How to Start Using VSP

Note that City employees have access to two versions of VSP, SDPEBA’s Two Pair Plan and the City’s one pair Plan. This article is using information about the Two Pair Plan, but can still be used for other versions of the plan.

Once you’re enrolled, the first step is to book your appointment and head to your doctor. The most important thing is to make sure you’re going to an in-network doctor or glasses retailer for your exam and lenses/frames. You can easily do this by clicking here.

With SDPEBA’s version of the VSP plan you can get one basic exam and eye care screening a year for no cost. This is great as most doctors recommend getting an annual eye exam even if you don’t wear glasses as it screens for glaucoma, diabetes, muscle weakness, and much more. You’ll also need to get an eye exam in order to get prescription glasses in the first place.

After you get your eye exam, that’s when the whole world opens up. Most optometrists sell frames and lenses at their office, but you can always take your prescription elsewhere. There are great online retailers (like the one on VSP.com) and other stores (such as Costco) that will gladly sell you contacts or frames. Check out our article on online retailers by clicking here.  

With the SDPEBA plan you have two separate allowances you can use to get two pairs of glasses, two sets of contacts, or one of each. Information about the allowance can be found here or in the most recent Benefits Guide.

Ultimately, once you pick your doctor, VSP is fairly stress free. If you’re worried about the cost of your glasses or appointment, talk to your doctor! Ask them to estimate the cost of your lenses and feel free to say no if they try to upcharge you or offer you any special deals that VSP won’t cover.  

Want to get started on it now? Click here to find a doctor with VSP! 