Jul 11, 2006 4:25 PM
The UFT Welfare Fund is increasing its optical benefits. The improved benefit includes a more extensive eye exam, expanded discounts for special features when using a panelist and an increased flat reimbursement from the current $40 to up to $75. The new plan goes into effect on April 1.
The eye exam, as performed by an optometrist, includes a refraction, a retinoscopy, a tonometry (glaucoma test), and a physical health evaluation and history. If the patient and optometrist agree that dilation is required, the optometrist may charge the patient a maximum of $30.
The eyeglass coverage includes a pair of either single vision, bifocal or trifocal lenses and a frame that retails for at least $100. In lieu of eyeglasses, a credit of up to $75 is given toward the purchase of contact lenses.
Prescription sunglasses are also covered. However, non-prescription sunglasses are not covered by the plan.
If members want to upgrade services, for example to get designer frames or progressive lenses, they are entitled to at least a 10 percent discount in addition to deducting the frame allowance — $100 if upgraded — and the $75 Fund benefit. [See box for examples of upgrade costs.]
There is a 10 percent discount on purchases of other items not connected to the covered service, such as a second pair of glasses.
In addition, there are maximum surcharges for such features as tinting, $15; UV block, $15; scratch-resistant coating, $20; glare-free coating, $30; polycarbonate lenses, $35; and photochromatic lenses (that darken in sunlight), $50. A detailed description of services is printed on the back of each validated optical certificate.
Members are eligible for the Welfare Fund’s optical benefit once every two years. However, if members and their spouse/domestic partner are both UFT members, they are eligible for two services in the two-year time frame. So they may coordinate benefits and either use one certificate every year or both certificates on the same service after two years in order to cover additional out-of-pocket expenses.
The procedure for using the UFT Welfare Fund’s Optical Program is unchanged. Contact the Fund for an optical certificate. Call the Welfare Fund 24-hour forms hotline at 1-212-539-0539 and provide the identifying information requested. The certificate will be valid for 90 days rather than the 30 days currently in effect.
Should you choose not to utilize a participating panelist, you may receive a direct reimbursement by submitting a paid receipt with a signed, completed, validated certificate to the Fund. Members requesting direct reimbursement can now have their eyes examined as a covered service toward the maximum Fund reimbursement. The reimbursement for just an eye exam has been increased to $20.
Component: “Box” ---------------------------------------------------------------
Upgraded service example:
Retail Price
Designer Frames: $220.00
Progressives Lenses: $225.00
Total Retail Price: $445.00
10% Minimal Panelist Discount: ($ 44.50)
Sub-Total: $400.50
Basic Frame Allowance (if upgraded) ($100.00)
Sub-Total: $300.50
Welfare Fund Benefit: ($ 75.00)
Member’s Final Cost: $225.50