Highmark announced that it has reached a definitive agreement with Centerbridge Partners to purchase Davis Vision (managed vision care); and a minority equity stake in Visionworks (vision retail stores). As part of the agreement, Highmark will acquire a minority ownership interest in a combined Davis Vision-Superior Vision managed care company and retain a controlling ownership interest in Visionworks.
The transaction is expected to be finalized in fourth quarter of 2017. For customers and members who currently have vision policies with Davis Vision or who shop at Visionworks, there will be no change in their coverage, care or customer experience. As a result, in the interim, it’s business as usual.
Below are some Frequently Asked Questions to help you during conversation with your clients:
- Is Davis Vision still our preferred Vision partner? Yes, and after the transaction closes, Highmark will maintain a minority, equity stake in the new Davis Vision-Superior Vision company and, as such, it will remain a preferred vision plan for all of our Highmark business.
- What changes can current Davis Vision members expect? In the short-term, members will not experience any change in their coverage or customer service experience. After the transaction closes, they will have access to stronger vision coverage and care network with broad and affordable access to vision care, outstanding service and the resources to help them make informed vision care choices that offer the greatest value.
- What changes can current Blue Branded/BlueEdge vision members they expect? members will not see any changes on their integrated Blue Branded/BlueEdge vision plans.
For more details, please review the press release.