Aetna Vision vs EyeMed
Aetna Vision vs. EyeMed: Which Affordable Vision Insurance Is Right for You?
If you’re shopping for budget-friendly vision insurance, Aetna Vision and EyeMed are two top contenders. Both offer solid coverage and wide access to eye care providers, but each has its strengths depending on how you prefer to receive care. Let’s break it all down
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Overview of Each Provider
Aetna Vision
Aetna, part of CVS Health, provides vision insurance plans typically through employer-sponsored group benefits. While Aetna doesn’t currently offer individual plans nationwide, it remains a trusted option for comprehensive care, especially when bundled with Aetna medical or dental coverage.
EyeMed
EyeMed is one of the largest vision insurance carriers in the U.S. and specializes in individual and employer plans. EyeMed is known for its vast retail partnerships, digital tools, and flexible plan designs for those seeking personal or family vision coverage.
Plan Types & Coverage
Aetna Vision:
Offered mainly through group/employer coverage
Includes eye exams, lenses, frames, and contact lenses
Lens upgrades (anti-glare, polycarbonate, photochromic)
Medical necessity contact lens coverage
Preventive wellness and eye health education resources
EyeMed:
Offers both individual and employer-sponsored plans
Coverage includes exams, glasses, contacts
Discounts on LASIK, progressive lenses, and multiple eyewear options
Optional add-ons like retinal imaging and premium lens options
Many plans allow for annual or biennial frame and lens replacement
Provider Network & Retail Partners
Aetna Vision Network:
Includes over 100,000 access points
Features a mix of private optometrists and some retail chains
Retail access varies by plan, but often includes Walmart Vision, Sam’s Club, Visionworks, and CVS locations
EyeMed Network:
One of the largest networks in the U.S.
Retail giants: LensCrafters, Target Optical, Pearle Vision, ContactsDirect, Glasses.com
Wide availability of both private practice and retail providers
Over 155,000 providers nationwide
Pricing & Premiums
Aetna Vision:
Premiums vary by employer and plan design
Typical monthly cost through an employer plan: $10–$20
Copays: ~$10 for exams, ~$25 for materials
Frame allowance: $130–$150 (varies by plan)
EyeMed:
Individual plans start around $5–$15/month
Copays: ~$10 for exams, ~$25 for glasses/lenses
Frame allowance: Typically $130–$150 annually
Many plans include out-of-network reimbursement options
Ease of Use & Enrollment
Aetna Vision:
Accessed through employer HR or benefits portals
Integrated with Aetna’s medical and dental platforms
Online member portal with provider lookup and benefit tracking
No public individual plan enrollment at this time
EyeMed:
Seamless online enrollment for individuals and families
Mobile app for digital ID cards, provider search, and claims tracking
Easy-to-navigate member dashboard
Transparent plan comparison tools available before purchase
Extras & Discounts
Aetna Vision:
Discounts on LASIK through QualSight
Hearing aid discounts if bundled with Aetna health plans
Educational resources for eye wellness and chronic condition management
CVS retail integration in select areas
EyeMed:
LASIK discounts through the U.S. Laser Network
40% off additional pairs of glasses
Discounts on blue light filtering, premium anti-reflective lenses, and scratch protection
Exclusive online offers from Glasses.com and ContactsDirect
Best For…
Aetna Vision: Best for those getting coverage through work, especially if already using Aetna health or dental insurance.
EyeMed: Best for individuals and families who want easy online enrollment, big-box retail access, and affordable monthly premiums.
Pros and Cons
Aetna Vision Pros:
Great for bundled employer benefits
Preventive health integration
LASIK and hearing discounts
Large network with flexible options
Cons:
No widely available individual plans
Retail access depends on the plan
EyeMed Pros:
Strong retail network
Flexible, affordable individual plans
Excellent digital tools and mobile access
Great for out-of-pocket discounts on eyewear
Cons:
Some coverage differences between in-network and out-of-network care
Premium lens upgrades can add cost without add-ons
Final Verdict: Which One Should You Choose?
Choose Aetna Vision if your employer offers it and you want a well-rounded vision plan that works well with your other Aetna benefits.
Choose EyeMed if you’re looking for easy-to-manage, low-cost coverage with extensive retail options and no employer needed.
Both are strong vision insurance providers—it ultimately comes down to your preferred access method (individual vs. group) and whether you prioritize private practice or retail flexibility.
How to Get a Quote or Enroll
Aetna Vision: Visit aetna.com or speak with your employer or HR rep to check plan availability.
EyeMed: Visit eyemed.com and explore plans available in your ZIP code. Enroll in minutes directly online.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
EyeMed typically offers more affordable individual plans, with premiums starting around $5–$15/month. Aetna Vision is generally available through employers, which may reduce your costs depending on subsidies.
Yes for EyeMed — individual and family plans are available directly online. Aetna Vision is primarily offered through employer group benefits and doesn’t currently have widespread individual plan availability.
Yes. Both Aetna Vision and EyeMed provide coverage for comprehensive eye exams, eyeglass lenses and frames, and contact lenses. In most cases, you choose either glasses or contacts in a benefit period.
Aetna Vision uses a large national network including private eye doctors and retailers like Walmart and Visionworks. EyeMed has one of the largest networks with over 155,000 access points, including LensCrafters, Target Optical, Pearle Vision, and more.
EyeMed offers broader and more convenient access to big-name retailers and online eyewear platforms. Aetna Vision includes some retailers but focuses more on private providers.
Yes. Both providers offer discounts or fixed copays for upgrades such as anti-reflective coatings, progressive lenses, polycarbonate lenses, and photochromic options.
Yes. Both providers offer discounted LASIK through partner networks — Aetna typically uses QualSight, while EyeMed uses the U.S. Laser Network.
Yes. Both providers offer digital portals to view benefits, find providers, and access ID cards. EyeMed also provides a mobile app for on-the-go access.
EyeMed has the edge in size with over 155,000 providers nationwide. Aetna Vision offers a large network as well, but it’s more focused on integration with other Aetna benefits.
No. Vision insurance benefits can only be applied from one plan per service or purchase at a time.
Blake Insurance Group
Phone: (888) 387-3687
Email: [email protected]
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Sat-Sun: Closed
Blake Nwosu
Owner & Principal Agent