Paraoptometric Certification Newsletter
from the AOA Commission on Paraoptometric Certification

April, 2004

In This Issue

• Message from the Chair
• Ask the Expert
• Organizing for Certification Renewal
• Optometry's Meeting
• Updated Schedule of Examinations
• Congrats!
• Sponsor Recognition

Message from the Chair

Fellow paraoptometrics, I would like to start my comments with a word of congratulations to all of you who promote the field of optometry and paraoptometry. This list includes, but is not limited to the following: paraoptometrics working all over the world who are seeking to further the field of optometry as a whole; the optometrists who desire to see their staff excel and become educated to provide the highest level of care available to their patients and staff members; the volunteers who spend countless, and sometimes thankless, hours working to advance our awesome profession; the AOA organization and staff that keep our organization growing and running strong (special thanks to Darlene and Kim, who despite our rapid growth have been able to keep this giant under control), and last but not least, all of our family members who support our volunteer efforts with tremendous personal sacrifices. We have embarked on a mission to further our certification efforts throughout the country and for a lack of better words, WOW! In the 18 months that the AOA organization has promoted the field of paraoptometry, we have been able to grow from 1,600 certified technicians to over 5,600. The fever is catching on.

A few CPC goals for this new year are to research and implement computer based testing (CBT), deploy the practical portion of the CPOT test to different areas around the country, and revise and implement up-to-date and new technical areas into our testing. Don't be alarmed, these areas will be advertised well in advance. The field of optometry has advanced at a very rapid pace and we are adjusting the testing criteria to accommodate these changes. By going to CBT, we will be able to bring the tests to you locally, reducing the traveling expenses for the individuals and the offices that support certification. By continually updating the testing, we will stay current with trends within our profession.

I would like to thank the Maine Paraoptometric Association, Inc., for the first-ever attempt by a state organization to hold the practical examination. It was a well-planned, tenaciously sought out venture that turned into a total success. Special thanks to Grace Martin who has attended 3 of the practical examinations given. She came to San Diego to observe the practical and became a key player to its success. She then took this information back to her state and made this happen for all of those who couldn't leave the great state of Maine to take the test. Thank you, Maine , for leading the way.

We would like to encourage every optometrist, paraoptometric and school of optometry, as well as ophthalmic industry personnel and the general public to continue advocating for this certification. This will have an impact on the entire field of medicine when skilled technicians are in the field assisting skilled optometrists in performing the highest level of care imagined. These efforts will encourage Healthy Eyes for Healthy People.

We have a truly dedicated staff of volunteers on the CPC working diligently to bring to you a nationally recognized certification program. We are well on our way. Al Levin, O.D.; Bill Samuels, Public Member; Billie Taylor , CPOT; Patricia Schneider , CPOT; Mary Jameson, CPOT; and Cheryl Bruce, CPOT—thank you for your hard work and dedication.

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Ask the Expert

Ask the expert is an article that is included in every issue of the CPC Newsletter. The CPC welcomes your questions and urge you to submit your questions to CPC@aoa.org .

Question: What are some basic requirements that every technician should know about a patient considering refractive surgery.

Answer: Newly developed technology and surgical procedures related to refraction have resulted in a desire on the part of patients to seek information on alternatives to wearing glasses. The Paraoptometric is likely to be the first person approached for information on what can be done.

The first consideration is that not every person is a good candidate for refractive surgery. There will be limitations that are governed by the shape of the eye, the magnitude of the refractive error, dryness of the eye and other factors. The Technician should be prepared to discuss all considerations, as well as options available, including, but not limited to, contact lenses, reshaping the cornea, lens implants and the various forms of refractive surgery that have been approved for use in the USA.

There are over six thousand WEB Sites that contain information on Refractive Surgery. Just go to www.refractivesurgery.com and learn as much as you can about the benefits, risks, candidate requirements and the various procedures available. I expect that we have not seen the last of the procedures that are currently approved and are being performed by surgeons across the country.

In the final analysis, the paraoptometric needs to provide an overview of the technology and must suggest that a consultation with the Doctor of Optometry be held in order to get a professional opinion as to whether or not refractive surgery would be in the best interest of the inquiring patient. Additional information can be obtained through the AOA Library.

Notice: Responses printed in the “Ask the Expert” column are the opinion of one individual and do not necessarily reflect the opinion of the Commission on Paraoptometric Certification.

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Organizing for Certification Renewal

Whether or not your certification is due for renewal in 2004, you might want to start getting your education files organized. Here are a few tips for you:

You are responsible for keeping track of your own activities and compiling supporting documentation.

• Set up a file or binder for all CPC materials. It is very important to set up a personal procedure for tracking CPC renewal credits. You may prefer a file or pocket folder or a 3-ring binder. You will want to keep the CPC Certification Renewal Guide, supporting documents and a running list of CPC credits earned in this file.
  
• Use the CPC Log Form to keep track of your hours. There are log forms in the back of the guide to help you keep track of your activities and hours earned. At least once a year, you will want to review and update your records. A good time to check your records is when you receive your reminder letter in January of the renewal year. Keeping track of your records will make it easy for you to prepare for renewal.
  
• Keep original documentation that verifies credit earned. Retain all documentation supporting your renewal. You will need to submit this documentation when you renew. Be sure the information includes your name, date of course or activity, and is validated by the sponsor or educator. It must also state in number of hours the length of the activity or course.

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Optometry's Meeting

Are you planning to sit for the Paraoptometric Certification Examinations? If so, listen up! The AOA Commission on Paraoptometric Certification (CPC) is pleased to announce that all three levels (CPO, CPOA and CPOT) of written certification examinations will be offered. If you are planning to take any of these examinations, you must complete an official original application that is available only by contacting the CPC at 800-365-2219 ext. 210 or by downloading it from the AOA website. You will not register for the examination on the Congress Registration Form. When the application and appropriate fee(s) are received by the CPC, you will receive notification from the CPC that your application has been accepted. The deadline date for accepting applications and fees for the written examinations is May 13, 2004. Registration on-site or after the deadline date will not be permitted. The CPOT Practical Examination is also being administered at Optometry's Meeting. All rules will apply and the deadline date for accepting applications and fees for the practical examination is May 1, 2004.

While at Congress, Join Us For Breakfast

When: Thursday, June 24, 2004—6:30AM-8AM
What: Commission on Paraoptometric Certification Breakfast
Where: Orange Blossom Ballroom

Certified or just seeking more information on AOA Paraoptometric Certification, you are invited! This second annual CPC Breakfast is open to Paraoptometric Section Members/Non-Members and Optometrists. Come and listen to a full description of the nationally recognized program and why this is for you or your staff. Current certified personnel will also be recognized. This is a free event, but you must register for function 0100.

Certification Renewal Closer than you Think?

Are you due to renew in 2004? Do you need additional hours to meet the requirements for renewal? Then plan to attend Optometry's Meeting where over 51 hours of approved continuing education is being offered. Certification Preparation Courses for each level are being offered too! Register today at www.aoa.org.

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Flyer with updated certification exam dates and locations

Click this link to access the flyer with updated certification exam dates and locations [PDF]

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Congrats!

CONGRATULATIONS to the new Certified Paraoptometrics (CPO’s) listed below. Each passed the CPO examination between November 2003 and February, 2004:

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Sponsorship Recognition

CIBA Vision has sponsored the AOA Paraoptometric Certification program for the fourth consecutive year. This program owes its success to the volunteers and the generous sponsorship of CIBA Vision. While at congress, be sure to stop by booth #1400

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