EyeMed Vision Insurance: What You Should Know Before Your Eye Exam

Dr. Ryan Corte
Oct 10
4 min read

Are you interested in learning more about EyeMed vision insurance?

Maybe you already have EyeMed and are looking for an eye doctor in Charlotte or Asheville, NC.

If so, look no further, Reflect Vision Care proudly accepts EyeMed insurance! We also accept a wide range of vision and medical insurance plans, helping you and your family receive the best eye care possible with minimal out-of-pocket costs.

Below, we’ve outlined the most frequently asked questions our patients ask about EyeMed and what to expect when using your vision benefits for an eye exam, glasses, or contacts.

What Is EyeMed Vision Insurance?

EyeMed Vision Care is one of the fastest-growing and most widely accepted vision benefit providers in the United States. Founded in 1988 and owned by Luxottica Group, EyeMed connects millions of members with affordable, high-quality vision care through an extensive national network of eye doctors and optical retailers.

EyeMed offers significant savings on:

Comprehensive eye exams
Glasses and prescription lenses
Contact lens fittings and materials
Vision correction surgery (LASIK and PRK) through the U.S. Laser Network

With EyeMed, members can also enjoy discounts on non-prescription sunglasses, accessories, and second pairs of glasses.

How to Find an EyeMed Provider

EyeMed makes it easy to find a participating provider through their EyeMed Provider Locator.

With over 44,000 providers nationwide, EyeMed has the largest vision care network in the country, including both independent optometrists like Reflect Vision Care and large retail optical chains.

When searching, you can filter by:

Location or ZIP code
Provider or practice name
Network (e.g., Access, Insight, Select)
Frame brands or specific services offered

💡 Tip: If you have EyeMed through your employer, be sure to confirm which network your plan uses, as EyeMed offers multiple tiers with slightly different benefits. And yes, Reflect Vision Care proudly accepts EyeMed!

What If My Provider Isn’t In-Network?

You can see any provider you prefer. However, if you visit an out-of-network provider, you’ll likely need to pay at the time of service and submit a claim for reimbursement.

Your reimbursement amount will depend on your specific plan, but in-network care almost always results in lower out-of-pocket costs and simplified billing.

Our Reflect Vision Care team can help verify your benefits and explain your coverage before your visit to avoid surprises.

How Much Does EyeMed Cost?

EyeMed offers both individual and employer-sponsored plans in most states, including North Carolina.

Individual discount plans start as low as $5 per month
Family plans can range up to $90 per month depending on coverage level
Enrollment is available online year-round, with no sign-up fees
Some states offer a 5% discount for annual payments made in full

Coverage typically begins on your selected enrollment date, and members can access their benefits instantly through the EyeMed app or online member portal.

What Does EyeMed Cover?

EyeMed covers a wide range of vision care services, with plan options that include discounts or allowances for glasses, contacts, and lens enhancements.

Eye Exams

Most EyeMed plans include a comprehensive eye exam for a small copay (usually $10–$25).

Frames and Lenses

EyeMed typically provides a $150 allowance for frames and covers single vision, lined bifocals, and lined trifocals in full after copay.

You can also add enhancements like:

Anti-glare coating
UV protection
Transitions or photochromic lenses
Premium progressive lenses

Members also receive:

40% off a second pair of prescription glasses
20% off non-prescription sunglasses and accessories

Contact Lenses

EyeMed plans generally include both an evaluation copay and an allowance for contact lens materials, often up to $125.

Members also receive a 15% discount on conventional contact lenses when purchased through in-network providers.

💡 Note: As with most vision plans, you can use your benefits toward glasses or contacts, but not both during the same benefit period.

Are Medically Necessary Contacts Covered?

If you have advanced dry eye or keratoconus, your optometrist may recommend medically necessary contact lenses such as scleral, hybrid, or rigid gas permeable (RGP) lenses.

Some EyeMed plans provide partial or full coverage for medically necessary contact lenses, but coverage can vary. Our doctors will help determine if your condition and plan qualify.

Does EyeMed Cover Diabetic Eye Exams?

While EyeMed plans cover routine eye exams, diabetic eye exams are considered medical and are typically billed under your medical insurance instead.

If you have diabetes, an annual comprehensive eye exam is essential for detecting early signs of diabetic retinopathy, the leading cause of preventable blindness in adults.

Through certain employers, EyeMed may offer a Diabetic Eye Care benefit, though this is not available for individual market plans.

Does EyeMed Cover LASIK or PRK?

EyeMed does not directly pay for LASIK or PRK, but members receive:

15% off the retail price, or
5% off promotional pricing through the U.S. Laser Network

This discount applies whether you use your vision benefits for glasses, contacts, or elective surgery.

Additional Benefits Patients Should Know

Largest provider network: 44,000+ participating eye doctors nationwide
High savings potential: EyeMed members save up to 71% on vision products and services
Convenient tools: Manage benefits and digital ID cards through the EyeMed app
Flexible plan choices: Available to both individuals and employers
Discounts beyond exams: Savings on LASIK, sunglasses, accessories, and additional eyewear purchases

Why Choose EyeMed for Your Vision Care?

EyeMed combines affordability, flexibility, and an extensive provider network, making it one of the most popular vision insurance options in North Carolina.

At Reflect Vision Care, we’re proud to partner with EyeMed to provide you with advanced, personalized, and comfortable eye care experiences. Whether you need new glasses, contact lenses, or a full digital eye exam, we’ll help you maximize your benefits every step of the way.

Schedule Your EyeMed Eye Exam Today

Ready to use your EyeMed benefits? Our team at Reflect Vision Care is here to make it simple and stress-free.

Schedule your eye exam at one of our convenient locations:

📞 Call us or schedule online to book your appointment today!