While Duke's medical plans provide coverage for an annual eye exam, Duke also offers a nationwide vision care plan to manage the cost of eyeglasses and contact lenses, as well as eye examinations. You do not need to be enrolled in any of Duke's medical plans to participate in the vision plan. You are eligible to participate in the vision plan if you are a regular employee scheduled to work at least 20 hours per week.
Vision Plan Coverage through UnitedHealthcare Vision
The vision plan provides coverage for prescription lenses and frames, contact lenses (in lieu of eyeglasses), and a complete annual eye exam for a low monthly premium.
Under the plan, you can visit an optometrist or ophthalmologist within the UnitedHealthcare Vision network or you may choose to visit an out-of-network provider, which may result in higher out-of-pocket costs. If you visit an out-of-network provider,
you must submit a claim to be reimbursed. The vision plan covers:
- One vision exam every 12 months ($20 copay in-network)
- Eyeglass lenses or contacts once every 12 months ($20 materials copay)
- Frames once every 24 months (covered in full up to $150 allowance)
Further details about the vision plan are available below and at Vision Insurance. If you have questions about the vision plan or would like to find a network provider, you may call (800) 638-3120 or visit the Find a Network Provider page.
Note: The Duke Eye Center is not a participating member of the UnitedHealthcare Vision network for eye exams. However, your Duke medical plan provides coverage for an annual eye exam at the Duke Eye Center and you are able to use the vision plan with out-of-network providers. Additionally, the NCEENT (NC Eye, Ear, Nose & Throat) office located in the Duke Eye Center is a network provider with optical services only and accepts Duke vision insurance for the purchase of frames and lenses.
UnitedHealthcare Vision (vision)
myuhcvision.com
Toll-free (800) 638-3120
Eyeing the Costs
Below is an at-a-glance comparison of how your out-of-pocket expenses may vary depending on whether you have vision plan coverage.
| Service | For a person purchasing with Duke's Vision Insurance at a network provider | For a person purchasing at a retail chain with no insurance |
|---|---|---|
| Comprehensive eye exam with refraction | $20 | $192 |
| Materials co-pay | $20 | $0 |
| Designer frames (up to $150) | $0 | $150 |
| Progressive bifocal lens with anti-reflective coating | $0 | $545 |
| Photochromic lenses - tint to darken lenses in sunlight | $0 | $90 |
| Annual premium ($115) for individual | $115 | $0 |
| TOTAL ANNUAL OUT-OF-POCKET EXPENSE | $155 | $977 |
Source: UnitedHealthcare