- Organizations: American Optometric Association
Legal
National eyecare organizations launch campaign against NEI consolidation
#SeeWhatMatters initiative is a call to action against the proposed restructuring of the National Eye Institute and federal cuts in vision research funding.
Legal
Minnesota passes OD scope of practice expansion legislation
First new scope update in over two decades permits optometrists to administer some in-office injections and removes restrictions on several prescribing capabilities.
Business
AOA inducts new leadership during 2025 Optometry's Meeting
Vowing pushback against vision plan abuses, Jacquie M. Bowen, OD, is named president as the 2025-2026 AOA Board of Trustees are inducted.
Research
AOA report analyzes ocular risks of GLP-1RAs
Released during the 2025 Optometry’s Meeting, this comprehensive rundown dives into potential rare ophthalmic side effects associated with use—and offers clinical care recommendations.
Legal
West Virginia OD bill to permit use of ophthalmic lasers
Effective July 9, Senate Bill 565 will expand optometrists’ scope of practice to enable three specific in-office procedures.
Legal
New North Dakota bill establishes optometric telemedicine guidelines
Legislation prioritizes patient safety and increased access to standardized virtual care across the state.
Legal
Arkansas passes legislation regulating vision benefit managers
Initially set to take effect in August, Act 142 targets improved access to eye health and vision care as well as payment protections and fair reimbursements.
Legal
Congress approves physician-level pay scale for VA optometrists
New designation from bipartisan reform legislation will raise entry-level salaries and enable more competitive compensation package.
Business
AOA Excel endorses Barti Software in first-ever eyecare EHR investment
Platform targets increased practice efficiency via quicker reimbursements and AI-enabled capabilities like real-time charting and appointment scheduling.
Events
AOAExcel to host financial wellness workshop for optometrists
Kicking off in November, this virtual event offers AOA members expert advice on student loan repayment plans, retirement plan options, and free benefits.
Legal
Updated Eyeglass Rule officially takes effect
FTC implements changes to longstanding rule for optometrists and ophthalmologists intended to promote competition and consumer choices.
Events
AOA launches educational prototype for eye health awareness campaign
As part of the Eye Deserve More initiative, The Eye is designed as an immersive and interactive experience showcasing the human eye.
Events
AOA debriefs on optometric legislative and advocacy updates
Executive Director Jon Hymers provides a rundown on the latest wins, ongoing and new advocacy efforts, and a new clinician collective during Optometry’s Meeting.
Events
JJV showcases Vision Made Possible, other key initiatives at Optometry's Meeting 2024
Johnson & Johnson Vision’s President of Americas discusses contact lens technologies, doctor-patient relationships, DEI initiatives, and advocacy efforts.
Events
The Myopia Collective selects over 60 ODs to lead US myopia control efforts
Inaugural cohort of Change Agents from across the country will lead the charge to disrupt the current standard of pediatric myopia care.
Events
AOA Foundation and PERC Alliance reveal recipients of inaugural Golden Opportunity Award
Three optometrists will be honored with $50K each during Optometry’s Meeting to support underrepresented and underserved communities.
Events
CooperVision and AOA launch The Myopia Collective
Optometric initiative seeks to disrupt the current standard of care and educate/advocate for myopia management.
Legal
Florida ODs kill yet another not-a-doctor bill
Just 9 months after the governor’s veto of S.B. 230, legislators failed to continue the state’s ongoing ‘eyeball wars.’
Events
Eye safety tips you need to know ahead of the solar eclipse
Leading eyecare organizations and clinical experts offer their professional advice for safely watching this year’s big event on April 8.
Legal