How To Become Optometrist
DCP Hub · Clinical Education
Vision Care · Eye Health
Welcome to Veterans Desk, your trusted resource for connecting healthcare professionals with meaningful opportunities to serve our nation’s veterans. This guide is for Doctors of Optometry (ODs) who are interested in joining the VA Community Care Network (CCN) to deliver critical non-surgical eye care to veterans.
Step-by-Step Enrollment in the VA CCN
1
Verify Your Credentials
- Hold a valid state license to practice optometry
- Possess an active Doctor of Optometry (OD) degree from an accredited program
2
Prepare Required Documents
• State license and OD credentials
• Resume or Curriculum Vitae (CV)
• Signed W-9 for tax reporting
• Proof of malpractice insurance
• List of clinical services offered and available diagnostic equipment
3
Submit Your Application
Choose your regional enrollment portal:
4
Complete Required VA Training
Required onboarding may include:
• HIPAA and privacy compliance
• Electronic documentation and care coordination protocols
Visit:
5
Credentialing & Facility Review
- Your credentials will be verified by the regional contractor
- Practice location may be reviewed for accessibility, safety, and compliance
6
Final Contract & Service Activation
- After credentialing, you’ll receive a contract defining your role and reimbursement rates
- Once signed, you may begin providing optometric care to veterans through the VA CCN
Why Optometrists Matter to Veterans
Veterans face a wide range of vision issues related to aging, traumatic brain injuries (TBIs), diabetes, and environmental exposures during military service. Optometrists play a key role in preserving visual health by detecting early signs of systemic disease, managing chronic ocular conditions, and preventing avoidable vision loss.
As an Optometrist in the VA CCN, your role includes:
• Conducting routine and comprehensive eye exams
• Diagnosing and treating non-surgical eye diseases
• Prescribing corrective lenses and low-vision aids
• Identifying early signs of systemic conditions like diabetes and hypertension
• Coordinating care with VA ophthalmologists and primary care providers.
Key Benefits of Joining the VA CCN
Serve a Unique Population
Provide eye care to veterans whose vision has been impacted by age, service-related injuries, or chronic disease
Comprehensive Scope of Practice
Deliver diagnostics, treatment, and ongoing vision management without surgical intervention
Collaborative Care
Partner with VA specialists to ensure integrated, continuous care
Early Detection of Systemic Issues
Identify and help manage underlying health concerns that affect the eyes
Reimbursement for Services
Receive payment for medically necessary and VA-authorized services without excessive administrative burden
Meaningful Impact
Help veteran families navigate one of the most complex healthcare and service systems their children will encounter — with your expertise as the guide.
Career Support & Military Pathways
Educational Support & Professional Growth
- Participate in VA-led continuing education on eye care for high-risk populations
- Stay informed about emerging treatments and diagnostic technologies
- Access VA research on veteran health and visual impairments
- Contribute to improved quality of life and independence for visually impaired veterans
Transitioning from Military Service
- Former military ODs may be eligible for accelerated licensing in some states
- Highlight your experience treating TBI-related vision issues or deployment-related ocular trauma
- Explore VA positions that allow you to continue serving fellow veterans in civilian life
Frequently Asked Questions
What services can an Optometrist provide through the CCN?
Optometrists can deliver routine and comprehensive eye exams, diagnose and manage non-surgical eye diseases, prescribe glasses or contact lenses, and refer patients to ophthalmology when necessary.
Can Optometrists prescribe medication?
Yes. Optometrists may prescribe oral or topical medications to treat certain eye conditions, depending on state law and VA policy. Always confirm the scope of practice based on your licensing jurisdiction.
Are optical services like glasses covered?
The VA typically manages optical hardware (e.g., glasses and contacts) directly. However, exams and prescriptions related to those items may be reimbursed if authorized within the veteran’s care plan.
Is coordination with VA Ophthalmologists expected?
Absolutely. Interdisciplinary coordination ensures consistent care, especially for chronic or progressive conditions. Optometrists are expected to communicate findings and collaborate with VA providers as part of the veteran’s treatment team.
Start Your VA CCN Enrollment Today
Licensed Optometrist can begin the enrollment process in the VA Community Care Network through Optum (Regions 1–3) or TriWest (Regions 4–5). Veterans Desk provides education. The VA’s administrators handle enrollment.