Member, spouse and eligible dependents are entitled to an eye exam and eye glasses every 12 months.
Effective January 1, 2010 two vision vendors are available for retirees who reside in New York or New Jersey, Vision Screening and Davis Vision. Vision Screening will provide a vision exam, frames/lenses or contacts at no charge in New York State and for a $15 co-payment in New Jersey. Davis Vision will provide a vision exam, frames/lenses or contacts for a $25 co-payment in New York State. For out of state (non-New York) retirees, Davis Vision is the sole vendor and will provide an exam, frames/lenses or contacts for a $67 co-payment ($25 basic eyewear + $42 basic exam). You may choose from the selection of Davis Vision “Designer” frames at any participating Davis Vision provider. Should you wish to upgrade your frames to Davis Vision’s “Premier” frame selection, you may do so for an additional $25.
As of January 1, 2010 optical certificates are no longer required as eligibility is maintained by both Vision Screening and Davis Vision. Appointments can be scheduled directly at the participating provider’s office by providing your DEA unique ID number.
Lastly, in addition to the elimination of the vision voucher requirement, the new retiree vision benefit replaces the previous $32.50 eye examination/eye glass benefit and $10 examination only benefit, effective January 1, 2010.