Vitality changed its optical network partner from Vision Express to Boots Opticians on 9 September 2026.
The change affects where members can claim the higher benefit for eye tests, glasses and contact lenses. Boots Hearingcare also became Vitality’s hearing network provider from the same date.
You only need to know about this if your health insurance includes Optical, Dental and Hearing cover. This is an optional extra. It is not included on every Vitality policy.
What does the Boots Opticians change mean for you?
The optical benefits have not changed. The main change is where you need to go to get the higher claim limit.
| Provider | Amount Vitality pays | Maximum per plan year |
|---|---|---|
| Boots Opticians | 100% of eligible costs | £500 |
| Other opticians | 80% of eligible costs | £300 |
For example, say you have an eligible £250 bill and enough benefit left. At Boots Opticians, Vitality could repay the full £250. At another optician, it could repay £200.
These are claim limits. They are not a general allowance to spend on any glasses or optical products.
What happened to Vision Express?
Vision Express was Vitality’s optical network partner until 8 September 2026. From 9 September onwards, you need to use Boots Opticians to get the higher network limit.
If you had treatment around the changeover date, check the date of your appointment or purchase before you claim.
What optical costs are covered?
Vitality says Optical, Dental and Hearing insurance can help towards:
- UK eye tests
- New prescription glasses
- Up to a year’s supply of contact lenses after a sight test and new prescription
Your prescription must have been issued after your optical cover started. Prescription sunglasses may also qualify if they meet the policy rules.
Vitality does not currently cover contact lens check-ups or contact lens solution. It also says a contact lens prescription must follow a standard eye examination. An annual contact lens check on its own does not count.
Glasses or contact lenses bought outside the UK are not covered.
For a children’s eye test, check whether NHS help is available before you pay privately. Your optometrist should also be able to explain what help may apply.
What about hearing tests and hearing aids?
Vitality’s hearing benefit can help with UK hearing tests and prescribed hearing aids.
Using its hearing network provider, Vitality currently pays 100% of eligible costs up to £400 per plan year. If you use another provider, it pays 80% up to £300.
Vitality says hearing tests should take place as often as your audiologist recommends.
There is one point to check before buying replacement hearing aids. Vitality’s published information is not fully consistent. One page says replacements can be claimed every four years, while other guidance has referred to five years. If this applies to you, check the rule for your own policy before buying.
Does it also cover dental treatment?
Yes. Optical, Dental and Hearing cover also includes some everyday dental costs.
Vitality can help with dental check-ups, hygienist appointments, fillings, crowns, root treatment and some other dental treatment. Dental care has its own limits and rules.
The move to Boots does not affect which dentist you can use.
How do you make a claim?
First, check Member Zone to make sure Optical, Dental and Hearing cover is included on your plan.
After your appointment, keep an itemised receipt. It should show what you paid for and the date. You can then submit your claim through Vitality’s Care Hub.
Vitality says eligible optical, dental and hearing treatment should normally have taken place within the previous six months.
Are Boots Advantage Card offers part of the cover?
No. Boots Advantage Card offers are separate from your Vitality health insurance. Any Boots points or shop discounts do not change what Vitality will pay.
When comparing this benefit, look at how much the extra cover costs, what you are likely to claim for, and whether the network for vision and hearing tests is convenient for you.
Our Vitality Health Insurance review explains the wider policy options.