If you have more than one vision plan available to you, or you are simply trying to understand what your current plan actually covers, it helps to see VSP, EyeMed, and HMSA side by side. All three are common in Honolulu, but they are not the same, and knowing the differences can save you money on your next exam or new glasses.
How These Three Plans Work
VSP (Vision Service Plan) is a standalone vision insurance provider. Most VSP plans cover a routine eye exam with a low or no copay, plus an allowance toward frames or contact lenses on an annual or every-other-year cycle, depending on your employer’s plan design.
EyeMed is also a vision insurance provider, and it often administers vision benefits on behalf of a medical insurance carrier, including HMSA. If your HMSA plan includes vision coverage, there is a good chance EyeMed is the company actually processing that benefit.
HMSA is a medical insurance carrier first. Some HMSA members have a vision benefit built into their plan and administered through EyeMed, while HMSA itself covers medical eye care, such as diabetic eye exams or glaucoma management, through your regular medical benefits.
In short, VSP is its own plan, HMSA is medical insurance that may include a vision benefit through EyeMed, and EyeMed is often the administrator behind the scenes rather than the plan you would recognize by name on your card.
Comparing Coverage at a Glance
- Routine eye exam: Covered under VSP, and under EyeMed if your plan includes vision benefits. Under HMSA, routine exams are typically the EyeMed-administered benefit, while medical eye exams fall under your HMSA medical coverage.
- Frame or contact lens allowance: VSP and EyeMed both typically include a dollar allowance toward eyewear, though the amount and frequency depend on your specific plan.
- Medical eye care: Conditions like diabetic eye exams, cataracts, or glaucoma monitoring are billed to medical insurance, such as HMSA, rather than a vision plan.
- Coverage frequency: Most vision plans renew annually or every other year for materials. Your specific plan documents will confirm which applies to you.
Coverage details vary widely by employer group, so these are general patterns rather than guarantees for your specific plan.
Which One Should You Use?
If you have more than one active plan, we can help you figure out which one gives you the most value for your visit, whether that means using your vision benefit for a routine exam and new glasses, or billing your medical insurance if you are being seen for a condition like dry eye or glaucoma. Bring all of your insurance cards to your appointment and our team will help sort out the details.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes. We accept VSP, EyeMed, and HMSA. If you are not sure what your plan covers, we are happy to verify your benefits before your visit.
Medical eye exams, such as those related to diabetes, glaucoma, or sudden vision changes, are typically billed to your medical insurance rather than your vision plan.
Bring every insurance card you have. Our team will check what is active and help you use the benefit that fits your visit.
Ready to Schedule?
Not sure which insurance to use for your visit? We are happy to help you sort it out before your appointment. Visit our insurance plans page for a full list of what we accept, or call or text us at (808) 949-2662.