Last updated: September 6, 2024

Does the Postal Service Reform Act impact my coverage with BCBS FEP Vision?
No. The Postal Service Reform Act only impacts the coverage under the Federal Employees Health Benefit (FEHB) Program.

WHAT SETS US APART FROM OTHERS?
First and foremost, this is a Blue Cross Blue Shield product.  Our strong points are our customer service and network. As a name trusted for nearly 60 years, Blue Cross and Blue Shield care about you and your family’s overall health. That’s why we offer a supplemental vision plan, BCBS FEP Vision, to give you peace of mind about your family’s eye health.  We offer no copays for comprehensive vision care exams and our Exclusive Collection of frames. Our provider network offers access to over 175,000 eye care providers nationwide, including top national retailers and online retailers. Whether you’re beginning your first career, adding to your family, or planning for retirement, BCBS FEP Vision has you covered.

IS MY FAMILY COVERED?
We offer vision coverage to Active Federal Employees, Retired Federal Employees and their families, and if enrolled in a TRICARE Health Plan, Retired Uniformed Service Members, their families, as well as Dependents of Active-Duty Uniformed Service Members.

When you enroll in BCBS FEP Vision, you have a choice between three enrollment types, Self, Self + One, and Self + Family.

WHO’S ELIGIBLE?
Federal Civilians: BCBS FEP Vision is available to federal and U.S. Postal Service (USPS) employees, retirees, and dependents who are FEHB eligible.

You do not need to be enrolled in FEHB.

Annuitants receiving an immediate annuity are eligible for vision coverage.

Dependent children are covered until age 22.

Retired Uniformed Services: BCBS FEP Vision is available to retired uniformed service members, their families, and the family members of active-duty service members.

You must be enrolled in a TRICARE Health Plan to be eligible for vision coverage.

Dependent children are covered until age 21 (non-students) or 23 (full-time students).

Unmarried surviving spouses and eligible children/dependents of retired and active-duty uniformed service members can enroll.

DO YOU COVER DEPENDENTS TO AGE 26?
For dependents of federal employees, we cover up to age 22 (midnight of their 22nd birthday). The dependent age rule is set by OPM.  For the dependents of retired military personnel, we cover up to age 21. However, if the dependent is in school, we will cover up to age 23. Under certain circumstances, you may also continue coverage for a disabled child 22 years of age or older who is incapable of self-support.

IS THERE A WAY TO GET DEPENDENTS OVER AGE 22 COVERAGE AFTER THEY AGE OFF?
Unfortunately, our policy only covers up to age 22. You may call 1-800-441-BLUE (this is the BCBS National Information Center) or visit www.BCBS.com to see if they have a plan for you.

ARE SAME-SEX DOMESTIC PARTNERS/SPOUSES COVERED UNDER BCBS FEP VISION?
Domestic partners are not eligible regardless of sex. Spouses (including same-sex and common-law spouses) must be legally married regardless of the state of residence to be eligible for FEDVIP. The Federal Employees Dental and Vision Benefits Enhancement Act of 2004, codified at 5 U.S.C. §§ 8951-8992, limits coverage to spouses and children.

IF BOTH MY SPOUSE AND I HAVE SEPARATE VISION PLANS THAT COVER BOTH OF US WHICH ONE IS PRIMARY?
Because you would be the policyholder on our plan it would be primary for you and secondary for your spouse. Their plan would be primary for them and secondary for you.

I HAVE VISION COVERAGE FROM MY AGENCY, AND I’M ALSO ENROLLED IN BCBS FEP VISION, WHICH IS PRIMARY, AND CAN I HAVE BOTH VISION PLANS?
We do not coordinate benefits with non-FEHB health plans. Each vision option is to be used independently of one another.

When you visit a provider who participates with both your FEHB plan and your FEDVIP plan, and the FEHB plan provides routine vision care and services, the FEHB plan will pay benefits first. The FEDVIP plan allowance will be the prevailing charge in these cases. You are responsible for the difference between the FEHB and FEDVIP benefit payments and the FEDVIP plan allowance. We are responsible for facilitating the process with the primary FEHB payor.

WHAT TOOLS ARE AVAILABLE TO ME TO HELP ME DECIDE ON WHAT OPTION I SHOULD ENROLL IN?
We invite you to the BCBS FEP Vision virtual experience to learn about how your vision benefits and eye wellness are essential to your overall health! You can access the BCBS FEP Vision virtual experience by visiting www.bcbsfepvisionOS.com on your computer or mobile device. You will be able to sit back and enjoy BCBS FEP Vision’s video premiere as a VIP to learn about us as well as some of the great features included with your vision plan!

DO I SELECT THE HIGH OR STANDARD OPTION?
BCBS FEP Vision, has you covered. We offer two options to help you see clearly, High and Standard options. We can help you select the right option for you and your family with our product selection tool. Go to https://askblue.bcbsfepvision.com/

CAN YOU TELL ME WHERE EVENTS ARE BEING HELD IN MY AREA?
Yes, you can visit https://bcbsfepvision.com/events/ to find virtual and in-person BCBS FEP Vision events. 

I HAVE BCBS FEP VISION CURRENTLY, DO I NEED TO DO ANYTHING FOR OPEN SEASON ENROLLMENT, OR WILL IT AUTO-ENROLL FOR ME?
You do not need to do anything if you are choosing to keep your BCBS FEP Vision plan coverage.  Your enrollment will automatically continue year over year until you make a change through BENEFEDS.

HOW DO I ENROLL?
You must use BENEFEDS to enroll or change enrollment in a FEDVIP plan. BENEFEDS is a secure enrollment website (www.BENEFEDS.com) sponsored by OPM. If you do not have access to a computer, call 1-877-888-FEDS (1-877-888-3337), TTY number 1-877-889-5680. Monday through Friday, 9:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m. Eastern U.S. Time.  If you are outside of the U.S., you may call 1-571-730-5942, Monday through Friday, (9:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m. Eastern U.S. Time).  BENEFEDS will then forward your new information to BCBS FEP Vision. 

CAN I MAKE CHANGES AFTER I ENROLL?
Changes to your enrollment can be made through BENEFEDS if you have a Qualifying Life Event (QLE) or during Open Season. Each year, Open Season runs from the Monday of the second full work week in November through midnight the Monday of the second full work week in December.  Any changes made due to a QLE will be effective as of the next premium billing cycle.  Any changes made during Open Season will take effect as of the next January 1. 

IS THE PREMIUM DEDUCTED FROM MY PAYCHECK BI-WEEKLY PRE-TAX?
Yes, Federal employees automatically pay premiums through payroll deductions using pre-tax dollars. Annuitants automatically pay premiums through annuity deductions using post-tax dollars. Uniformed Service enrollees automatically pay premiums through payroll deduction or automatic bank withdrawal (ABW) using post-tax dollars.

WHEN DO PREMIUM DEDUCTIONS BEGIN?
If you sign up for a vision plan during Open Season, your coverage will begin on January 1, of the following year. Premium deductions will start with the first full pay period beginning on/after January 1.

HOW DO I ACCESS INFORMATION ONLINE?
To locate BCBS FEP Vision participating providers and benefits information online, please go directly to www.bcbsfepvision.com. This brings you to the BCBS FEP Vision home page. You do not need to be registered to access this area of the website which provides the ability to access provider locate, benefits information, rates, health, and wellness information as well as additional value-added benefits.

To obtain specific information for you and your covered dependents as validating enrollment, checking your eligibility, viewing paid claims and EOB, and downloading electronic ID cards.

Click on “Member Login” to bring you to the Member Login page.  

If you have already registered with us, enter your username and password. 

If you have not registered yet, then click on “Register” and follow the directions for access to the secure section of the website.

If you choose to register, the information you enter must match exactly with what we have on file for you, including your BCBS FEP Vision identification number. Once registered, your credentials can be accessed on the mobile app.

DO YOU HAVE A MOBILE APP?
Yes! Search the store for BCBS FEP Vision, available for Android and iOS.

The mobile app features include Finding an eye care professional, checking your eligibility & benefits, viewing your ID card, reviewing your claims & status, and other tools and resources.

Use the same username and password already established for the member portal or you can register as a new user.

WHO ARE THE PARTICIPATING PROVIDERS?
Our insurance is accepted by over 175,000 providers, including retailers MyEyeDr., Visionworks, LensCrafters, Costco, Walmart, Sam’s Club, America’s Best, Target Optical, Pearle Vision, Vista Optical in Select Military Exchanges, and Warby Parker to the network. To view all the eye care professionals in your area, visit us at https://bcbsfepvision.com/providers/

CAN I USE MY INSURANCE WHEN SHOPPING ONLINE?
Yes! You may use your in-network benefit with www.visionworks.com, www.glasses.com, www.1800contacts.com, www.befitting.com, and www.warbyparker.com.

Beginning Jan. 1, 2024, we have expanded our online network with two new retailers, www.lenscrafters.com  and www.targetoptical.com

DOES MY WHOLE FAMILY HAVE TO VISIT THE SAME PROVIDER?
You do not.  Dependents can visit different providers. For example, students who are away at school can locate a participating provider near them. 

WHAT IF MY PROVIDER IS NOT IN-NETWORK?
BCBS FEP Vision High Option Members have the option to use their benefit with a BCBS FEP Vision participating provider or visit a provider of your choice, pay in full, and file a claim for reimbursement of up to the scheduled maximum. If you receive eye care services outside of your network of BCBS FEP Vision participating providers, you can submit your claim electronically at www.bcbsfepvision.com or through the Mobile App or complete the Direct Reimbursement Claim form and send it to the address on the form.  A copy of your paid receipt can take the place of the provider’s signature.

NOTE: BCBS FEP Vision Standard Option members must receive eye care services with a BCBS FEP Vision participating provider, who will apply for the benefit at the time of the visit. There is no out-of-network reimbursement available with the BCBS FEP Vision Standard Option, except under certain circumstances.

WHAT INFORMATION WILL MY EYE DOCTOR NEED?
When scheduling your appointment with an in-network provider, it’s best to have your member ID number and the patient’s date of birth so they can quickly verify eligibility. You may also use the policyholder’s name, date of birth, and the state in which they live.

DO YOU HAVE PROVIDERS OVERSEAS?
Though no network providers are available overseas, we do provide coverage. Federal employees, Annuitants, Retired Uniformed Service members and their families, families of active-duty service members, and their dependents who travel or live outside the United States and Puerto Rico can receive BCBS FEP Vision international benefits.

DO YOU HAVE OPHTHALMOLOGISTS IN THE NETWORK?
Yes, though not as many as optometrists. Ophthalmologists are medical doctors (MDs), and though perform vision eye exams, they are also trained to diagnose all eye diseases as well as to surgically treat patients dealing with an ocular disorder or disease. Optometrists a vision doctors, who primarily focus on vision care and correction to a vision change diagnosis. Your BCBS FEP Vision program covers non-medical diagnosed vision exams. To locate an in-network Ophthalmologist / MD, look for the letters MD after the Dr’s within the provider locate, https://bcbsfepvision.com/providers/

To learn more regarding a medical diagnosis, see FAQ, “WHAT IF MY EXAM HAS A MEDICAL DIAGNOSIS?”

WHERE DO I FIND MY MEMBER ID NUMBER?
Your member number can be found on your Member ID Card or by calling us at 1-888-550-BLUE (2583).

DO I GET A MEMBER ID CARD? WHAT IF I LOSE IT?
All BCBS FEP Vision identification cards show only the policyholder’s name.  When your covered dependent visits a BCBS FEP Vision participating provider for eye care services, the provider will use the identification number from the card as well as the patient’s name and date of birth to verify eligibility to provide benefits. You can download an electronic ID card from the member portal or mobile app.

NOTE:  BCBS FEP Vision identification cards are sent when you initially join the program or as requested. Requests may be submitted by email or telephone.

WHAT ARE MY BENEFITS?
As a BCBS FEP Vision Member, you have access to the very best in vision care benefits including an annual vision care exam, frames, and lenses or contact lenses. Please see your vision brochure for the benefit details.

WHAT IS INCLUDED IN AN EYE EXAMINATION?
The vision care eye examination covered by your BCBS FEP Vision benefit yields a basic prescription for eyeglasses, and includes a refraction, basic glaucoma (puff-of-air) test, Dilated Retinal Examination (if professionally indicated), and a general overview of eye health.  This examination can detect a number of eye diseases, as well as signs of systemic conditions such as diabetes, thyroid disease, high blood pressure, and neurological impairments. Every vision care examination our providers administer is consistent with clinical guidelines published by the American Optometric Association and the American Academy of Ophthalmology.  

WHAT IS A DILATED RETINAL EXAM?
A Dilated Retinal Examination (DRE) is a critical diagnostic procedure in the detection and management of diabetes, glaucoma, hypertension, and many other ocular and/or systemic diseases (up to 30 altogether!). It can lead to higher quality patient care, improved lifestyle through early detection and intervention, and possibly lower your overall health care costs.

IS RETINAL IMAGING COVERED?
When available, as a BCBS FEP Vision Member, the participating provider will charge up to $39 for a retinal image.

WHAT IF MY EXAM HAS A MEDICAL DIAGNOSIS?
If your diagnosis is medical, the dr will bill your medical plan for the exam and BCBS FEP Vision for the refraction. You will be responsible for any medical office co-pays.

IS THERE ADDITIONAL COVERAGE FOR MEMBERS WITH A MEDICAL CONDITION? 
This benefit provides additional coverage to members who have been diagnosed with the following conditions: Diabetes, Hypertension, Kidney Disease, Dementia, Pregnancy, HNCRT (Head and Neck Cancer Patients with Radiation Therapy). In-Network Only- High Option and Standard Option One additional vision care exam is covered in full every calendar year. If the prescription changes, one additional pair of lenses is covered in full for High Option members, with a $10 copay for Standard Option members. The prescription must have changed at least 0.5 diopters or the seg height changed by at least a 5.0 millimeter, or the lens type changed, e.g. (from single vision to bifocal). Pre-authorization is required.

ARE MEDICALLY NECESSARY CONTACT LENSES COVERED?
Contact lenses may be determined to be medically necessary and appropriate in the treatment of patients affected by certain conditions. Clinical documentation is required from your doctor to support the medically necessary contact lens request. Contact lenses may be determined to be medically necessary for the treatment of specific eye conditions such as:

Keratoconus

High Ametropia

Anisometropia

Aphakia

Aniridia

Moderate to Severe Dry Eye Disease

Irregular Astigmatism

Having the diagnosis of a particular eye condition does not guarantee that the contact lenses would be determined to meet the criteria as outlined in the clinical guidelines.

An In-network provider will complete a prior approval form. For out-of-network services, please submit your Drs clinical documentation along with your claim form for review and reimbursement.

WHAT IS THE EXCLUSIVE FRAME COLLECTION?
The Exclusive Collection is a unique offering to BCBS FEP Vision members only and can be found in nearly 9,000 provider offices across the country. To view and virtually try on one of the 200 frames available in The Collection at no cost, click https://bcbsfepvision.com/frametryon.

WHAT LENS OPTIONS ARE AVAILABLE AND WHAT ARE THE COSTS?
We cover Crizal anti-reflective coatings, Eyezen digital lenses, Transitions, and Varilux Progressives at low or no out-of-pocket cost depending on your plan. Access this link for lens options definitions and cost https://bcbsfepvision.com/lenses/

DO I HAVE TO GET ALL SERVICES COMPLETED AT THE SAME TIME?
As a BCBS FEP Vision Member, you can get a vision care eye examination and shop for eyewear at different times and in different locations. For example, you may get your vision care examination from an eye care provider and then use your prescription to shop for glasses at an in-network retailer later within the same plan year.  

WHAT IF MY GLASSES BREAK?
All frames purchased in-network and crafted in our laboratory come with a one-year breakage warranty. If your glasses break, simply return them to where you purchased them – we’ve got you covered.

WHAT ARE THE DISCOUNTS FOR ADDITIONAL EYEWEAR?
All BCBS FEP Vision independent providers are required to extend a 20% discount to all members that purchase additional frames and/or spectacle lenses, and/or daily wear contact lenses, and a 10% discount when purchasing additional disposable contact lenses. This discount can either be in conjunction with their benefit (pair 2, 3, etc.) or at any other time. The materials portion of the member’s benefit does not need to be exhausted first for the member to receive this discount.

WHAT OPTIONS DO I HAVE FOR LASER VISION CORRECTION SERVICES?
The laser vision correction benefit allows members of BCBS FEP Vision to realize savings on the national average cost.  BCBS FEP Vision has partnered with QualSight, whose laser providers are credentialed according to NCQA standards and represent ophthalmologists and surgeons who use the latest, most advanced instrumentation.

If you are a candidate for laser vision correction, you will experience significant savings including 20% to 35% off the national average price of LASIK.

To learn more or to schedule a free LASIK consultation, please call Qualsight at 1 (855) 502-2020 or visit their website below. 

WHAT OPTIONS DO I HAVE FOR HEARING CARE SERVICES?
BCBS FEP Vision members have access to a hearing healthcare program through Your Hearing Network (YHN). Through YHN members have access to a network of licensed and credentialed audiologists/otolaryngologists for a savings of up to 40% off national average selling prices for brand-name hearing aids with the latest advanced technology, including Bluetooth® wireless capabilities, and rechargeable models with hands-free connectivity for smartphones.

For more information on hearing aid discounts or to schedule your appointment today, please call 1 (888) 809-0044 or visit davisvision.yourhearing.com.

ARE THERE ADDITIONAL DISCOUNTS AVAILABLE?
Yes! New discounts are available through Blue365®. Find out more at blue365deals.com/fep.

As a member of BCBS FEP Vision, you have access to exclusive health and wellness discounts through the Blue365® Program. BCBS FEP Vision offers this program at no cost to help you achieve your best health. Blue365 can be accessed at www.blue365deals.com and provides access to some of the industry’s best discounts including:

• Low-Cost Gym Membership – Low monthly gym membership with access to over 10,000 locations through Fitness your Way
• Fitbit Wearable Devices- Discounts on Fitbit’s entire suite of smartwatches and activity trackers, plus free shipping
• Gym shoes and athletic apparel – Discounts on Reebok and Sketchers
• Discount Drug Program – Save on drugs not covered under regular RX programs
• Hearing Aids- Discounts on hearing aids plus free batteries from various hearing aid companies including but not limited to Beltone and TruHearing
• Dieting and Healthy Eating – Discounts on Jenny Craig, Nutrisystem, and Sun Basket food delivery
• And other discounts on family travel, personal care, financial health, pet insurance, and much more!

ARE YOU ON SOCIAL MEDIA?
Yes, please Follow us @bcbsfepvision on Facebook and Twitter for the latest information happening at BCBS FEP Vision

WHAT ARE YOUR HOURS OF OPERATION?
Our customer contact center is open 7 days a week at convenient times. The operating hours are: 

EST
Monday – Friday 8 a.m. – 9 p.m.
Saturday – 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.

CST
Monday – Friday 7 a.m. – 8 p.m.
Saturday – 9 a.m. – 1 p.m.

MST
Monday – Friday – 6 a.m. – 7 p.m.
Saturday – 8 a.m. – 12 p.m.

PST
Monday – Friday 5 a.m. – 6 p.m.
Saturday – 7 a.m. – 11 a.m.

ARE YOU OPEN ON HOLIDAYS?
Yes, we are open on certain holidays

• Martin Luther King Jr. Day
• President’s Day
• Columbus Day
• Veterans Day