Supply of spectacle frames

How are spectacle frames obtained?

Contracted optical dispensers are able to obtain frames for entitled persons from the supplier of their choice. Optical dispensers are able to choose which frames they stock, although the frames still need to be provided at the prices outlined in the visual aids pricing schedule.

See: Fee schedules page for visual aids schedule

This means that entitled persons are able to select frames, within the set price and quality parameters, from the entire range available on the market. This provides a greater range to choose from than was previously available to entitled persons.

Quality 

To ensure that frames are of high quality, the services agreements with optical dispensers include quality assurance clauses to govern the quality of frames supplied. DVA monitors contracted optical dispensers to ensure proper compliance with these clauses.

In-store range

Each optical dispenser location is required to stock a minimum number of appropriate frames, ensuring there is plenty of choice for entitled persons. These frames must be on display, and easily identifiable. The minimum range an optical dispenser must stock is 20 frames and this should be representative of the various age groups of entitled persons.

What do these arrangements mean for entitled persons? 

These arrangements mean greater choice – if an entitled person is unable to find frames to their liking in one store, they have the option of shopping around, because stores are able to stock different ranges of frames.

It is recommended that entitled persons seek advice from their optometrist and other relevant professionals before choosing spectacle frames.