This is your gentle nudge: Visit your dentist, schedule an eye exam

If the first thing you think about when you look in the mirror each morning is, “I need to have my eyes checked!” or “When was the last time I saw the dentist?” you are not alone. Making time for those exams is essential for your overall well-being. Far too often, we overlook these aspects of our health until problems arise, but being proactive now may lead to fewer problems later. Regular eye exams can detect changes in vision and uncover underlying health issues such as diabetes and hypertension. Routine dental check-ups help you maintain your oral hygiene and can help you prevent gum disease or detect early signs of oral cancer. 

By staying ahead of potential issues, you can avoid unnecessary discomfort, financial burdens, and more serious health complications down the line. 

Build healthy habits: Find an in-network provider and schedule your eye and dental exams. 

Vision care

If you are enrolled in Stanford’s VSP Vision Care plan, visit vsp.com/eye-doctor or call 800-877-7195 to find an in-network doctor near you. Don't forget your VSP plan pays for one exam and a $200 frame allowance for glasses each year. To learn more about what’s covered under VSP, explore the Employee Vision Plan page on Cardinal at Work.

You may also leverage your medical plans to schedule a routine eye exam by coordinating with your primary care physician. To learn more about what is covered through your medical plan, use the Comparison Tool on Cardinal at Work. Under the benefits type, select “Medical Plans,” and then choose your medical insurance plan. From there, locate the section labeled “Vision Care.”

Dental care

Stanford has audited other dental networks and found that  Delta Dental still has the largest national network. New dental groups continue to join Delta, ensuring you have access to a wide range of in-network providers for your dental care needs. If you're enrolled in this dental plan, visit deltadental.com to locate an in-network dentist near you. 

NOTE: Using PPO or Premier in-network providers keeps your costs lower. You can still use your preferred dental provider even if they are not in-network, but it’s important to know that you may be billed for charges that are above what the plan allows. To learn more about what’s covered and what’s allowable when using out-of-network coverage, view the Comparison Tool and select “Dental.”

Use your FSA or HSA to pay for eligible vision/dental expenses

Your flexible spending account (FSA) or health savings account (HSA) can help cover some vision and dental costs. Whether it's eye exams, glasses, dental cleanings, or fillings, these funds can significantly reduce your out-of-pocket costs. Gain insights into eligible expenses for your HSA by referring to Fidelity’s “What you can (and can’t) pay for with your HSA”. Similarly, for an FSA, review Fidelity’s list of eligible expenses.