Frequently Asked Questions - Vision

Q. Am I eligible to continue my vision coverage when I retire?

A. YES. You may continue your vision insurance for yourself and eligible dependents when you retire; however, if you terminate coverage, you cannot enroll at a later date. Note: To continue vision coverage you must also continue medical coverage.

Q. When can I enroll in the vision plan as an active employee?

A. You and your dependents may enroll in the vision plan when you first become eligible for health care benefits through the State, or you may elect to enroll during Open Enrollment.

Q. When can I enroll in the vision plan as a retiree, long-term disability, survivor or terminated vested subscriber?

A. As a terminated vested subscriber, you may enroll when you terminate employment. As a retiree, long-term disability or survivor subscriber, you and your eligible dependents may enroll when you are getting ready to retire or terminate employment. At the time of termination of state employment, you must be eligible to receive a monthly retirement benefit from either MOSERS or PSRS for State employment,

AND one of the following applies, you:

• Have had coverage through MCHCP since the effective date of the last Open Enrollment period.
• Have had other medical and/or vision insurance for the six months immediately prior to termination of state employment (proof of insurance including effective dates of coverage and termination date is required).
• Have had coverage since first eligible.

As a retiree or terminated vested subscriber, you can add dependent coverage if your dependent’s employer sponsored group coverage has ended due to termination of employment or termination of group coverage by the employer. This must be done within 60 days of the loss and provide proof that the coverage was in effect for at least 12 months immediately prior to the loss.

Q. Do I need to use a VSP provider?

A. NO. For maximum benefits, you should use a VSP provider. However, there are reduced benefits if you receive services from a non-network provider.

Q. Can I get a prescription filled at a VSP provider even though it was written by a non-network provider?

A. YES. You can take a prescription from a non-network provider to a VSP provider to have it filled As long as the doctor filling the prescription is comfortable that the prescription is valid.

Q. How do I cancel my vision coverage?

A. You may cancel your coverage during Open Enrollment for the change to be effective January of the following year. You can only cancel coverage during the year when you terminate your medical coverage, terminate employment or retire. Note: If you are only enrolled in the vision plan, you may only cancel coverage during the year if you terminate employment or retire.

Q. Will I receive an identification card from VSP?

A. NO. To make an appointment, call a VSP provider. The provider asks for your name and Social Security number and then calls VSP to verify your eligibility.

Q. If I elect VSP, will I still be eligible for my annual eye exam provided by my medical plan?

A. YES. You could have two eye exams covered per year.

Q. If my VSP provider detects a medical problem, will VSP cover treatments?

A. NO. If a medical problem is detected (i.e. Glaucoma, Cataracts, etc.) you need to consult your Primary Care Physician if required. If your medical plan does not require a PCP, consult a network provider in your medical plan.

Q. If I purchase frames and lenses at the same time, will I pay two $25 copayments?

A. No. You pay one $25 copayment if purchasing both frames and lenses at one time. Remember, frames are covered once every 24 months and lenses are covered once every 12 months.