Prioritize vision: It’s essential for learning, growth, and lifelong well-being.

Each August, Children’s Eye Health and Safety Month raises awareness about the importance of early detection and protection of children’s vision. Led by Prevent Blindness, this national campaign emphasizes that healthy vision is critical for a child’s development—impacting everything from learning and behavior to physical activity and confidence.

However, only 53% of children in the U.S. received a vision screening in 2021, leaving many without the support they need. At Missouri State University, employees have access to affordable vision coverage that supports their families’ eye health—including their children.

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👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 MSU Vision Plan: Affordable Coverage for the Whole Family

MSU offers optional vision insurance through VSP, a leading vision care provider. Employees can enroll in coverage for themselves, their children, or their entire family.

Both plans include:

• Annual eye exams with a $10 copay

• Eyeglass frame or contact lens allowances ($130–$175 depending on plan)

• Access to a large network of providers

📘 Full plan details:
🔗 MSU Vision Insurance Information

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🧒 Set Kids Up for Success — Vision and Learning Go Hand in Hand

As children return to school, ensuring their vision is clear can help set them up for academic and social success. According to VSP’s article, Setting Kids Up for Success, up to 80% of classroom learning is visual. Issues like nearsightedness, farsightedness, or eye coordination problems can impact performance—but are often easy to correct with glasses or contact lenses.

Early vision care makes a lifelong difference—encouraging better engagement, confidence, and physical safety for your child.

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🏫 On-Campus Vision Screenings — Free Option Without VSP Coverage

Missouri State employees and their families without VSP coverage still have access to vision support. The Campus and Community Vision Screening Program, offered through MSU’s Center for Academic Success and Transition (CASL), provides free vision screenings:

🔗 Campus Vision Screenings

This is a great no-cost option to help catch potential vision issues early, especially for children who may not yet show signs of difficulty seeing.

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👓 Vision Wear & FSA Savings

Did you know that many vision-related costs qualify for Flexible Spending Account (FSA) reimbursement? These include:

• Prescription eyeglasses

• Prescription sunglasses

• Contact lenses and solutions

✅ Learn more about eligible vision expenses:
🔗 ASIFlex: Eligible Expenses

💵 Review or enroll in MSU’s cafeteria (FSA) plan:
🔗 MSU FSA Information

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🔍 Find a Doctor & Explore VSP Discounts

• 🔍 Need to schedule an exam? Use the VSP provider search tool:
  🔗 Find a VSP Eye Doctor

• 🕶️ Looking for eyewear savings? Access exclusive discounts:
  🔗 VSP Vision Discounts

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Stay Informed:

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