Virginia Program Information
What are the eligibility requirements?
Eligibility criteria for RT/IL Services are determined when an individual has a severe visual disability, as reported by the individual or observed by the Rehabilitation Teacher to include:
- The severe visual disability constitutes a substantial impediment to personal independent functioning.
- Independent living goals are feasible.
- Need to gain or maintain independence within the home and/or community.
- Has the ability to adjust to their level of impairment.
A Functional Vision Assessment (FVA) will be completed by the RT during the first Face-to-Face interview with the individual. Should a current eye report not be available at the time of Face-to-Face interview, the RT may rely on the FVA to determine eligibility. However, efforts should continue to be made to obtain a current eye report whenever possible, especially for individuals seeking Low Vision Services.
How do I connect with the program?
DBVI accepts referrals for RT/IL Services for individuals who are Blind, Vision Impaired, and Deafblind who are interested in obtaining, regaining, or maintaining their desired level of independence. DBVI also accepts referrals from the individual, family members, friends, physicians, advocates, service providers, and other interested stakeholders.
Contact Info
Website: VA Department for the Blind and Vision Impaired Home
Dave Fuller
Director of Rehabilitation Teaching and Independent Living Services
Department for the Blind & Vision Impaired
Call: (804) 371-3140
Toll Free: (800) 622-2155
dave.fuller@dbvi.virginia.gov
What is the process for applying for services?
DBVI has six Regional Offices across the Commonwealth of Virginia (Richmond, Staunton, Roanoke, Fairfax, Bristol, and Norfolk). Individuals seeking services should contact the regional office that serves the region where the individual resides.
Contact information for each office can be found on the DBVI website: DBVI Offices
The individual will be placed in contact with an Intake Specialist who will conduct a brief interview over the phone. The Intake Specialist will also request a copy of the individual’s most recent eye examination report (less than one year old, if possible). The Intake Specialist can assist the individual with obtaining the report.
The referral is then assigned to a Rehabilitation Teacher (RT). The RT contacts the individual for a detailed, in-person interview. The RT will work with the individual to determine the need for services, which services are needed, develop an individualized rehabilitation plan, and complete the necessary paperwork. The RT then works to open the case and begin the RT service plan.
What documentation is required?
Whenever possible, the individual will be asked to submit their most recent eye examination report (preferably one year old or less). The report should include the diagnosis for the vision loss, visual acuities, and prognosis.
What services are available?
Rehabilitation Teaching Services, Orientation and Mobility Training, Educational Services, Vocational Services. Library Services, Rehabilitation Technology Services, DeafBlind Services, Low Vision Services, Business Relations, Students and Transition Services.
For those individuals seeking extensive training, the Virginia Rehabilitation Center for the Blind and Vision Impaired is also an option:
Virginia Rehabilitation Center for the Blind and Vision Impaired
DBVI Rehabilitation Teaching Services Video
DBVI Rehabilitation Teaching Services - audio described