Optical, podiatric, audiology benefits and mental healthcare are provided through District Council 37 (DC 37). These benefits are effective on the first day of the month following 90 days of employment.
Optical Benefits
The standard optical benefit is available to the member and his/her eligible dependents once every two years, measured exactly two years from the last day of service. The benefit consists of an eye examination, lenses and frames.
There are three ways of using the optical benefit: using the voucher, getting direct reimbursement or using the DC 37 Vision Center at 115 Chambers Street in Manhattan.
Appointments at the DC 37 Vision Center can be made by calling 212-766-4452, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., beginning the last Monday of each month and each subsequent day until all appointments are booked for the next six-to-eight-week period. Appointments cannot be made before your eligibility date. If you decide to choose from the list of participating vision providers other than Chambers Street, call 212-815-1531 to request a voucher.
Audiology Service
The DC 37 Audiology benefit, operated by Hear & See Right, Inc., is offered at the DC 37 Health Center, 115 Chambers Street in Manhattan. Members only. Included are audiologic evaluations by an audiologist and, if necessary, a hearing aid. For an appointment call 212-791-2126 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., Monday to Friday.
Podiatry Service
The DC 37 Podiatry benefit, operated by the Health Options Medical, P.C. is offered at 115 Chambers St., NYC 10007 (212-766-4455) and at 186 Joralemon St., Brooklyn, N.Y., 11201 (718-625- 2544). Available only to members, covering a maximum of 6 visits per year, services include routine foot care, orthopedic care and general podiatric medical care.
Personal Service Unit
Professionally trained social work staff can help with emotional and family concerns, alcoholism, drug abuse, health problems and adjustment to retirement. Information is available on a wide range of social services in the community. Short-term individual and group counseling is available. Call 212-815-1260, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., for a screening evaluation.
For more about the PSU and what to expect when calling, see Personal Service Unit FAQ's.
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