A new collaboration with Warby Parker will enable millions of UnitedHealthcare Vision plan participants to purchase Warby Parker eyewear, online and in WP stores across the country, for little or no out-of-pocket cost, starting in 2018. The news serves up another challenge to optometric practices and optical shops that are trying to retain their patients’ optical purchases.
According to a press release sent out this morning, people enrolled in UnitedHealthcare employer-sponsored and individual vision plans can access Warby Parker’s prescription eyewear and sunwear, online or at any of the more than 50 stores nationwide, beginning in 2018. This marks the first time Warby Parker is accepting vision insurance, and will enable millions of people to purchase prescription eyewear for only their copay. Previously, Warby Parker customers had to file with their vision care plans after the fact to receive out-of-network reimbursement for a portion of their eyewear costs, if eligible.
“Warby Parker and UnitedHealthcare will help more Americans access designer eyewear at affordable prices to help meet the eyecare needs of the people we serve,” says Tom Wiffler, CEO, UnitedHealthcare Specialty Benefits.
“Warby Parker is constantly exploring new ways to provide people access to affordable, high-quality, and fashionable eyewear,” said Dave Gilboa, co-founder and co-CEO of Warby Parker. “We look forward to working with UnitedHealthcare, nationwide, to enable millions of Americans to purchase their eyewear at a fraction of the price they might pay through traditional channels.”
In May of this year, Warby Parker announced a online “vision test” called Prescription Check designed to help customers get their prescriptions renewed and order more eyewear through the company.
