Clinical Eye Care
As eclipse edges closer, AOA promotes safe viewing
Doctors of optometry demonstrate their expertise as excitement builds over the April 8 total solar eclipse. AOA President Ronald L. Benner, O.D., urges the public to watch the event “safely and wisely.”
What do the experts say on genetic testing for IRDs?
Genetic testing and counseling are critical for patients with inherited retinal diseases (IRDs). A new AOA resource offers insights into the role doctors of optometry play in considering genetic testing for IRDs, including providing in-office testing or referring to offices that do.
Pediatric keratoconus prevalence higher than believed, may change care approach
Sensitive screening in pediatric populations can help promote early diagnosis and intervention, ultimately saving vision, improving patients’ quality of life and preventing the need for corneal transplantation surgery.
Link between eye examinations and fall prevention in older adults
📽️ Comprehensive eye examinations are among the chief ways of preventing potentially deadly falls in adults 65 years and older, according to the American Public Health Association’s (APHA’s) newly released policy statement. For many people at risk of falling, an annual eye examination could be a lifesaver, the APHA statement says.
Educate Your Patients
As the nation’s primary eye health care providers, doctors of optometry must inform patients on how a comprehensive eye exam is a critical part of overall health maintenance. Use these resources to educate patients.
Making blurry vision clear
February is Low Vision Awareness Month. Take note of considerations for enhancing success with near magnification.
Unblurring the lines
As Americans grow older, the eyes show their age, too. The lens loses elasticity, causing a slow decline of accommodation. And patients, in a sense blindsided by this natural sign of aging, head to their doctor of optometry to help preserve their quality of life at work, home and play. Doctors of optometry are in a unique position to help patients preserve their quality of life and independence as presbyopia advances. Fortunately for patients and doctors, there have never been more options for managing presbyopia.
‘Inadequate to meet demand’: Report spotlights declining ophthalmology workforce as America’s eye health needs grow
Ophthalmology’s report paints a stark contrast between the two eye care physician workforces as the surgical specialty’s workforce adequacy plummets to second worst in coming decade.
131 vision-friendly holiday gifts for children
For several years, Kellye Knueppel, O.D., who practices in Wisconsin, has published a list of toys and games that can support the development of children’s vision. Find out what’s on her “nice” list.
Appreciating optometry’s value to patients with diabetes and their primary care physicians
The American Diabetes Association® (ADA) reported, in time for National Diabetes Month in November, that total annual costs of diabetes in 2022 was $412.9 billion, most of it in direct medical costs. How can doctors of optometry help in the fight to lower the prevalence of diabetes?
9 benefits of introducing laser procedures into your practice
Doctors of optometry should consider the benefits of adding office-based laser procedures, such as YAG capsulotomy (after cataract surgery) or selective laser trabeculoplasty (SLT, for glaucoma), to their practice.