What We Know Today
The VA is reconsidering how it buys Optician Services.
Current Status:
- No decisions have been made
- There are not changes to jobs or operations right now
- PDS continues serving Veterans under the current contract
The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is currently evaluating how it pays for the optical services you provide.
Currently, in most locations, optician services are provided through the eyeglasses contract. In the future, the VA may choose to purchase optician services directly (insourcing) or through a different contract.
At this time, no decisions have been made.
PDS’ work remains a vital part of caring for our Veterans. Every day, you help ensure Veterans receive properly fitted eyewear and high-quality care. Thank you.
While the VA considers its options, our goal is to support you and share updates as confirmed information becomes available. In the meantime, our work continues as usual, and serving Veterans remains our shared priority.
If you hear questions or speculation about optician services, please feel comfortable bringing them to your manager or HR so we can share the most accurate information available. We will also maintain the FAQ section below to share answers to common questions and provide updates as they become available.
While the VA considers its options, our goal is to support you and share updates as confirmed information becomes available. In the meantime, our work continues as usual, and serving Veterans remains our shared priority.
If you hear questions or speculation about optician services, please feel comfortable bringing them to your manager or HR so we can share the most accurate information available. We will also maintain the FAQ section below to share answers to common questions and provide updates as they become available.
Why is the VA reviewing how optician services are provided?
The VA periodically reviews how services are delivered to ensure they remain effective, efficient, and aligned with long-term goals. This review is part of that normal process and does not reflect any change in the quality of work our teams are providing.
Are there any changes to my job right now?
No. There are no changes to roles, pay, responsibilities, or daily operations at this time. Our teams will continue serving Veterans as we do today.
When will we know if anything is changing?
The VA has not shared a timeline for their review, but we expect to receive updates over the next few months. If a decision is made, we will share updates as soon as confirmed information becomes available.
What does “insourcing” mean?
Insourcing refers to the possibility of the VA providing certain services by hiring its own employees instead of contracting those services externally. At this time, this option is only being reviewed and no decision has been made.
What if I have more questions?
If you have a question that isn’t answered here, please share it with your manager or HR. If we hear a question from multiple employees, we’ll add it to this page so everyone can benefit from the answer.