UnitedHealthcare Vision vs Blue View Vision
UnitedHealthcare Vision vs. Blue View Vision (Anthem)
Which Vision Insurance Provider Offers the Best Value for You?
If you’re in the market for affordable vision coverage, UnitedHealthcare Vision and Blue View Vision (offered by Anthem) are two solid choices. Both provide comprehensive plans with national networks, but they differ in pricing, retail access, and plan flexibility. Let’s break it down.
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Overview of Each Provider
UnitedHealthcare Vision
UnitedHealthcare is a major player in the health insurance space, and its vision plans reflect the company’s focus on nationwide access and employer-backed benefits. Their vision plans are offered both through employers and direct-to-consumer platforms.
Blue View Vision (Anthem)
Blue View Vision is the vision care arm of Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield. Known for simplicity, retail accessibility, and reliable customer support, Blue View Vision plans are often bundled with Anthem health or dental benefits but are also available independently.
Plan Types & Coverage
UnitedHealthcare Vision:
Individual, family, and employer-sponsored plans
Comprehensive eye exams
Lenses and frames
Contact lenses (elective and medically necessary)
Discounts on LASIK procedures
Coverage for lens enhancements and options
Blue View Vision:
Employer-sponsored and individual/family plans
Annual eye exams
Prescription glasses or contacts (not both in the same year unless extra paid)
Coverage for progressive lenses, anti-scratch, UV coatings, and tinting
LASIK discount programs
Provider Network & Retail Partners
UnitedHealthcare Vision Network:
Over 105,000 providers nationwide
Includes independent eye doctors and retail chains
Retail partners: Target Optical, Walmart Vision Centers, Sam’s Club, Pearle Vision, and more
Blue View Vision Network:
100,000+ access points
Network includes both private practices and national retailers
Retail partners: LensCrafters, Pearle Vision, Target Optical, and many others
Pricing & Premiums
UnitedHealthcare Vision:
Premiums range from $11 to $20/month for individual coverage
Copays: ~$10 for exams, ~$25 for glasses
Frame allowance: Typically $130–$150
Blue View Vision:
Premiums start around $12–$22/month
Exam copays: ~$10
Frame allowance: Around $130, often includes additional discounts on out-of-pocket eyewear costs
May include bundled savings if combined with Anthem medical or dental plans
Ease of Use & Enrollment
UnitedHealthcare Vision:
Easy online enrollment available via UHC’s individual insurance portal
Digital ID cards and provider search tools
Integrated access through employer health benefits platforms
Blue View Vision:
Seamless enrollment through Anthem or healthcare.gov
User-friendly web tools to view benefits and locate providers
Mobile access through Anthem’s app for most plans
Extras & Discounts
UnitedHealthcare Vision:
LASIK savings through QualSight or other partners
Discounts on hearing aids and screenings
Additional pair of glasses discounts through certain in-network providers
Blue View Vision:
LASIK discounts via EyeMed or QualSight (varies by state)
20–40% off extra pairs of glasses
Discounts on blue-light filter lenses and designer frames
Bundling discounts with other Anthem products
Best For…
UnitedHealthcare Vision: Best for individuals or families looking for wide provider access and optional hearing benefits in addition to vision.
Blue View Vision: Great for clients already using Anthem or seeking affordable retail access and bundling opportunities.
Pros and Cons
UnitedHealthcare Vision Pros:
Large national network
LASIK and hearing aid discounts
Good options for both retail and private optometrists
Direct purchase options available
Cons:
Not as many retail promotions as EyeMed-based plans
Some discounts only apply when using preferred providers
Blue View Vision Pros:
Strong retail partner network (LensCrafters, Target, Pearle Vision)
Easy to bundle with health or dental plans
Clear plan summaries and low copays
Cons:
Less individual plan availability in some states
Cannot combine glasses and contacts in the same benefit period unless you pay out of pocket
Final Verdict: Which One Should You Choose?
Choose UnitedHealthcare Vision if you want flexibility, access to private and retail providers, and optional hearing care discounts.
Choose Blue View Vision if you’re already with Anthem or want easy retail access, bundled savings, and affordable LASIK discounts.
Both offer strong, affordable coverage, and your choice should depend on your preferred provider type, whether you’re enrolled in other Anthem plans, and your usage habits.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Both offer affordable premiums ranging from $11–$22 per month. UnitedHealthcare may have slightly lower exam and lens copays, but Blue View Vision offers more bundling discounts if you also use Anthem health or dental.
Yes, UnitedHealthcare Vision is available for direct enrollment by individuals and families. Blue View Vision is typically available through employers or healthcare.gov, though some states offer individual plans.
Yes. UnitedHealthcare Vision includes Walmart, Target Optical, Sam’s Club, and Pearle Vision. Blue View Vision includes LensCrafters, Target Optical, Pearle Vision, and others through the EyeMed network.
Yes. Both cover annual eye exams, lenses, and frames with low copays. Most plans also offer options for contact lenses instead of glasses.
Usually not. Most plans from both providers require you to choose either glasses or contacts during a single benefit period. However, discounts on the second item may apply.
Yes. Both offer LASIK discounts—UnitedHealthcare through QualSight, and Blue View Vision through EyeMed-affiliated providers or QualSight.
Both have over 100,000 access points nationwide. UnitedHealthcare emphasizes a mix of private optometrists and major retailers, while Blue View Vision (via EyeMed) has strong retail integration.
Blue View Vision is better for bundling if you’re already an Anthem customer. UnitedHealthcare Vision may integrate well if you already have UHC health plans.
Yes. UnitedHealthcare and Anthem both offer online portals and apps for plan management, digital ID cards, and provider searches.
No. Vision benefits can only be used through one provider at a time per service or product.
Blake Insurance Group
Phone: (888) 387-3687
Email: [email protected]
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Blake Nwosu
Owner & Principal Agent