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Vision plans

With the largest vision network in California, Blue Shield's Vision plans provide more access, and convenience for a better value to our members

Our vision plan members have access to one of the largest networks* of ophthalmologists, optometrists, and opticians in California and nationwide. Many of these providers are conveniently located at retail locations such as LensCrafters, Target Optical, Walmart, Sam’s Club, and Costco. Multiple locations make it easier and more convenient for members to see an eye doctor of their choice and to purchase frames, lenses, and contacts.

Groups with 101 or more eligible employees can purchase vision coverage with or without Blue Shield medical coverage. For even greater flexibility employers can offer voluntary vision coverage – an even more affordable way to offer vision coverage – with no minimum employer contribution.

Bundle and save a bundle with Benefit Solutions

With Benefit Solutions, the more you add, the more you save. Our improved bundling program now applies to groups of 101 up to 1,000.
Your clients can save up to 3% on their medical rate by bundling dental, vision, and life insurance with their medical benefits.

  • Choose dental and save 2%
  • Add a minimum of $25,000 in life insurance and save an additional 0.5%
  • Add vision, and save another .5%

Learn more about Benefit Solutions (PDF, 378 KB)

The value of vision with Blue Shield of California

All vision plans include standard and premium progressive lenses along with anti-reflective coating and photochromic lenses.

Contact lens plans

Blue Shield offers vision plans with both frame and contact lens allowances within the same benefit period on select plans. In addition to their frame allowance, contact lens plans cover $130 or $150 in materials and a standard fitting and evaluation with in-network providers.

Custom options

Groups with 101 or more eligible employees may work with their Blue Shield representative to customize a vision plan to fit the needs of their employees.

Rate cap

All new and renewing groups adding new vision coverage receive a 2% rate cap for each of their next three renewals on their vision coverage, giving them added financial predictability for budgeting and planning.

Online eyewear

Members have access to a variety of online options, including lenscrafters.com, targetoptical.com, ray-ban.com/insurance, glasses.com, and contactsdirect.com.

Coverage for sunglasses

Members who have had PRK, LASIK, or custom LASIK vision correction surgery can use their frame allowance toward any pair of sunglasses. All they need to do is see a network provider and provide proof of surgery or substantiate the surgery through an eye exam.

Blue Shield member portal and app

Members can get easy access to benefit and coverage information, claims payment, and status updates, and digital ID cards through blueshieldca.com when they register their account. For on-the-go access, members can download the Blue Shield app on their mobile device.

Wellness offers and discounts

Blue Shield offers a wide range of programs that can help members save money and get healthier. In addition to our Discount Vision Program network, which offers a 20% savings on many vision materials and services, members can get discounts on:

  • Laser vision correction surgery (discounts through the U.S. Laser Network, which gives members expanded access to approximately 600 provider locations nationwide, including preferred providers like LasikPlus, TLC Laser Eye Centers, and The LASIK Vision Institute)

Hearing discounts

  • Hearing aid discounts are available through Amplifon, including up to 64% off hearing aids at 1,000s of locations nationwide** 
  • Custom hearing solutions – A wide choice of products from the industry’s leading brands
  • Risk-free trial – Find your right fit by trying your hearing aids for 60 days
  • Follow-up care – Ensures a smooth transition to your new hearing aids
  • Battery support – Battery supply or charging station to keep you powered
  • Warranty – Three-year coverage for loss, repairs, or damage
  • Financing – No interest for those who qualify

See the value

Help your clients see the value that vision coverage can bring them in the Look into your health infographic (PDF, 385 KB).

* Vision plan providers are available through a contracted vision plan administrator. Underwritten by Blue Shield of California Life & Health Insurance Company (Blue Shield Life).

** Average member savings off manufacturer’s suggested retail price. Your actual savings may vary. See plan for details.