Veterans ask us about this every week, so here is a plain-English summary. Benefits change, so confirm anything that matters with your VA care team.
What the VA covers
- Routine eye exams are covered for veterans enrolled in VA health care.
- Eyeglasses are more limited. The VA provides glasses for veterans who meet specific criteria, such as a compensable service-connected disability, former prisoner of war status, a Purple Heart, or certain medical conditions and vision loss related to treatment. Many enrolled veterans do not qualify for VA glasses and pay out of pocket.
Where Middle Georgia veterans get VA eye care
The Carl Vinson VA Medical Center in Dublin lists optometry among its services. The Dublin system also runs community clinics, including one in Macon on Thomaston Road, but not every clinic offers eye care on site. Check the location's service list or call before you drive.
Community Care
If the VA cannot see you within its drive-time and wait-time standards, you may be eligible for care from a community provider at VA expense. It requires a referral from the VA; you cannot simply walk into a private office and bill the VA. Ask your VA care team whether you qualify and which providers are in the network.
If you do not qualify for VA glasses
- You still get a copy of your prescription from the VA eye exam. Bring it to any optical shop. Best Chance Optical in Forsyth fills VA prescriptions and is veteran-owned.
- If your prescription has not changed, a Georgia optician can duplicate the lenses in your current glasses without a new exam.
- If you need an exam and the VA wait is long, a self-pay exam at Best Chance Optical starts at $45.
Best Chance Optical was founded by a U.S. Army veteran and former flight medic. See how we serve veterans and military families, or call (478) 258-3838.