VA Boston Healthcare System

Advanced Low Vision Clinic

The Mission of the Advanced Low Vision Clinic located at the Jamaica Plain Campus is to support Veterans and active duty service members with low vision and blindness, to help them regain their independence and quality of life, and to enable their successful integration into family and community life.

Services:

- Low vision evaluations and therapy are personally tailored to the patient’s needs.
- A low vision examination by an optometrist, and if appropriate, prescription of optical and/or electronic devices. A wide spectrum of low vision devices is available by prescription.
- A certified Low Vision Therapist provides a detailed evaluation identifying visual problems affecting activities of daily living, communication, educational pursuits, vocational activities, leisure and social activities, and community involvement. When indicated, therapy may involve prescribed low vision devices, adaptive equipment, environmental modifications, and local, regional, and national resources.
- A certified Orientation and Mobility Specialist assesses the functional needs of a patient in order to be a safe independent traveler with low vision. Some areas of concern are glare, object and drop-off detection, awareness of traffic, and ability to read street signs. When appropriate, prescribed low vision devices are included in mobility training.
- This is a non-copayment clinic.
- Availability is within 14 days of desired appointment date.
- Services may be provided in as few as 1 or 2 visits, or more if needed depending on the patient's goals.

Ask your VA eye care provider to request a consult with Optometry "Advanced Low Vision," or contact us and we will help with the referral process.

Who is Eligible?

Veterans and Active Duty service members with low vision or legal blindness who are eligible for VA health care and have a VA primary care provider.

Hours of Operation:

Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday from 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Contact Information:

Jamaica Plain Campus
8th floor, Room 8B-52
150 So. Huntington Ave
Boston, MA 02130
Phone: 857-364-5543

Helpful Links:

VA Boston Optometry Services
VA Optometry Service 
VA Blind Rehabilitation Service

Veteran Comments:

Dear Dr. Connell,

I wish to say thank you in my own way,
To two doctors at the Low Vision Clinic here at the VA. For the many hours spent with me,
They were the "Wind Beneath My Wings" for me to see.

With patience and compassion, with care and attitude, They have earned my sincere gratitude,
I was able to understand their service options.
And the respect paid to me, not only as a vet, but to me personally.

To be serviced by knowleged staff, for to help vets Is the best remedy and aid they could beget.
I am grateful indeed. for the high measure of understanding And support which has been given to me.

- For Now -

I'm able to read the written word with equipment given to me.
To read my mail, instead of my neighbor reading it to me.
To read my bills, no longer to be embarrassed by strangers.
To read my medical reports, which should be private.
For now I will embrace my new life they have given me.
                                                     - A VABHS Veteran