In-network optometrist won’t submit claim to vision insurance for eyeglass frames

I’m located in Ohio. My vision insurance is through Anthem Blue View Vision, which I think is affiliated with EyeMed. My benefits say I’m eligible for partial reimbursement on either (A) contacts + frames or (B) frames + eyeglass lenses. To get the most money back, I chose option A when it came time for new prescriptions.

I ordered my contacts from 1-800-Contacts (in-network), and that claim went through perfectly fine. But when I ordered new prescription glasses from an in-network optometrist, their office told me they “can’t submit an in-network claim for frames only” because insurance would supposedly deny the claim, since there’s no way for them to prove the frames aren’t for sunglasses. 🤨

Isn’t that literally what CPT codes are for when submitting claims? Eyeglass frames and sunglasses have different codes, right?

Then they instructed me to file an out-of-network claim, which would reimburse me about 60% less than my in-network benefit would. But why would they suggest that if they’re saying insurance would deny an in-network claim? Going by their logic, it seems insurance would just deny an out-of-network claim for the same reason.

This definitely raises a red flag for me — especially since they won’t even try submitting an in-network claim. Worst-case scenario, it gets denied like they’ve been saying it would. So what?

Has anyone else run into pushback like this? Am I completely missing something?

It’s my understanding that in-network providers are required to file claims under their agreement with the insurance company. This seems like a clear violation of their contractual obligation.

I did call Anthem Blue View Vision once already, but the rep I got wasn’t very knowledgeable or helpful. I’m planning to try again this week.