Federal Advocacy
Citing array of concerns and complaints, Congress ramps up scrutiny of vision benefit manager (VBM) industry
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.
AOA-PAC election report: Optometry has outsized impact on 2024 elections
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 how advocates can get more involved in the fight in our nation’s capital for patients and the future of the profession.
How the AOA and affiliates are fighting for reimbursement and coverage fairness
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.
Lawmakers host AOA, patient and consumer advocates for VBM abuse briefing as Congress expands probes
At the request of a key U.S. House committee, AOA and patient and consumer advocates briefed lawmakers and staff on growing vision benefit manager (VBM) abuses as Capitol Hill leaders increasingly probe their costly, controlling and care-limiting schemes.
Take Action, Secure Change
Are you ready for the Eyeglass Rule of 2024?
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.
NIH, NEI consolidation plan ‘jeopardizes’ vision research, draws AOA opposition
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.
Bill seeks better fix to Medicare Physician Fee Schedule cuts
The AOA supports a Senate bill introduced Aug. 1 that would allow for greater flexibility and stability under the Physician Fee Schedule.
How Chevron ruling could impact optometry
A recent Supreme Court ruling could call into question certain federal regulations. The AOA is seeking feedback on regulations that burden your practice.
Takeaways from CMS’ proposed 2025 Physician Fee Schedule
The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services released its proposed rule changes last week. The proposals recognize the value of vision care and the need for greater access to care for patients.
FTC issues 10-year Eyeglass Rule update as AOA renews demand for crackdown on medical device scammers
A nearly decade-long rule review ends with new requirements for prescribers, yet commissioners abandon two once-proposed, damaging policies after AOA insistence.