VSP Vision Surpasses $3 Million Milestone in Student Debt Relief for Optometrists; Opens Application Period for 2027 Student Loan Repayment Program

RANCHO CORDOVA, Calif. - Today, VSP Vision^™ announced it has provided more than $3 million in debt relief to 70 optometry students, recent graduates, and practicing optometrists since the inception of the VSP Vision^™ Student Loan Repayment Program in 2023.

In addition to debt relief, the Student Loan Repayment Program has developed an innovative approach to providing care in healthcare deserts and underserved communities as applicants agree to relocate to a high-need area for a minimum of four years upon acceptance. Recipients have the option to practice within their modality of choice, including private practice.

"The Student Loan Repayment Program is an investment in both the future of optometry and the health of the communities we serve," said Michelle Skinner, Chief Provider Solutions Officer at VSP Vision. "We're proud to reach this student debt relief milestone and will continue to double down on our investments in private practice while expanding access to eye care in underserved communities."

VSP Vision is now accepting applications for 2027. Recipients are selected for their dedication to optometry, patient care, and serving communities in need. Fourth-year optometry students, resident students, recent graduates, and practicing optometrists with student debt are welcomed to apply and previous applicants who weren't accepted are encouraged to apply again.

VSP Vision's current commitment to the program so far is $14 million with plans to fund an additional 20 recipients in 2027. Those interested in learning more and applying can visit the Student Loan Repayment Program website.

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About VSP Vision
At VSP Vision^™, our purpose is to empower human potential through sight. As the first national not-for-profit vision benefits company, this is what drives everything we do. For 70 years, VSP^® has been a leader in health-focused vision care. Every day, the people that power our complementary businesses across vision benefits, eye care services, eyewear solutions, and practice solutions, work together to create a world where everyone can bring their best vision to life. That means providing affordable access to eye care and eyewear for millions of members through a network of more than 44,000 doctors. It also means expanding access to vision care to those disadvantaged by income, distance, or disaster through VSP Eyes of Hope^®. To date, more than 4.5 million people in need have received access to no-cost eye care and eyewear through one of our Eyes of Hope programs. Learn more about how we're reinvesting in greater vision, health, and opportunities for all at vspvision.com.