The American Academy of Ophthalmology (AAO) announced the establishment of a new membership group that will support allied health professionals and invite members of the Association of Technical Personnel in Ophthalmology (ATPO) to join.
Let’s start with ATPO.
ATPO is an organization of allied ophthalmic personnel (AOP).
Per the ATPO website, the organization is focused on supporting the delivery of physician-led patient care through education (including continuing education), training, career development, and advocacy for AOP.
And what’s this new group called?
The AAO has dubbed it “American Academy of Ophthalmic Professionals” (AAOP).
Why create a new group?
According to AAO CEO Stephen D. McLeod, MD, well-trained clinical teams play a vital role in delivering comprehensive, high-quality care to patients.
“As the principal source of continuing education and career development for all of ophthalmology, the Academy is eager to support allied health professionals who partner with physicians in protecting sight and empowering lives,” he stated.
Gotcha. And which AOP are eligible to become members of AAOP?
Membership is open to ophthalmic clinical personnel such as:
- Ophthalmic assistants
- Technicians
- Technologists
- Surgical and keratorefractive techs
- Photographers
- Nurses
- Orthoptists
Eligible members must be employed by a current paid ophthalmologist member of AAO.
An additional note, optometrists and commercial reps are not eligible for membership.
So what’s being offered to members?
Per AAO, AAOP members will receive networking opportunities for career growth and gain access to up-to-date information within the ophthalmic field
Of interest: a new technician learning track will be unveiled at the 2023 AAO annual meeting in November.
What other resources are available?
New training and educational components include:
- AAO 2023 discounted registration fee and technician track registration
- Includes access to AAOP technician track; clinical courses; ASORN nurse’s track; AAOE practice management courses; and ophthalmic marketplace
- Quarterly clinical teams express digital newsletter
- AAOP-Talk
- Members-only website for real-time connection with peers.
- Academy Store product discounts (up to 40%)
Click here to learn more.
Is there a membership fee?
Yup, annual dues are $135 with memberships running from January 1 to December 31, regardless of the application date.
When can I join?
AAOP will begin admitting members in August 2023.
And lastly … where do I register?
Click here and scroll to the bottom to download the application!