Vision coverage is offered through the Vision Service Plan (VSP). Benefits under the vision plan are designed to help you pay the cost of certain necessary vision care expenses. If you visit a VSP preferred provider, your out-of-pocket costs will generally be lower than if you visit an “open access” provider.
Monthly contributions for 2024
|
Monthly contributions |
Employee only |
Employee + spouse/domestic partner |
Employee + child(ren) |
Employee + spouse/domestic partner + child(ren) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Vision |
$11.27 |
$28.18 |
$22.54 |
$39.45 |
The following is a high-level summary of the benefits offered under the Merck vision plan. For details about the vision plan, including any exclusions and limitations that may apply, click here to access the plan documents.
If you receive services from a VSP preferred provider
|
For these types of services |
The vision plan pays |
You pay |
|---|---|---|
|
Eye exam at a VSP preferred provider |
100% after $10 copay |
$10 copay |
|
Prescription lenses at a VSP preferred provider |
100% after $10 copay, plus 100% of the cost of polycarbonate lenses for dependent children under age 19 (progressive lenses and tints are covered in full) |
$10 copay, plus 35%-40% discounted prices on all non-covered options |
|
Frames at a VSP preferred provider |
100% up to $150 |
Any amount over $150 |
|
Frames for ready-made non-prescription blue light filtering glasses or ready-made non-prescription sunglasses at a VSP preferred provider |
100% after $10 copay, up to $150 |
$10 copay, plus any amount over $150 |
|
Elective contact lenses at a VSP preferred provider |
100% up to $140 |
Any amount over $140 |
If you visit an open access provider
If you visit an open access provider — one that doesn’t participate in the VSP network — the plan will provide a fixed reimbursement amount. You will be responsible for paying any amounts over the fixed reimbursement from the plan.
|
For these types of services |
The vision plan pays |
You pay |
|---|---|---|
|
At an open access (non-VSP) provider |
||
|
|
|
Hearing aid discounts available
VSP members and their families are eligible for exclusive savings on hearing aids, replacement batteries and more through TruHearing. For more information, contact TruHearing at 877-396-7194 and mention VSP or visit vsp.truhearing.com. The medical plan also covers hearing aid benefits. For more information, click here to review the Merck Medical Plan SPD.
No ID cards needed for vision coverage
You will not receive an ID card if you enroll for vision coverage. Instead, when you make an appointment, tell the service provider that you are a VSP member and that your employer is Merck. However, if you would like to print a VSP ID card, you can log in to vsp.com and select the “My Benefits” tab.
For your convenience, VSP preferred providers include an extensive list of statewide and nationwide stores, including Costco, Pearle Vision and Visionworks. Visit vsp.com or call 800-877-7195 to find a VSP preferred provider in your area.
If you visit an open access provider — one that doesn’t participate in the VSP network — the plan will provide a fixed reimbursement amount. You will be responsible for paying any amounts over the fixed reimbursement from the plan.
