Pacific Northwest
Eye Health Resources
Below are answers to frequently asked questions about Vision Essentials products and services. If you need information about your health plan optical benefits, please call us at 1-888-586-2020.
How are your prices compared to the competition?
At Vision Essentials Optical Centers, we believe in giving our members the highest quality and workmanship at a competitive price. We have a large selection of the latest styles in eyeglass frames and lenses. We guarantee the lowest possible cost on the frame you choose. If you find a better price for one of our regularly stocked frames, we'll match it--and we'll give you $1 extra (excludes Internet pricing). Ask your optician for details.
How long will it take to get my glasses?
Each individual's prescription is special. Our average turnaround time is three to five business days. Every prescription has to be precisely custom-made, and certain types of specialized lenses take longer than others. Members can choose from a wide range of optical products, including different lens materials to fulfill individual needs.
Do you offer discounts or sales?
Yes!
- Our Frame Shows are special one-day events highlighting exciting new designer frame collections at discount prices. This is a great opportunity to see the latest in frame fashions! Click on the Regional Events tab to see the schedule of upcoming shows and to find out which designers will be featured at the show.
- Eyewear Packages (No other discounts apply):
- $99 - Children's Single Vision Package (includes polycarbonate lenses)
- $99 - Adult Single Vision Package
- $129 - Bifocal Package
- $159 - Trifocal Package
- $189 - Progressive Package
- Selected group of quality frames
- Plastic lenses
- Scratch-resistant coating
- UV Protection
- Eyeglass case
- Eyeglass adjustments
- We also offer a multiple pair discount. Ask your optician for more details.
Do you offer a warranty on your eyeglasses?
When you purchase your eyeglasses, you may want to consider our Lens Protection Plan. With this plan, if you scratch your lenses, you are eligible for a one-time replacement within a one-year period from the original date you receive your eyeglasses. Ask your optician for details. Frames are covered under Vision Essentials Warranty and can be replaced in the first year at no cost.
What does my Kaiser Permanente benefit cover?
Most plans cover a comprehensive eye exam. Your employer may have purchased a supplemental optical benefit. For your coverage information, log onto KP.org or contact Member Services at: 503-813-2000 (Portland) or 1-800-813-2000 (Outside Portland - toll free)
Do you offer a money-back guarantee?
Yes. We want you to be completely satisfied with your prescription eyeglasses, so you may exchange or return them for a complete refund within 30 days from the original date you receive your eyeglasses.
What if my prescription changes shortly after I get my new prescription and eyeglasses?
Doctor-approved prescription changes can be made at no charge within 90 days from the original date you receive your eyeglasses.
How do I get a copy of my glasses or contact lens prescription?
Contact the Vision Essentials Optical Center at the facility where you had your eye exam to request a copy. Contact lens prescriptions are released after the fitting process has been completed.
How are contact lens services priced?
The following information will help you better understand the process and the fees charged for these services. At your Vision Essentials Contact Lens fitting appointment, an evaluation will be made to determine the appropriate starter contact lenses. It may take several lenses and several weeks of wearing these lenses to determine which contact lenses are best for your particular visual and lifestyle needs. Once your prescription has been finalized, your optometrist will write you a contact lens prescription.Fitting fees vary according to the type of contact lenses you need. Our fitting service fees are as follows:
- Spherical single vision soft lenses - $75
- Soft toric lenses - $120
- Soft multi-focal lenses - $120
- Soft bifocal lenses - $180
- Gas permeable, hard lens, spherical lenses - $100
- Gas permeable, toric - $145
- Gas permeable bifocal - $180
There may be additional costs if diagnostic lenses are required to finalize your fitting. Prescriptions needing specialized fitting may also require additional fees.
Eyeglasses in your current prescription and non-prescription sunglasses are essential for contact lens wearers. When you purchase a one-year supply of contact lenses, you will receive a coupon for $75.00 off a complete pair of prescription eyewear (excludes eyeglasses packages) and $20.00 off non-prescription sunglasses.
How do I order contact lenses?
Once you have completed the fitting process, you can place an order through the Vision Essentials Contact Lens Department, over the phone or in person.
If you are new to Vision Essentials by Kaiser Permanente and have a valid contact lens prescription or are transferring your prescription, please call the Vision Essentials Contact Lens Department for details.
I have another vision plan. Can I still shop at a Vision Essentials Optical Center?
Yes, Kaiser Permanente members with optical coverage through a different insurance carrier may be eligible for reimbursement by their carrier for the amount of their benefit when purchasing glasses or contact lens at our Vision Essentials Optical Centers. Call or visit one of our locations for more details.