The Veterans Health Administration (VHA) Optometry Service was created by Public Law 94-581 on October 21, 1976. Within the Office of Specialty Care Services, optometry and ophthalmology are equal partners working together to provide the full spectrum of primary, secondary and tertiary eye care services. By utilizing the complementary strengths of both eye care professions, our Nation's Veterans have access to eye and vision care services with Integrity, Commitment, Advocacy, Respect and Excellence. These “I CARE” core values underscore the obligations inherent in VA’s mission: "To fulfill President Lincoln's promise to care for those who have served in our nation's military and for their families, caregivers and survivors."
VA Optometry National Program Office Staff
Executive Director: Acting, Daniel Russell, O.D.
Deputy Director: Acting, Jarett Mazzarella, O.D.
Administrative Officer: Ms. Kathleen Gernhart
VHA Optometry Service National Program Office (11SPEC19)
410-637-4754
Email: kathleen.gernhart@va.gov
Click here for Veteran Eye Care Resources
Public Affairs Inquiries
All public affairs inquiries should be directed to the Department of Veterans Affairs Public and Intergovernmental Affairs Office at (202) 273-6000.
National VA Toll-free Numbers
Click here for toll-free numbers for contacting the Department of Veterans Affairs.
For further questions, use the ASK VA (AVA) portal: Ask.VA.gov | Veteran Affairs
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