Clinical Report: Practicing Optometry in a Federally Qualified Health Center

Overview

This report discusses the role of optometrists in Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHCs), highlighting the significant need for primary care optometry services in underserved communities. It emphasizes the unique opportunities these centers provide for improving access to eye health and vision care.

Background

FQHCs play a crucial role in delivering primary care services to underserved populations, regardless of insurance status. With a limited number of optometrists employed in these centers, there is a pressing need for primary care optometry to address the high prevalence of ocular conditions such as diabetic retinopathy and glaucoma in these communities. Understanding the practice environment within FQHCs can help optometrists make informed career decisions.

Data Highlights

FQHCs employ only 400 full-time equivalent optometrists, representing <1% of the 45,000 optometrists in the U.S.

Key Findings

• FQHCs provide integrated, patient-centered care to underserved populations.
• Optometrists in FQHCs can diagnose and treat various ocular conditions, including diabetic retinopathy and glaucoma.
• FQHCs offer a multidisciplinary approach, incorporating medicine, dentistry, and pharmacy services.
• Practicing in an FQHC can be gratifying and allows optometrists to be valuable members of the healthcare team.
• There is a growing interest from FQHCs in adding optometric services to meet community needs.

Clinical Implications

Optometrists considering a career in FQHCs should recognize the potential for impactful practice in underserved areas. Engaging with local FQHCs to advocate for optometric services can enhance community health outcomes and provide fulfilling career opportunities.

Conclusion

Practicing optometry in FQHCs presents a unique opportunity to address significant healthcare disparities while providing essential eye care services. This model not only benefits patients but also enriches the professional lives of optometrists.

References

1. American Diabetes Association, ADA, 2025 -- Standards of Care in Diabetes—2026
2. Optometric Management, Accessing Medical Insurance Panels for Comprehensive Optometry, 2025
3. Optometric Management, Explain the Earliest Symptoms of Presbyopia, 2023
4. Optometric Management, Become the Cream of the Crop, 2022
5. Optometric Management — Practice Pulse
6. The American Diabetes Association Releases “Standards of Care in Diabetes—2026” | American Diabetes Association
7. Diabetic Retinopathy Preferred Practice Pattern® - PubMed