More than 800 Insurers Now Available Via Speedier eClaim System

SACRAMENTO, CA, March 22, 2001 -- In a move that makes it possible for many eye doctors across the country to go electronic for virtually all of their claims processing needs, Eyefinity^SM has announced that more than 800 insurers are available through its speedy new eClaim system.

Initially available only for VSP, Aetna and Cigna claims, the system now links doctors with a wide range of insurers, from major national and state programs like Medicare and Medicaid, to regional plans such as Blue Cross and Blue Shield.

"We're very excited to announce the expansion of our electronic claims capabilities. It's one more way we're bringing together the entire industry in ways that improve the delivery of eye care," said Don Yee, President and CEO of Eyefinity. "Many offices are already telling us how efficient and convenient this new service is, particularly because they can submit virtually all of their claims electronically and all in one location."

Laura Fessenden, Insurance Coordinator with Family Eye Center in North Carolina, agreed. "The eClaim expansion is outstanding. Any professional subscriber to your Web site that does not utilize the services offered is missing a wonderful opportunity to take control of their financial future through the ease of operation of eClaim."

Meanwhile, ease of use and faster payment make Donella Callen an ongoing supporter of the service. "The system is easy to use and we get paid much faster on our Aetna and Cigna claims than we did previously," says Callen, Administrative Assistant at Dr. Kenneth Eckart's eye care practice in Irving, Texas.

Developed in cooperation with independent eye care practitioners, eClaim is a faster, more powerful and streamlined version of the company's current electronic claims submission programs. The doctor-friendly claim form is based on the HCFA 1500 format -- the standard form required by the federal government in all Medicare and Medicaid transactions -- resulting in greater accuracy, uniformity and the added convenience of using one site for multiple claims submissions.

Eyefinity is dedicated to transforming the eyecare industry with innovative and fully integrated online business solutions, linking independent eyecare professionals with optical labs, manufacturers and consumers for superior patient care and smart practice management. Headquartered in Sacramento, California, Eyefinity serves more than 16,000 private eyecare practices and processes millions of transactions monthly.