Dr. James M. Vaught, OD
Dr. James M. Vaught has been in private practice for 25 years. His optometry practice emphasis is on primary care. Vaught Eye Associates is currently a group practice with two other optometrists and one ophthalmologist.
Dr. Vaught graduated from Furman University in 1977 with a BS in Chemistry. He then went on to receive an MS in Chemistry in 1978 from Furman. After graduation, he worked as a Research Chemist at Milliken for a year. He then was accepted at the University of Alabama Birmingham School of Optometry where he received his OD degree in 1983. Dr. Vaught graduated third in his class of 40 from UAB, where he was a member of Beta Sigma Kappa and received a B&L Scholarship Award.
Dr. Vaught has received numerous awards including:
- UAB School of Optometry Alumnus of the Year (1993)
- Outstanding Optometrist of the Year Award in SC for efforts given in passage of the TPA Bill (1993)
- South Carolina Optometric Association Optometrist of the Year Award (2000)
- Hall of Fame Award from South Carolina Optometric Physicians Association (2011)
Dr. Vaught has also held numerous positions in local and state optometric associations. He served eight years on the SC Optometric Association, rotating through all chairs including President. He served eight years on SC Board of Examiners Optometry, where he held office of President for two years. He also served as SC Optometric Association Trustee to Southeastern Conference of Optometry, and is currently serving as President Elect for SC Optometric Association for the second time.
Dr. James Vaught is an active member of the American Optometric Association, where he has served in numerous capacities. He is currently serving as President of South Carolina Board of Examiners in Optometry, as well as Interim Director of American Board of Optometry. He previously served on the Federal Legislative Action Committee, the AOA Council of Optometric Education, and the State Political Education and Statutory Scope Committee, and has visited and worked with nine other states in their attempts to expand the scope of practice legislation for Optometry. Dr. Vaught has also been a member of the Society of Eyecare Specialists for five years. In addition, Dr. Vaught has been an active participant in local civic clubs, church committees, and local government committees.
Dr. Vaught has an ongoing desire to give back to the community by providing complimentary eye exams for patients in need through such organizations as the Lion’s Club, Friendship House, Infant See, and Vision USA. He has also participated in several mission trips to underprivileged countries, providing free optometric care to those in need.
