Will New Laws Impact Employee Vision Plans ?
It seems that as long as there has been health insurance, there have also been doctors who chafe against the policies and procedures imposed by these companies. In this most recent round of doctor/patient advocacy, vision plans are facing some significant legal challenges. A recent spate of legislation across the United States takes aim at certain restrictions that are common across many vision plans. Take a look at some of the changes already going into effect.
Prohibits vision plans from forcing doctors of optometry to offer a discount program on noncovered services. Also requires insurers to treat all doctors of optometry participating in the plan equally, regardless of whether they've agreed to participate in the discount program.
Prohibits vision plans from forcing doctors to follow the carrier fee schedule for services that are not covered in the plan.
Prohibits requirements that doctors participate in a vision plan as a condition for contracting with a health plan; restrictions or limitations on doctors' choice of materials, services or optical labs provided to a patient; and requirements on noncovered services and materials.
We can expect to see similar legislation make progress in other states and nationally. At a time when there are few legislative agenda items that everyone can agree on, these bills passed easily with bi-partisan support. The American Optometric Association is focusing its efforts on the Dental and Optometric Care Access Act in Congress, with hopes that it will be passed next year.
