Playing the vision insurance game and probably losing
Posted By RichC on January 13, 2022
“Eye” do it every year (a very Dumb Dad Joke #DDJ) … I make my eye appointment to get my updated prescription from my optometrist (OD) 
and contemplate ordering contact lenses from them or a less expensive retailer … just as I’ve been doing since the days of the “cooker” (only those of a certain age will understand that). Each time debate just how picky to be when negotiating a lower price and if it is worth even paying for our VSP insurance each month (that discount vs paying a “cash price” based on who is “in-network” or out-of-network). Once I think I have it figured out, it comes back to bite me with a surprise charge, higher price or rejected rebate form “for not ordering from the eye doctor writing the prescription.”
But … it is usually worth a $100 or more dollars each year to purchase separately even with a vision plan that negotiates rates with the “in-network” provider. This year it required way too much time, a rejected, then approved after complaining, rebate and filling out the out-of-network reimbursement forms.
What I can report is that my eye exam was in September and my final out-of-network check just arrived in January 2022 … 4 months and after 3 phone calls and 2 USPS form submissions (they only do postal mail) … and I’m still waiting on my once rejected then approved Bausch & Lomb VISA rebate card to arrive. Ugh.
