Greetings Southern Ute tribal membership,
The Tribal Health Department would like to continue the effort to help individuals understand the sometimes-complex world of health. This article will cover some, but not all basic information of the vision coverage within the department.
All enrolled Southern Ute tribal members have a vision benefit plan that covers many typical vision expenses. This plan is called the Vision Service Plan (VSP) and it became effective through Tribal Council approval in April 2014. The expenses included with VSP are annual eye exams, retinal screenings, contact lenses, and frames for glasses and their lenses. Each member has a $150 annual limit on frames OR contacts. That annual date depends on when your last exam was, for example if you had one in March of 2019 then you are eligible for you next exam and materials in March of 2020.
It is important to utilize an in-network VSP provider to avoid additional out-of-pocket costs associated with your exam and materials. You may locate an in-network VSP provider by going to www.VSP.com and clicking on the “Find a Doctor” tab. You will then put in your zip code and it will populate a list of all the VSP providers that are in-network in your area. There are NO cards associated with VSP. If your provider is in-network they will have access to the VSP system and will be able to locate you and your benefits by utilizing your name, date of birth (DOB) and social security number (SSN) if need be.
Laser vision correction or Lasik is not a covered benefit under the vision plan. There is an average discount of 15% off the regular price or 5% off the promotional price for Lasik and these are only available from contracted facilities. There is also a 30% savings on additional glasses and sunglasses, including lens enhancements, from the same VSP provider on the same day that you receive your annual eye exam or you can get a 20% discount from any VSP provider within 12 months of your last annual eye exam.
If you have any questions about your benefits or providers and the Tribal Health Department is unavailable during normal business hours you may also contact the VSP customer service line by dialing 1-800-877-7195 or going to their website at www.vsp.com.
Thank you for your time and please look forward to the next article summarizing your dental benefits through Delta Dental. The THD Benefits Team is continuing to work through the tribally issued “Stay at Home” Order. Office phones are forwarded to assist the tribal membership between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. Monday through Friday. We hope that each and every one of you are continuing to stay safe and follow the public health orders issued to help slow or stop the spread of COVID-19.