Reframing the Vision: Enhancing Product Design for Compliance and Growth

Vision benefits are often underestimated—but for many members, they are among the most frequently used and highly valued services. When we began reviewing our vision product line, it became clear that enhancements were needed—not only to stay competitive, but to ensure compliance and system compatibility.

The Catalyst: More Than Just an Adjustment

What initially started as a routine product review quickly evolved into a broader initiative. New CMS guidance, internal systems needing updates, and a desire to improve member experience drove the need for a deeper redesign. We weren't just adjusting benefit levels—we were rethinking how vision plans were built, filed, and delivered.

The Problem We Were Solving

We needed to update our vision plans while ensuring our internal systems (CMS and GRS) could support the changes. Every tweak to the benefit design required ripple-effect adjustments in how we file, rate, document, and administer the product. Without a coordinated approach, even small updates could lead to errors or delays.

My Approach

I managed this initiative across regulatory, technical, and operational workstreams:

• Exploration: Worked with product and compliance to define enhancement goals and understand new CMS expectations.

• Discovery: Collaborated with IT to identify system impacts, define requirements, and plan for testing cycles.

• Execution: Oversaw rate and document filings, coordinated CMS and GRS updates, and supported training for customer service and sales teams.

  
  

Throughout the project, I ensured that the workstreams remained in sync—and that every change was tested, validated, and implemented with confidence.

Cross-Functional Collaboration

The project required tight coordination between product owners, IT analysts, legal/compliance, and operations teams. I facilitated planning sessions and ongoing progress reviews to manage dependencies, especially when system changes overlapped with other scheduled releases.

Results We Delivered

• Successfully launched updated vision plans that met CMS and GRS technical standards

• Ensured all rate and document filings were approved without revision delays

• Improved system readiness and accuracy for benefit administration

• Positioned the product line for future enhancements without requiring major rework

What I Took Away

Even “minor” product updates carry significant complexity beneath the surface. This project reinforced the value of deeply understanding systems, aligning early with compliance, and treating internal readiness with the same importance as external marketability.