) dollars to pay for expenses
- See if your employer offers a discount vision plan as an alternative to insurance
- Shop around online to price compare frames and lenses
- Consider a second pair of low-cost glasses as a backup to your primary pair
- Negotiate prices with your optical store or eye doctor, it never hurts to ask
- Look for coupons, seasonal sales, and other special promotions
If you don‘t have vision insurance, Walmart may be one of your most budget-friendly options. Their Vision Center often runs promotions for deep discounts on eye exams or eyewear packages. Certain frames are always tagged at rock-bottom prices.
Another lesser-known way to save is a vision discount plan. These standalone plans aren‘t insurance but offer 15-60% off eye care services at certain providers. Most plans cost $10-20/month. Walmart accepts a few of these, including EyeMed Advantage, United Health Allies, and Coast to Coast Vision Plan.
The bottom line is, don‘t neglect your eye health because of cost concerns. Prioritize getting an annual exam to screen for issues. If you need glasses or contacts, shop around and consider all your options with and without insurance. A little legwork can add up to major savings.
Key Takeaways on Walmart and Vision Insurance
We covered a lot of ground in this article! Here are the key points to remember about using VSP and EyeMed benefits at Walmart Vision Centers:
- Walmart is considered an out-of-network provider for VSP and EyeMed plans.
- Most out-of-network benefits are much more limited than in-network coverage.
- Expect to pay more out-of-pocket at Walmart, even after reimbursem*nt.
- You‘ll need to submit an itemized receipt and claim form to get money back.
- In-network providers usually offer better value with lower costs and more perks.
- Alternatives to Walmart include discount vision plans, online retailers, and sales.
- Regular exams are crucial to your eye health, with or without insurance.
Ultimately, whether Walmart Vision Center is right for you depends on your unique situation and benefits. I recommend comparing all your local options before deciding. Call your insurance to verify coverage and network providers. Most importantly, don‘t put off getting an exam if you are having any vision issues. Your eyes will thank you!
