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Welcome to the CBC Health Insurance
Marketplace for Costco Members
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Individual Vision Insurance

Ameritas vision plans include benefits for annual eye exams and prescription glasses or contact lenses, with access to leading vision networks in most states.


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What is Vision Insurance?

Vision insurance helps cover costs for eye care, including routine exams, prescription glasses, contact lenses, and sometimes LASIK. Unlike medical insurance, vision plans don’t offer unlimited benefits or cover everything after a deductible; they typically provide discounts for an annual premium.



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Affordable  Routine Eye Care Services

Vision insurance helps reduce the cost of routine eye exams and checkups  making essential eye care more affordable.
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Lower Costs on Vision Benefits  

Vision insurance can cut down your out-of-pocket expenses for eye care and even corrective procedures such as LASIK.
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Maximize Savings on Corrective Lenses

Many plans cover or offer significant discounts on corrective lenses, including glasses and contact lenses, ensuring ongoing vision correction needs are met at a lower cost.



 

 

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What is covered by a vision insurance plan?  

The CBC Health Insurance Marketplace for Costco members provides you Vision Plan options with competitively priced  plans as well as bundled insurance options with certain medical plans. Plans vary so carefully review each vision insurance plan to understand coverage. Most plans cover:
  • Help Finding The Right Optometrist
  • Routine eye care, including annual exams
  • Preventive care
  • A portion of prescription eyewear costs

 

You may need to pay part of the cost for glasses and contacts. Some plans also offer discounts on LASIK and other vision correction surgeries. Eye diseases or chronic conditions, like cataracts and glaucoma, are usually covered by medical insurance rather than vision insurance. Click here to see the vision plan Limitations and Exclusions.

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How do Vision Plan Types Differ?


Plan Type Provider Choice Cost Differences
PPO (Preferred Provider Organization) Can use both in-network and out-of-network providers; in-network costs less Higher premiums, but more flexibility in choosing providers
HMO (Health Maintenance Organization) Must use in-network providers; requires referrals for specialists Lower premiums but limited provider flexibility and requires referrals
POS (Point of Service) Can use in-network or out-of-network providers, but referrals may be required for specialists Premiums and costs between HMO and PPO; more flexibility than HMO but less than PPO
Discount Plans Discounted rates at participating providers; no network restrictions Lower membership or subscription fees; pay discounted rates directly at time of service

 

Shop Vision Plans

 

 

 

Vision Insurance FAQs


  • What is vision insurance?

    Answer
    Vision insurance helps cover the cost of eye care services such as eye exams, eyeglasses, contact lenses, and sometimes corrective surgeries like LASIK.
  • What does vision insurance typically cover?

    Answer
    • Annual eye exams
    • Prescription eyeglasses or contact lenses
    • Discounts on corrective surgeries (like LASIK)
    • Some plans may offer coverage for lens enhancements (e.g., anti-glare, progressive lenses).
  • What’s the difference between vision insurance and medical insurance?

    Answer
    Vision insurance typically covers routine eye care, while medical insurance covers eye care related to eye diseases, injuries, or surgeries due to health conditions (e.g., glaucoma, cataracts).
  • How often can I use my vision benefits?

    Answer
    Most vision insurance plans allow for an annual or biennial eye exam and provide a set allowance for glasses or contacts during the same period. The frequency of benefits usage depends on the specific plan details.
  • How often can I get new glasses or contacts with vision insurance?

    Answer
    Most plans offer new glasses or contacts every 12 to 24 months, but it varies by provider and plan.
  • Do I need vision insurance if I don’t wear glasses or contacts?

    Answer
    Yes, regular eye exams are important for detecting conditions like glaucoma or cataracts, even if you don’t need vision correction.
  • How much does vision insurance cost?

    Answer
    The cost varies depending on the provider and plan, but it generally ranges between $5 to $15 per month for individuals.
  • Can I use vision insurance for LASIK surgery?

    Answer
    Some vision insurance plans offer discounts on LASIK or other corrective surgeries, but it’s usually not fully covered.
  • What happens if I don’t use my vision benefits?

    Answer
    Most vision benefits don’t roll over to the next year, so it's a "use it or lose it" scenario for many plans
  • Do I need to see a specific eye doctor?

    Answer
    Most plans have a network of preferred providers, but you can often visit an out-of-network provider for reduced benefits.
  • Do I need to have an eye exam?

    Answer
    Routine eye exams are key for keeping your overall health in check. Your doctor can spot vision issues and signs of serious conditions like glaucoma, cataracts, diabetes, and even cancer. These exams also help you get the right prescription for glasses and contacts.
  • What is a contact lens exam?

    Answer
    During a contact lens exam, your doctor will check your vision with contacts to ensure they fit properly. An improper fit can impact your eye health, so finding the right fit is crucial for comfort and effective vision correction.
  • How do you choose a vision insurance plan?

    Answer
    Start by assessing your current and future eye care needs. Since vision plans vary, choose one that matches your needs and budget. If you have an eye doctor, make sure they’re in-network to keep costs low.
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