Vision Insurance
The State of Rhode Island offers eligible active employees two options for vision coverage—Anchor Vision and Anchor Vision Plus. Both plans are administered by the Vision Service Plan (VSP). Coverage for participating employees is effective the first day of state employment.
Key Plan Features for 2020
Anchor Vision and Anchor Vision Plus both offer preventive care coverage and an allowance
for frames and contacts. Anchor Vision is a base plan, but Anchor Vision Plus is a
"buy-up" option that offer bigger allowances.
Under both Anchor vision plans:
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Dependents up to age 26 are eligible to enroll.
Both plan options offer benefits in- and out-of-network. However, the State encourages you to visit a VSP participating provider to receive the greatest coverage. To find a provider near you, visit www.vsp.com.
VSP does not issue ID cards, but you may print one out after registering/logging into your account on www.vsp.com. Your ID number is your Social Security Number. At your appointment, tell your doctor that you are a member of VSP in order for him/her to verify your VSP eligibility.
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How Does the "Buy-Up" Option Work?
You can elect to pay a higher premium (co-share) to receive more vision coverage under the "buy-up" option, Anchor Vision Plus. Keep in mind, however, that the State’s contribution towards the cost of your coverage is the same regardless of whether you elect the base or the buy-up option.
Anchor Vision Plus has higher allowances and may be worth considering if you or your dependent may need additional vision services in 2020.
VSP Co-Share Rates for 2020
A co-share is the amount you must pay each pay period for health insurance. Co-shares vary by individual vs. family coverage, as well as by annual salary and full-time/part-time status.
• For 26 pay-period classified and unclassified union and non-union employees
• For 20 pay-period classified and unclassified union and non-union employees
• For Non-classified Faculty and Staff
Applicable co-share's will be deducted from the employees biweekly pay on a pre-tax basis.
Changes to vision insurance may be made during open enrollment, and take effect the first pay period in January, unless a "Qualifying Status Change" is experienced.
Any change in employment classification that would result in the loss of eligibility to participate in the vision insurance plan may qualify an employee for benefits continuation under the Consolidated Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act (COBRA). Employees should refer to the COBRA (Continuation of Health Insurance Coverage) policy for more information.
Waiving VSP Insurance: Should an employee already have insurance coverage through other means, he/she may elect to waive vision insurance coverage. An employee may reverse this waiver should a change in family status result in a loss of coverage through other means. All changes to vision coverage must be made through Workterra.