Federal Vision Insurance: Coverage and Benefits Explained

Most Americans obtain their health insurance through their employer or through government-run programs such as Medicare and Medicaid. However, for those who do not have access to employer-sponsored insurance or government programs, there are other options available – including federal vision insurance.

What is Federal Vision Insurance?

Federal vision insurance is a type of insurance that provides coverage for vision-related expenses, such as routine eye exams and prescription eyeglasses or contact lenses. This type of insurance is available for federal employees, retirees, and their dependents.

The federal government offers two different vision insurance programs: the Federal Employees Dental and Vision Insurance Program (FEDVIP) and the Federal Employees Health Benefits (FEHB) program.

FEDVIP Vision Insurance

The FEDVIP program provides comprehensive vision insurance coverage for federal employees, retirees, and their eligible dependents. The program is administered by the Office of Personnel Management (OPM), and offers a range of plan options from several different insurance carriers.

With FEDVIP vision insurance, you can choose from a network of providers or go out-of-network to receive care. You can also choose to enroll in a high or low option plan, depending on your budget and needs.

Some of the benefits of FEDVIP vision insurance include:

FEHB Vision Insurance

The FEHB program is another option for federal employees, retirees, and their eligible dependents to obtain vision insurance coverage. Unlike FEDVIP, FEHB vision insurance is included as part of a larger health insurance plan.

With FEHB vision insurance, you can go to any provider that accepts your insurance plan. However, your coverage may differ depending on whether the provider is in-network or out-of-network.

Some of the benefits of FEHB vision insurance include:

FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions about Federal Vision Insurance

What is covered by federal vision insurance?

Federal vision insurance typically covers an annual eye exam to check your vision and eye health, as well as the cost of prescription eyewear (such as eyeglasses or contact lenses) and some plans may cover the cost of refractive surgery.

Who is eligible for federal vision insurance?

Eligibility for federal vision insurance varies depending on the program. FEDVIP vision insurance is available to federal employees, retirees, and their eligible dependents. FEHB vision insurance is available to federal employees, retirees, and their eligible dependents as part of a larger health insurance plan.

How do I enroll in federal vision insurance?

To enroll in FEDVIP vision insurance, you must be a federal employee, retiree, or eligible dependent during the open enrollment period. You can enroll online through the FEDVIP website or by contacting the insurance carrier directly.

To enroll in FEHB vision insurance, you must be a federal employee, retiree, or eligible dependent and enroll in a FEHB health insurance plan that includes vision coverage. You can enroll during the open enrollment period or if you experience a qualifying life event.

How much does federal vision insurance cost?

The cost of federal vision insurance varies depending on the program and the plan you choose. With FEDVIP vision insurance, you can choose between high and low option plans, and the cost will vary accordingly. FEHB vision insurance is included as part of a larger health insurance plan, so the cost will depend on the plan that you choose.

Can I see any provider with federal vision insurance?

With FEDVIP vision insurance, you can choose to see an in-network or out-of-network provider and still receive coverage for eligible services. With FEHB vision insurance, your coverage may differ depending on whether the provider is in-network or out-of-network.

What is the difference between FEDVIP and FEHB vision insurance?

The main difference between FEDVIP and FEHB vision insurance is how the insurance is obtained. FEDVIP vision insurance is a standalone insurance program that provides comprehensive vision coverage for federal employees, retirees, and their eligible dependents. FEHB vision insurance is included as part of a larger health insurance plan and may have different coverage limitations and costs.

Conclusion

If you are a federal employee, retiree, or eligible dependent, federal vision insurance is a great option to consider for coverage of important vision-related expenses. Whether you choose FEDVIP or FEHB vision insurance, make sure to research the plan options and compare costs and benefits before making your decision.