The Blue View Vision network includes ophthalmologists, optometrists, andopticians. In addition to private practitioners, Blue View Vision's broadnational network includes retailers like LensCrafters(R), Target(R) Optical,JC Penney(R) Optical, Sears Optical and Pearle Vision locations.

"When employees get the vision care they need, productivity increases. Andwhen vision care is covered by the Blue View Vision(SM) plan, employees canget quality care quickly and conveniently," said Monye Connolly, president,BCBSGa.

Blue View Vision members are entitled to a number of important benefitsand discounts on products and services, including comprehensive eyeexaminations and coverage for lenses and frames or contact lenses. Membersalso enjoy additional savings of up to 40 percent on the purchase of extrapairs of eyewear, conventional contact lenses, lens treatments, specializedlenses and other non-covered items, even after they've exhausted their coveredbenefits - kids ages 19 and under get full coverage of Transitions(R) andpolycarbonate lenses.

With many provider locations open evenings and weekends, members havegreater flexibility and convenience when scheduling appointments. And since somany people buy glasses on evenings and weekends, Blue View Vision customerservice is available seven days a week to answer customer questions.

As the work force ages, Blue View Vision coverage can help maintainemployee productivity. The National Eye Institute estimates that more than 38million Americans age 40 and older experience blindness, low vision or anage-related eye disease, such as age-related macular degeneration, diabeticretinopathy, glaucoma or cataracts.

"An eye exam is one of the best forms of preventive medicine today. Anintegrated health benefits plan that includes medical and vision coverageprovides consumers with important preventative services with a focus onoverall well-being and good health," added Connolly. "BCBSGa offers employersa single source for a comprehensive, competitive total insurance package thatcan help them to recruit, engage and retain employees."

About Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Georgia, Inc.

Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Georgia, Inc. and Blue Cross Blue ShieldHealthcare Plan of Georgia, Inc. are independent licensees of the Blue CrossBlue Shield Association. The Blue Cross Blue Shield names and symbols areregistered marks of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association. Additionalinformation about Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Georgia is available atwww.bcbsga.com .

SOURCE Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Georgia