Sacramento CA, November 16, 2006 - VSP, the nation's largest vision benefits provider, announced today a commitment to increase funding for its Vision Loans^SM program to $10 million. The expansion doubles VSP's initial funding pledge of $5 million in 2003.

VSP also announced the launch of Vision Loans^SM in Alabama, Florida, and Tennessee, which increases the program's reach to 16 states. Vision Loans^SM is also available in California, Colorado, Idaho, Illinois, Indiana, Michigan, Missouri, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Oregon, Texas and Washington.

"VSP is committed to helping private practice eye doctors grow and fulfill their dreams of practice ownership," said VSP President and CEO Rob Lynch. "The Vision Loans^SM program is one of the many ways that VSP helps expand the community's access to exceptional eyecare. In the coming months VSP will announce further innovations to this important program."

Vision Loans^SM, formerly Vision One Loans, provides funds to private-practice eye doctors for the purchase of their first practice. Loans can be used for partnership buy-ins, down payments, and practice purchases. Since its inception in 2003, Vision Loans^SM has issued loans totaling more than $13 million.

Vision Loans^SM is a joint effort by VSP and Vision One Credit Union. Loans are administered by Vision One Credit Union and are subject to credit approval and standard documentation. Loan payments are returned to the program fund and used for future loans to qualified eye doctors seeking private practice ownership. Loan applicants who are not VSP network doctors are required to demonstrate qualifications to join the VSP network and submit a membership application.

For more information contact Vision One's Lending Division at (800) 327-2628.

About VSP
VSP provides comprehensive eyecare benefit plans to more than 47 million members nationwide. VSP's Sight for Students program has helped more than 360,000 low-income/uninsured children receive free eyecare services since its inception in 1997. Recognized by Fortune Magazine for seven consecutive years as one of best places to work in America, VSP ranks "Highest in Member Satisfaction Among National Vision Plans, Three Years in a Row" by J.D. Power and Associates. For more information, visit us online at www.vsp.com.

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