PITTSBURGH, Pa.—VBA has signed an agreement that will bring Costco Optical on-board as an eyecare provider in the VBA network, the companies announced Tuesday. VBA is a group vision coverage provider that was formerly known as Vision Benefits of America.

The new partnership will allow VBA members an additional access point for maintaining and managing their eye health, the statement said.

“It’s exciting to join forces with Costco,” said VBA vice president of sales and support Matthew Cuomo. “Both Costco and VBA are known for their excellent customer service and we’re proud to have their knowledgeable, friendly staff as part of the VBA network of eyecare providers.”

Costco operates more than 400 optical centers within its warehouses nationwide. The centers offer frames, contact lenses, and a variety of prescription and special lens options for Costco members. Many locations also have an independent doctor of optometry (OD) in or near the optical department, the companies said in the statement.

The ODs are contracted on an individual basis and those who elect to join will be considered in-network for VBA members, the statement said. Through these OD relationships, VBA members also will have access to comprehensive eye exams, and frame and lens options through Costco Optical.

VBA members must have a Costco membership in order to access Costco Optical. However, a Costco membership is not required to receive an exam from a network OD, according to the statement.