Congresswoman Matsui Statement on the California Health Benefits Exchange's Decision to Offer Stand-Alone Supplemental Vision Plan

Statement

Today, Congresswoman Doris Matsui (CA-05), member of the House Energy and Commerce Committee which has jurisdiction over health care legislation, released a statement praising the decision by the California Health Benefits Exchange to allow VSP, and other stand-alone vision providers, participate in all components of the California exchange. Following the Board's initial decision to preclude stand-alone vision providers from participating in the individual market, Congresswoman Matsui met with leadership of the exchange and submitted a letter urging the Board to allow all Californians to have the option of obtaining stand-alone vision coverage.

"I am pleased with the Board's decision to provide consumers the choice of whether to purchase a stand-alone vision plan within the California Health Benefit Exchange's individual market. Simply put, stand-alone vision plans improve health outcomes and save money, as those enrolled in them are more than twice as likely to receive vision-related preventative services and exams.

"The primary objective of the Affordable Care Act is to expand the availability of quality, affordable health coverage to all, and allowing stand-alone vision plans such as VSP to participate in the individual market exchange is a step toward this goal. When given the option, California consumers overwhelmingly prefer stand-alone vision plans, and today's decision by the Board ensures that Californians will continue to have that choice."

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