Aug. 26, 2020 — In response to the impacts of Covid-19, VSP has announced it will delay its ophthalmic formulary changes, originally set to start Sept. 1, until Jan. 1, 2021.

Additionally, the company is launching a new grant program to help offset expenses network practices are dealing with as a result of the pandemic.

“While the formulary changes remain vital to securing doctors’ access to patients, we recognize the extended disruption and uncertainty practices across the nation continue to face,” says Michelle Skinner, VSP Global Chief Network Officer. “Because of this, we’re going to take a pause and delay our formulary changes to give practices more time to prepare. Also, we’re going to accelerate additional support for doctors at this critical time.”

VSP’s new grant program will provide financial support to help offset the many expenses and accommodations that doctors and their staff incurred to reopen and operate in accordance with federal, state, and local guidelines and safety requirements to provide patient care. Eligible Premier Program practices can receive up to $10,000 in cash payments, and all other eligible network doctors can receive up to $5,000 in cash payments. These payments will be made as grants and will not require repayment. VSP has announced that further details on the program are to come. 

“In talking with doctors, we’ve heard countless stories of those who have gone above and beyond to meet the needs of their patients, while at the same time doing whatever it takes to keep their practices running and serving their communities,” Skinner says. “As we weather this storm together, we want to thank doctors for their passion and dedication, while we at VSP continue to focus on ensuring their access to patients.” 

VSP network doctors can access the latest news, information, and resources available from VSP Global at: vspproviderhub.com/covid-19.