VA Optometry Residencies

The Department of Veterans Affairs has the largest optometry clinical
training program in the United States. Nationwide, there are over 100
ACOE accredited post-graduate residency and more than 950 externship
positions available annually for clinical training. Former VA residents
are among the most successful and nationally recognized individuals
within the profession.

In today's changing health care environment, it is important to plan for
the future. All current indicators suggest that the demand for
optometrists with residency training will continue to increase. Already,
many of the best jobs require post-graduate residency certification.

Regardless of ultimate career goals, a VA residency can be an excellent
"stepping stone." The opportunity to acquire an outstanding position
within a practice or an HMO is enhanced by having completed a VA
residency. Prior VA residents are also given preference for VA staff
positions. Many others have obtained faculty appointments at a School or
College of Optometry due to their VA residency credentials.

#### 

#### ![](media/image1.png){width="3.107638888888889in" height="1.1277777777777778in"}[Unique Benefits of a VA Residency]{.smallcaps}

-   An outstanding 12 month (July 1 - June 30) clinical patient care
    experience serving a challenging and rewarding veteran population

-   A stimulating interdisciplinary environment where the resident
    learns to coordinate quality primary optometric eye care with other
    health care services to maximize patient care outcomes and learning
    experiences

-   Research and academic opportunities mentored by experienced
    clinicians who are among the most published optometrists worldwide

-   Vacation, national holidays, and sick days along with authorized
    absence for approved continuing education

-   Competitive annual salary

-   Health & Life Insurance plans available

***Each VA residency program is unique as experiences and opportunities
are different at each site. More specific residency program information
can be obtained by contacting the individual sites.***

####  [Residency Training]{.smallcaps}

All residents receive training in primary eye care, serving as part of
an interdisciplinary team working to provide high quality patient care.
With a primarily geriatric patient population, ocular disease management
is a significant portion of the training experience. Residents augment
their training through various medical service rotations, grand rounds,
and/or other professional development activities.

#### [Low Vision Rehabilitation]{.smallcaps}

In addition to the above mentioned advanced competence areas, certain
programs offer some training in low vision care. This experience
typically includes exposure to a professional team of highly qualified
providers with unique skills for care of visually impaired veterans.

#### [Eligibility Criteria]{.smallcaps}

Applicants must be U.S. citizens, have passed Parts I & II of the NBEO
examinations, and have received a Doctor of Optometry degree from an
ACOE accredited School or College of Optometry by July 1 of the
residency year. Prior to residency completion, the applicant is required
to obtain state licensure.

#### [Application]{.smallcaps}

Transcripts, NBEO scores, letters of recommendation, and on-site
interviews are factors considered for selection to a VA residency
program. All applications are submitted through the Optometry Residency
Matching Service, Inc. (ORMS) at:

*http://www.optometryresident.org*

> DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS
>
> ![](media/image2.jpeg){width="2.5381944444444446in"
> height="1.7145833333333333in"}

VHA OPTOMETRY SERVICE POST-GRADUATE RESIDENCY PROGRAMS

> Director, Optometry Service (112A1)
>
> Veterans Health Administration
>
> 103 South Gay Street, Room 714
>
> Baltimore, Maryland 21202-4061
>
> Phone: (410) 779-1576
>
> Fax: (410) 779-1581
>
> Website: *<http://www.va.gov/optometry>/*