Optometrists and eye doctors in District of Columbia

For most healthy adults, every one to two years. Annually if you wear contact lenses, are over 60, have diabetes, or have a family history of glaucoma. Children should be examined before starting school and then as advised.

In every U.S. state optometrists can diagnose and treat common eye conditions such as conjunctivitis, dry eye and corneal abrasions, and prescribe topical medication. Scope of practice for oral medication and minor procedures varies by state.

Usually not. Vision plans such as VSP and EyeMed let you go directly to any in-network provider. Some medical plans require a referral when the visit is billed as medical rather than routine vision.