RADNOR, Pa.— Lincoln Financial Group (NYSE:LNC) is adding a series of new benefit choices and value-add services now available with its Lincoln DentalConnect product for employer benefit packages. Lincoln DentalConnect plans will now include the Lincoln VisionConnect discount vision program, powered by HealthAllies, Inc., and the EPIC Hearing Service—at no additional cost—for new and existing Lincoln DentalConnect PPO and indemnity members.

Lincoln DentalConnect dental members get access to Lincoln’s VisionConnect program, which provides access to discounted rates on a variety of vision services, procedures and retail purchases. The Lincoln VisionConnect Discount Vision plan features include an annual eye exam with a maximum cost of $40 per member; discounts on a variety of products such as contact lenses, eyeglasses and lens options; and savings on laser and vision correction procedures.

The Lincoln VisionConnect discount plan is administered by HealthAllies, Inc., a discount vision plan organization located in Glendale, Calif. The plan provides discounts at certain vision care providers for vision services but does not make payments directly to the providers of vision services. The Lincoln VisionConnect discount plan member is obligated to pay for all vision care services but will receive a discount from those vision providers who have contracted with the discount plan organization.

Lincoln DentalConnect members, their dependents and extended family members, can now also take advantage of Lincoln’s EPIC HSP, which offers a network of more than 4,400 credentialed professionals providing comprehensive hearing services.

“Maintaining our dental care, vision and hearing greatly impacts our quality of life and productivity, but it also has significant impact on our overall physical condition,” said Eric Reisenwitz, senior vice president of Group Protection Market Solutions at Lincoln Financial Group. “We know that oral health has been linked to serious ailments such as heart disease, while vision exams can help detect issues such as diabetes. With the addition of discount vision and hearing services to our PPO and indemnity dental offering, employers can offer a comprehensive benefit that can help their employees take charge of their health and wellness.”

Lincoln Financial Group is the marketing name for Lincoln National Corporation (NYSE:LNC) and its affiliates. With headquarters in the Philadelphia region, the companies of Lincoln Financial Group had assets under management of $174 billion as of September 30, 2012. Through its affiliated companies, Lincoln Financial Group offers: annuities; life, group life, disability and dental insurance; employer-sponsored retirement plans; savings plans; and comprehensive financial planning and advisory services.