The price is right: Vision plan comes at no cost to counties

County officials familiar with the Community Eye Care (CEC) vision plan have always touted its simplicity and extensive provider network. But in the midst of agonizing budget shortfalls and unprecedented fiscal challenges, the features of the plan that are generating the most buzz among commissioners and managers alike are the economic advantages.

Four advantages in particular are: there is no cost to counties to participate; employees can realize substantial savings; participating counties support the North Carolina economy; and that support in turn increases tax revenues.

No cost: Because the CEC vision plan is a voluntary benefit handled through payroll deduction, there's no cost to the county. That means that the benefit doesn't have to be included in the budget process, and it can be easily implemented at any time of the year. It also enables counties to enhance their benefits packages at a time when virtually all other employers are cutting benefits, thus giving a boost to employee morale.

Savings for employees: Equally important, the CEC plan makes it possible for county employees to substantially reduce their current expenditures for routine eye care: exams, glasses and contact lenses.

"Savings generally range between 50 percent and 70 percent," said Dr. Marvin Schrum, chief operating officer for CEC. "During an economic downturn, those savings can be used to cover the cost of other essential items, such as food, utilities, car payments or mortgages."

Support the economy: Community Eye Care indirectly helps county governments through its positive impact on the North Carolina economy. Because the company is based in North Carolina, CEC's business keeps revenues in-state, creates jobs locally, and helps with the state's economic recovery.

Increased tax revenues: As a North Carolina company, CEC contributes to the local tax base. This is absolutely critical at a time when virtually all counties are facing drastic shortages of revenue.

Dr. Stephen Pollock, CEO of Community Eye Care, acknowledged the economic rationale for using in-state benefits carriers.

"We're proud to be North Carolina's Vision Plan, and we're truly pleased to be able to improve the financial well-being of our county governments and their employees," he said.

Pollock noted that some North Carolina counties haven't yet converted to an in-state vision plan.

"It's possible that not all benefits managers are aware that whenever a county opts to use an out-of-state carrier, funds are siphoned out of North Carolina, tax revenues shrink, more county employees are furloughed or laid off, and essential county services are placed in greater jeopardy," he said.

Community Eye Care is an endorsed benefits provider of the Association. For more information, contact NCACC Outreach Coordinator Lisa Nolen at (919) 715-4362 or lisa.nolen@ncacc.org.