Congressional support for vision benefit manager (VBM) reforms continues to build with the latest bill introduced seeking to rebalance the relationship among plans, patients and their doctors.

While providing care to those who cannot afford it is an act of humanitarianism, using a promotional approach to a “free” eye exam poses ethical and professional concerns, the AOA’s Ethics & Values Committee warns.

The bipartisan Dental and Optometric Care Access (DOC Access) Act takes on the abusive practices by Vision Benefit Managers and seeks rebalance in relationship between plans, patients and their doctors.

Roughly 70% of primary and medical eye care services are provided by VA Optometry, and this latest congressional approval will help the VA better recruit and retain doctors of optometry to help preserve that level of care.

With a direct message to the U.S. Attorney General, the Oversight Committee set an accelerating pace for a growing number of Capitol Hill and agency inquiries focused on plan abuses.

Tap into the AOA’s interactive 2024 elections map to see how hundreds of pro-optometry U.S. House and Senate candidates fared and learn about how advocates can get more involved in the fight in our nation’s capital for patients and the future of the profession.

Throughout 2024, the AOA, affiliates and doctors of optometry across the country have stood up for reimbursement and coverage fairness, supporting optometric practice success and doctors' ability to deliver quality patient care.

The Federal Trade Commission issued its updated Eyeglass Rule after an extended review. The rule, which takes effect Sept. 24, requires doctors of optometry to get patient confirmation that they had received a copy of their prescription at the completion of an eye exam.

The National Eye Institute (NEI) is the leading agency for conducting and supporting eye health and vision research and public education—but it could be a federal budget consequence.

The AOA supports a Senate bill introduced Aug. 1 that would allow for greater flexibility and stability under the Physician Fee Schedule.