The American Optometric Association (AOA), founded in 1898, is the leading authority on quality eye and vision care and a national advocate for public health. The AOA represents more than 50,000 doctors of optometry (O.D.s), optometric professionals, and optometry students across the United States.

Doctors of optometry play a vital role in health care. As primary health care providers, they are extensively trained to examine, diagnose, treat, and manage:

• Eye and vision conditions
• Ocular diseases and injuries
• Systemic diseases that affect the eyes

In fact, doctors of optometry provide more than two-thirds of all primary eye care in the United States.

For individuals seeking care, the AOA offers tools to help you find a doctor of optometry near you and learn more about eye health and vision topics.

Vision and Mission

Vision
To be the acknowledged leader and recognized authority for eye and vision care worldwide.

Mission
To advocate for the optometry profession and support doctors of optometry in meeting the health and vision care needs of the public.

AOA Entities and Partnerships

The AOA has developed several entities and partnerships to support its members and advance the profession:

• AOAExcel® – Provides business and career resources for optometrists
• AOA-PAC – Supports advocacy and public policy efforts
• Optometry Cares® — The AOA Foundation – Focuses on public health, education, and charitable initiatives

The AOA also collaborates with organizations such as the Health Care Alliance for Patient Safety (HCAPS) to promote patient safety and improve care outcomes.

AOA by the Numbers

• 50,000+ members, including doctors of optometry, students, and paraoptometric staff
• 51 affiliated state associations, plus student and armed forces affiliates
• Founded in 1898
• $27M+ in annual revenue
• Nearly 300 committees supporting the profession
• 80 employees nationwide

AOA Locations

The AOA operates two primary member-focused offices:

• St. Louis, Missouri
• Greater Washington, DC area