PEBB members NOT enrolled in Medicare have more vision coverage options for 2025.
Important Note: This change only applies to PEBB members not enrolled in Medicare. Vision coverage for Medicare retirees is not changing.
During open enrollment this fall, if you are not enrolled in Medicare, you will have a new opportunity: to choose your vision plan. The PEBB Program is giving you more choice by providing standalone vision plan options. This means your routine vision coverage will be separate from your medical coverage starting January 1, 2025. Treatment for medical conditions such as infection, eye diseases like glaucoma, and eye injuries will continue to be covered under your PEBB medical plan.
Members enrolled in Medicare will still have routine vision care covered by their PEBB medical plan.
What vision plan options will I have?
You will be able to choose from three vision plans:
- Davis Vision by MetLife
- EyeMed Vision Care
- MetLife Vision
Each plan will have a network of providers that offers services like routine eye exams, eyeglass frames and lenses, contact lenses, and discounts on treatments like LASIK. All plans will offer private practice optometrists and ophthalmologists in Washington State and nationwide, but each plan’s network will include different providers. These plans were chosen to cover as many counties in Washington as possible, but not all plans will have network providers in all areas. In addition to private practice locations, each plan will offer a selection of retail locations, such as Costco Optical, Walmart, Sam’s Club, America’s Best, Visionworks, LensCrafters, Pearle Vision, and Target Optical.
What should I think about when choosing a vision plan?
- Look at the plan’s network coverage to see if there are vision providers available in your area. If you already have a vision provider, be sure to check with the plan (not the provider) to see if the vision provider you want is in the plan’s network. You can call the vision plan’s customer service number or use their online provider directory.
- Look at the benefits and level of coverage each plan provides. Many of the benefits will be similar between plans, so think about what benefits you generally use to see which plan is the best fit for you.
What will it cost?
Employees: Like dental coverage, vision coverage is an employer-paid benefit. This means that employee subscribers will not pay a monthly premium for vision coverage, as long as their employer offers the benefit.
Retirees and PEBB Continuation Coverage subscribers: Like dental coverage, vision coverage will have a monthly premium if you choose to enroll. It was previously built into the medical coverage premium. Premiums for 2025 will be available in October.
When can I learn more?
Watch for more information about the options for your PEBB vision coverage as open enrollment comes closer. Plan comparisons and instructions for how to enroll will be posted on HCA’s website in October and mailed to you at least a month before open enrollment begins to ensure you have time to make an informed choice. The October For Your Benefit newsletter will also provide more information and resources.