June 28, 2023
I recently returned from the AOA optometry meeting in Washington, DC, where I had the pleasure of reconnecting with colleagues, friends, and leaders in our field. This conference serves as a platform to showcase the latest eye care advancements, emerging technologies, and evolving philosophies of practice. It has always been my belief that we should all actively support the AOA, investing both our time and resources in the betterment of our profession.
As in the past, the conversations in the hotel lobby bar were enlightening and invigorating. Among the many valuable insights I gained, I learned that the chair of the health committee in Congress — a physician, Bill Cassidy, MD — is remarkably supportive of optometry. In response, I promptly made a contribution to his campaign, urging others to do the same. With numerous ophthalmologists attempting to hinder our progress, having an influential supporter who holds a prominent position is a testament to our cause and deserving of our support.
Additionally, I engaged in a thought-provoking discussion with a close friend who recently joined a major ophthalmology group, despite their historical opposition to optometry’s legislative interests. Such actions exemplify hypocrisy. How can ophthalmologists testify against us and then entrust us with the care of their patients? It is evident that our commitment to always putting patients first sets us apart. While the situation may seem comical and transparent, I am immensely proud of our colleagues who embrace these opportunities. Optometry’s influence grows with each patient we care for, and when these optometrists eventually open their practices or change positions, their loyal patients will follow. Our patients recognize that we are the primary caregivers in eye care, and that sense of trust is irreplaceable.
I want to emphasize that there are numerous wonderful ophthalmologists who genuinely care about the entire eye care market and, most importantly, our patients. They acknowledge that optometry excels in all aspects of patient care.
Several years ago, ASCRS attempted to introduce a program that prohibited optometrists not working for ophthalmologists from attending their meetings. In response, a group of 55 ODs came together to meet with ASCRS leadership, aiming to challenge these rules. Promises were made to bring about change, but six years later, no progress has been made—except for the fortunate demise of the employed OD-centered meeting. Very few optometrists were willing to lecture or attend, leading to its discontinuation. Nevertheless, we must remember that our destiny lies in our hands. We must persist in supporting one another and our profession. It is through our unity and collective efforts that optometry maintains its status as the premier profession with the most exceptional doctors.
Let us continue to stand together, championing our cause and celebrating the successes we achieve, one patient at a time.
