Vision Insurance for District Employees

The St. Johns River Water Management District is seeking quotes for a fully insured vision insurance plan for district employees, retirees, and their families, effective January 1, 2026. The procurement is targeting a comprehensive vision insurance provider for its 510 professional, administrative, and technical staff located across multiple service centers in northeast and east-central Florida. Respondents must meet specific qualifications, including maintaining an A.M. Best Rating of "A-" or higher, demonstrating at least five years of experience in group vision insurance, and possessing an established network of vision care providers. The quote request (QR 41311) requires electronic responses by 2:00 p.m. on July 18, 2025, with an evaluation and ranking process scheduled for August 4, 2025, and potential oral presentations between August 11-13, 2025. Key objectives include providing flexible coverage options with annual eye exams, frames, and lens benefits, with the district seeking quotes for two plan options: frames every other calendar year and frames every calendar year. The district's evaluation will focus on professional service quality, provider network accessibility, and affordable cost structures.

The procurement does not specify explicit set-aside designations or restrictions for disadvantaged enterprises. The current vision insurance provider is EyeMed Vision Care, with 100% of premiums currently paid by employees and retirees. The estimated annual premiums are approximately $42,000, based on current enrollment of 268 participants across various coverage tiers including employee only, employee + 1, and employee + family plans. The contract duration is anticipated to be two years, from January 1, 2026, through December 31, 2027, with potential annual renewal options. Current enrollment data shows coverage for different employee classes, including Benefit Eligible Full-Time, Part-Time, Senior Management, Retirees, and Executives, with coverage levels ranging from individual to family plans. The existing EyeMed plan offers comprehensive benefits, including significant discounts (averaging 71% off retail), access to thousands of providers, and additional perks like hearing care discounts and LASIK pricing options. The district aims to maintain its current level of vision care service while potentially improving cost-effectiveness and provider network accessibility.