AOA Special Report: Being Black in Optometry
Optometry as a profession has made colossal strides throughout history. From the time optometrists were first licensed in 1901 in Minnesota; to 2004 when amplification legislation was enacted in Vermont stating that every state practice act formally included the term diagnose as part of the optometrist’s scope of practice; to today, as optometrists are recognized as essential care providers and part of the COVID-19 vaccinator workforce.
While there have been monumental achievements, challenges remain for the profession to address. One of those challenges is ensuring diversity.
And if optometry’s goal is to deliver eye care across the globe, increasing access for all, it is much more attainable through a diverse profession that reflects a diverse population. What has been the experience of Black doctors in optometry over the past several decades? Five AOA members share that perspective. Read more.

New noteworthy optometry codes
Changes in coding and reimbursements worth knowing. Meanwhile, with the clock winding down on 2024, the AOA continues to press for Congress to act on reforms that would give doctors of optometry an annual, permanent inflationary Medicare payment tied to the Medicare Economic Index.
Setting the tone for Optometry’s Meeting® in Music City
🔊 Hear why colleagues say the annual AOA and AOSA member meeting is the place to be this June 19-22, 2024, and learn how you can get priority access to registration before everyone else this January.
3 events in 2023 that show why giving to InfantSEE® is vital
Check out how InfantSEE® used donations in 2023 and consider making an end-of-year gift to support the program in 2024 and beyond.