A global force: Highlights from Optometry's Meeting® | 5th World Congress of Optometry

Optometry's Meeting® 2025 marks largest global gathering of optometry

More than 4,500 attendees convened June 25-28 for the 128th Annual AOA Congress & 57th Annual AOSA Conference: Optometry’s Meeting®. The event marked a first-ever collaboration with the World Congress of Optometry to foster collaboration connecting the national impact AOA, AOSA and affiliates deliver with the access and global force of optometry across the globe. And with record industry support and more than 40 new exhibitors in the Eye Care Square exhibit hall, it’s easy to see why Optometry’s Meeting continues to be the profession’s premier event.

Check out all the highlights by following Optometry’s Meeting on Facebook and the official hashtags, #optometrysmeeting and #WCO5, on the meeting’s dedicated live-running social wall.

Save the date for Optometry's Meeting 2026, June 17-20, 2026, in Phoenix!

Sign up for an early registration alert.

Special resolution honors board service of William T. Reynolds, O.D.

Before the House of Delegates concluded, AOA Past President William T. Reynolds, O.D., was recognized for his extraordinary service to the Board of Trustees, a tenure marked by courage, innovation and an unwavering commitment to the optometric community. 
 
Dr. Reynolds served on the board since 2012, guiding the profession through the unprecedented challenges of the 2020 pandemic, championing for resources and support for doctors of optometry, students and paraoptometric professionals and securing more than $2 billion in federal relief for optometric practices. His ardent and strategic advocacy for the progression of optometric scope of practice was a catalyst and guide for affiliates. Through his time of service, 12 states enacted advanced practice legislation—including authority to perform laser and other in-office procedures—thereby expanding patient access to the full breadth of optometric care. His leadership was crucial in national and state-level efforts to curb vision benefit manager abuses, protect fair marketplace practices and oppose “not-a-doctor” and other anti-optometry legislation, resolutely defending the doctor-patient relationship.   

House of Delegates elects new officers and trustees

Installed on the AOA Board of Trustees on the final day of Optometry’s Meeting 2025 was Jacquie M. Bowen, O.D., (Colorado) as president; Teri K. Geist, O.D., (Nebraska) as president-elect; Terri A. Gossard, O.D., M.S., (Ohio) as vice president; Curtis A. Ono, O.D., (Washington) as secretary-treasurer; Steven T. Reed, O.D., (Mississippi) as immediate past president; Marrie S. Read, O.D., MBA, (AFOS) reelected trustee; Jon F. Pederson, O.D. (Colorado) and Amy A. Puerto, O.D. (Louisiana), newly elected trustees.  

Not up for election this year but continuing to serve as AOA Trustees are Paul M. Barney, O.D., (Alaska), Tad R. Kosanovich, O.D., (Florida), and Karoline L. Munson, O.D., (Kentucky). 

Jacquie M. Bowen, O.D., inaugurated as 105th AOA president

Jacquie M. Bowen, O.D., was inaugurated as the 105th AOA president during Saturday’s AOA House of Delegates. In her inaugural address, Dr. Bowen highlighted the advancements and priorities she aims to accomplish during her term, including: 

• Pushing back against vision plan abuses 
• Continued support of independent practice owners, through programs such as the AOA Center for Independent Practice 
• Fostering referral relationships with fellow optometrists 

“Our always-on volunteer leadership, full-time staff, and industry advocates will continue to have your back, even when you don’t realize it, for decades to come,” Dr. Bowen said. 

“As your new president, I thank you for your trust and support. Together we will continue to shape a brighter future for optometry, one that prioritizes the highest standards of care and bravely fosters professional growth and development." 

AOA House of Delegates approves five bylaws and constitution changes

The AOA House of Delegates also approved five bylaws and constitution changes regarding membership classification and qualification, online dues payment and the Accreditation Council on Optometric Education (ACOE). Recommended by the AOA Board of Trustees, these membership and online dues payment bylaws changes stem from recommendations first proposed by a 2024 affiliate workgroup made up of the following states: 

• Arizona 
• Alabama 
• Hawaii  
• Kansas 
• Kentucky 
• Minnesota 
• Ohio 
• Pennsylvania 
• Tennessee 
• Texas 

These membership, dues and ACOE bylaws changes can be viewed below: 

• Retired Members 
• Life Members 
• Provisional Members 
• Post Graduate Members 
• ACOE  

InfantSEE® celebrates 20 years of transforming pediatric vision care

As Optometry’s Meeting kicked off at its opening session on June 25, Belinda R. Starkey, O.D., president of The AOA Foundation, shared with attendees a look at how The AOA Foundation is strengthening the profession and changing lives. 

One of the most powerful examples of that is InfantSEE®. Since 2005, more than 172,000 babies have received no-cost, comprehensive eye assessments during the most critical months of development. In 2024 alone, over 4,000 AOA-member doctors volunteered their time to detect early signs of conditions like amblyopia, strabismus—even retinoblastoma.  

Dr. Starkey shared that later this year, AOA Focus magazine will feature the success story of Piper, whose life was changed thanks to an InfantSEE assessment nearly 11 years ago. A video of Piper wearing glasses for the first time went viral and put a spotlight on why comprehensive children’s eye care is critical. Piper remains a patient of Josiah Young, O.D., the Kentucky optometrist who made her original diagnosis of farsightedness (hyperopia) during her InfantSEE exam.  

“Thank you, Dr. Young, and InfantSEE for all of the success stories we’ve collected over the past 20 years.”  

On Saturday, AOA Trustee Karoline L. Munson, O.D., liaison to the AOA InfantSEE & Children’s Vision Committee, walked the House of Delegates through the program’s history and shared a message: “As we enter our third decade, InfantSEE isn’t slowing down—its evolving,” Dr. Munson said. 

She highlighted a new initiative from The AOA Foundation in collaboration with Johnson & Johnson called See It Through, which will raise awareness, eliminate barriers and deliver real solutions, starting in individual communities and stretching across the nation. 

On behalf of the AOA, she thanked the committee and every AOA doctor who serves as an InfantSEE provider. 

AOA President Steven T. Reed, O.D., and President-elect Jacquie M. Bowen, O.D., presented three outstanding leaders with the AOA President’s Award: 

• Glen “Bubba” Steele, O.D. 
• Jennifer Zolman, O.D. 
• Reena Patel, O.D. 

AOA House of Delegates approves four resolutions

Four proposed resolutions passed the AOA House of Delegates on its concluding day, including:  

• Mobilization for Comprehensive Pediatric Eye Exams 
• Vision Plan Advocacy 
• The Vital Role of Optometry in the Veterans Health Affairs 
• Low Vision Rehabilitation 

The four resolutions are viewable at the links above. 

Mobilization for Comprehensive Pediatric Eye Exams resolves the AOA to a nationwide effort to significantly increase the number of children receiving comprehensive eye exams from optometrists before school, including diagnosis and treatment. This mobilization will prioritize public awareness, closing vision screening referral gaps, and advocating for robust federal and state policy and funding for children's eye health and vision care. 

Vision Plan Advocacy resolves the AOA and its affiliates to launch a multipronged advocacy strategy, in consultation with legal counsel, to combat unfair vision plan policies. This includes advocating for significantly increased contracting transparency, encompassing clear amendment notices, accessible communication channels, annual document updates, fee schedule access and timely credentialing processes. 

The Vital Role of Optometry in the Veterans Health Affairs resolves the AOA to oppose any policies that deprioritize eye health and vision care services for veterans within the Veterans Health Administration's Optometry Service program, while also supporting its enhanced implementation and expansion. Further, the AOA and its affiliates will continue advocacy efforts to ensure full physician status recognition for optometrists within the VA and across all healthcare settings. 

Low Vision Rehabilitation resolves the AOA to encourage optometrists to continue providing, co-managing or referring individuals with visual impairment for low vision rehabilitation. The AOA will also inform the public and stakeholders about the critical role optometrists play in this care, urging partnerships to best address evolving patient needs in low vision rehabilitation. 

Optometry's Meeting® 2025 marks largest global gathering of optometry

More than 4,500 attendees convened June 25-28 for the 128th Annual AOA Congress & 57th Annual AOSA Conference: Optometry’s Meeting®. The event marked a first-ever collaboration with the World Congress of Optometry to foster collaboration connecting the national impact AOA, AOSA and affiliates deliver with the access and global force of optometry across the globe. And with record industry support and more than 40 new exhibitors in the Eye Care Square exhibit hall, it’s easy to see why Optometry’s Meeting continues to be the profession’s premier event.

Check out all the highlights by following Optometry’s Meeting on Facebook and the official hashtags, #optometrysmeeting and #WCO5, on the meeting’s dedicated live-running social wall.

Save the date for Optometry's Meeting 2026, June 17-20, 2026, in Phoenix!

Sign up for an early registration alert.

A celebration of optometry

Attendees kicked off the weekend at the Celebration of Optometry, a fun and relaxing evening of networking with old and new connections made during three days of continuing education, industry exhibits and association business. The event, supported by Bausch + Lomb, brings together doctors of optometry, students, paraoptometrics and industry for a night of live entertainment, regional fare and networking at a Minneapolis venue. 
 
Follow the excitement on social media. 

Unique clinical cases on display at Optometry's Meeting® 2025

Two events focused on optometry residents were held this year. The Residency Forum + Panel kicked off Friday morning with a large crowd of clinicians, students and faculty who heard about resident's unique clinical cases directly handled during their residency year--offering attendees valuable key takeaways and clinical pearls. 

The Residency & Graduate Education Summit, as well as the Career Center Fair, were held in the Eye Care Square exhibit hall later this afternoon with hundreds of students meeting with residency directors and potential employers. 

AOA President Dr. Reed reflects on growth, service and optometry's future

Concluding the AOA House of Delegates session, AOA President Steven T. Reed, O.D., delivered his closing president’s report, reflecting on his personal journey and the core values of leadership. Sharing a story of his family and being the first optometrist in his family, he emphasized that personal growth isn't for self-gain but for service—to family, community and the profession. Building on his previous year's message of personal development, Dr. Reed challenged delegates to choose to create a better future through their growth, underscoring that such advancements ultimately serve the broader optometric community. He expressed profound gratitude for the privilege of serving as AOA president, acknowledging the Board of Trustees, AOA staff, and his family for their unwavering support throughout his tenure. 

New AOA report highlights rare but serious ocular risks of GLP-1RAs

Millions of Americans—roughly 6% of the U.S. adult population—take glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1RAs) for chronic diseases or weight loss. These medications can be associated with significant ocular complications, according to a new clinical report by the AOA’s Evidence-based Optometry Committee. 

At the House of Delegates, Andrew Morgenstern, O.D., director of the AOA’s clinical resources group, presented the report, titled “Glucagon-like Peptide-1 Receptor Agonists and Ocular Health: Guidance for Optometric Practice,” which provides critical guidance to doctors of optometry treating patients on GLP-1RAs. While rare, an ocular side effect of GLP-1RAs is non-arteritic anterior ischemic optic neuropathy (NAION), which can cause permanent loss of vision.  

Dr. Morgenstern emphasized that these drugs are safe and the ophthalmic side effects are rare. The report includes clinical recommendations for optometrists to know.  

'Give, act, lead’: Join optometry’s advocates

“Legislation is like chess, not checkers,” said Chair of the AOA-PAC Board of Directors and AOA Federal Advocacy Representative Jennifer Kohn, O.D. “It’s important to have the pieces in the right place. 

“We’re in the best position that we have ever been.” 

Sharing optometry’s top priorities and how AOA’s advocates are advancing them, Dr. Kohn made a call to action to the House of Delegates to give, to act and to lead by joining the AOA-PAC team. 

Those priorities will be front and center at AOA on Capitol Hill, September 28-30, in Washington, D.C. The annual hill day is a key reason why the AOA is consistently recognized as one of the most effective, respected advocacy organizations in the nation's capital with hundreds of doctors, optometry students and affiliate leaders participating. Dr. Kohn said this year’s event will be “a doozy.” 

"If you were ever going to attend, this is the one.” 

Register to attend AOA on Capitol Hill 2025. 

AOA-PAC fights and wins for optometry. It is the only political action committee working to elect and reelect pro-optometry candidates to the U.S. Senate and House of Representatives, allowing us to support the lawmakers who support us. Make a donation. 

Eye Deserve More reaches millions

There is a lot of misinformation about doctors of optometry and the importance of in-person care. This presents an opportunity to educate Americans about the importance of eye and overall health—and the critical role that doctors of optometry play.  

Since its inception in 2021, the AOA’s Eye Deserve More campaign has focused on intersecting with patients where they are to engage and educate them. From telling stories about how member doctors work with their patients in local communities to spotlighting their eye health expertise online and in the media, the campaign is effectively reaching millions of Americans year over year with the message that everyone deserves high-quality care from an AOA doctor. 

Last year was the AOA’s best year yet in terms of clicks to the doctor locator and earned media impressions, driving more than 338k patients to the AOA member doctor locator, a 273% increase since the campaign launched. The social ad announcing the launch of The Eye had two times as many shares as the latest iPhone release and four times as many shares as Samsung Galaxy launch post at the time. And for the first time since the campaign launched, “routine eye exams” ranked in the top 10 bookeddoctor visits of the year. Visit booth #1521 to learn more! 

AOA Foundation's impact: Changing lives, strengthening optometry

AOA Trustee and AOA Foundation President Belinda R. Starkey, O.D., delivered a report on the Foundation's profound impact in 2024, emphasizing its role in "changing lives" and strengthening the optometric profession. A major highlight was the 20th anniversary of the InfantSEE® program, which has provided over 172,000 comprehensive eye assessments, with over 4,000 AOA member doctors volunteering in 2024 alone. Dr. Starkey emphasized the story of "Baby Piper" whose InfantSEE story went viral near ten years ago, when as an infant, her first pair of glasses revealed her parents clearly for the first time and drew a heartwarming smile. 

Further expanding its reach, the AOA/AOSA Opportunities in Optometry grants awarded $150,000 to 100 pre-optometry students from underrepresented backgrounds, with the first cohort set to graduate this year. The new "Golden Opportunity" award provides $50,000 each for independent practice doctors. The Optometric Historical Society, through its Archives & Museum, continues to preserve the profession's heritage and share to subsequent generations of optometrists as evidenced by 32,000 downloads of its Hindsight journal. Notably, Optometry’s Fund for Disaster Relief (OFDR) had its most active year, distributing over $275,000 through 192 grants across 40 states, providing critical support to affected doctors. Dr. Starkey underscored that these vital programs are made possible by the collective contributions of doctors, reinforcing a stronger AOA for all. 

AOA honors affiliates for outstanding membership growth

AOA Trustee Marrie S. Read, O.D., M.B.A., presented the Membership Excellence Award at the AOA House of Delegates, recognizing the Delaware Optometric Association, Nevada Optometric Association and Virginia Optometric Association for their exceptional membership growth. This marks Delaware's second consecutive win. Nevada achieved a double-digit membership increase and substantial market share gain, while Virginia also saw significant growth. The AOA emphasized its continued investment in membership support through AOA Team Services, enabling affiliates to prioritize recruitment and retention. This recognition underscores the vital importance of membership growth at both affiliate and national levels for the profession's strength. 

Championing patient-centered vision care

David Cockrell, O.D., chair of the Health Care Alliance for Patient Safety (HCAPS), addressed the House of Delegates with a call to join HCAPS in safeguarding patient safety and quality care. 

AOA President Steven T. Reed, O.D., presented the Patient Safety Champion Awards, recognizing unwavering commitment to improving patient health safety through advocacy. The 2025 recipients are: 

• Charissa Lee, O.D., Head of North America Professional Affairs, Johnson & Johnson Vision 
• Michelle Andrews, O.D., Vice President, Professional and Government Affairs – Americas, CooperVision 
• Ryan Parker, O.D., Senior Director of Professional Development, EssilorLuxottica 

Learn more or become a supporter. 

AOAExcel®: Over $4.18 million generated, expanding member offerings

On the second day of AOA's House of Delegates, AOAExcel Chair Sam Pierce, O.D., and Director Bob Kehm reported a significant achievement, namely the generation of over $4.18 million in non-dues revenue returned to AOA since its founding in 2015. Dr. Pierce highlighted new benefits through endorsed business partners, including VisionHQ, Barti EHR, Lockton Affinity's new cyber liability insurance offering and a more robust AOAExcel Career Center. 

"We want to make members' lives easier and we have products and solutions that can accomplish that," Kehm says. 

Kehm emphasized that AOAExcel also features an affiliate revenue-share initiative with 35 participants, and attendees were encouraged to visit AOAExcel's endorsed partners at the Eye Care Square, reinforcing that utilizing these services directly supports the AOA's mission. 

Eye Deserve More reaches millions

There is a lot of misinformation about doctors of optometry and the importance of in-person care. This presents an opportunity to educate Americans about the importance of eye and overall health—and the critical role that doctors of optometry play.  

Since its inception in 2021, the AOA’s Eye Deserve More campaign has focused on intersecting with patients where they are to engage and educate them. From telling stories about how member doctors work with their patients in local communities to spotlighting their eye health expertise online and in the media, the campaign is effectively reaching millions of Americans year over year with the message that everyone deserves high-quality care from an AOA doctor. 

Last year was the AOA’s best year yet in terms of clicks to the doctor locator and earned media impressions, driving more than 338k patients to the AOA member doctor locator, a 273% increase since the campaign launched. The social ad announcing the launch of The Eye had two times as many shares as the latest iPhone release and four times as many shares as Samsung Galaxy launch post at the time. And for the first time since the campaign launched, “routine eye exams” ranked in the top 10 bookeddoctor visits of the year. Visit booth #1521 to learn more!

AOSA Optometry Student Bowl™ XXXIV crowns a champion

Dakotah Brandow of Western University of Health Sciences, College of Optometry, took the trophy after another AOSA Optometry Student Bowl, powered by EssilorLuxottica. The high-speed, high-stakes test of optometric knowledge pits one champion from each school against all others and is a highlight of Optometry’s Meeting year after year. Illinois College of Optometry received the competition’s Spirit Award.

Paraoptometrics honored, inspired at Optometry’s Meeting®

A packed house of attendees eagerly looked on at the Paraoptometric Awards Luncheon and the Paraoptometric Idea Exchange Thursday afternoon at Optometry’s Meeting®.   

The Paraoptometric Awards Luncheon Celebration, supported by Alcon, is the annual celebration of AOA associate-member paraoptometrics, honored for their outstanding and significant contributions to the profession. Recognized were this year's Paraoptometric Award winners:  

• Jennifer Stroupe, CPO, 2025 Paraoptometric of the Year  
• Tamara (Tami) Franklin, CPOT, 2025 Paraoptometric Lifetime Achievement Award 
• Kimberly Pickle, CPOA, 2025 Paraoptometric Community Service Award 

After the celebration, attendees participated in the Paraoptometric Idea Exchange—an engaging session for networking, sharing practice challenges and opportunities, and brainstorming ways to grow AOA associate membership. 

Future practice owners converge to explore independent practice

Doctors of optometry interested in independent practice came together in a full session conducted by the Center for Independent Practice Thursday afternoon to learn about what it takes to enter independent practice. Three cohorts of doctors who were selected to the 10-month AOA CIP Independent Practice Institute program heard from several independent practice leaders on myriad topics, including: 

• Business planning 
• Marketing and promotion 
• Financing 
• Human resources 
• Billing and insurance 
• Practice operations 
• Purchasing equipment 

To learn more about the AOA CIP Independent Practice Institute, visit https://www.aoa.org/practice/aoa-center-for-independent-practice. 

States take action to rein in plans

The AOA’s direct advocacy with health and vision plans is just one prong of its advocacy strategy. To truly make change, health and vision plans need to be better regulated. Dr. Bowen pointed to states that have taken action over the past months to implement new laws to rein in these plans. 

• In Arkansas, doctors of optometry secured major changes to how vision benefit managers operate. Signed into law on Feb. 25, this legislation addresses patient choice, supports independent practices, and ensures fairer contract terms for doctors.  
• Oklahoma also passed a new law that reins in unfair practices by dominant prepaid vision plans. This legislation helps level the playing field for optometrists, protects the doctor-patient relationship, and ensures patients have access to high-quality care. 
• Texas is building on past wins and pursued and passed groundbreaking any-willing-provider legislation just this month.  
• Nevada also made incredible progress and passed additional legislation to add clarity to provider contracts and address unfair and deceptive trade practices. 

“As we make progress, we also recognize that the fight doesn’t end with a bill signing—we’ll continue working with states to make sure these reforms are properly enforced and not undermined by the plans,” Dr. Bowen said. 

AOA ‘sounding the alarm on a growing crisis’

AOA President-elect Jacquie M. Bowen, O.D., shared with the House of Delegates the latest update on AOA’s relentless advocacy to fight for reimbursement and coverage fairness. 

“We’re sounding the alarm on a growing crisis: health insurers and vision plans are piling on administrative red tape and financial strain like never before—and it’s costing providers dearly,” Dr. Bowen said. 

She shared the following numbers: 

• $43.84 — What it costs, on average, for a doctor to fight one denied claim. 
• $19.7 billion — The total annual price tag for doctors just to get insurers to pay what’s owed. 
• 97% — The percentage of initially denied dollars that eventually were paid.  

In recognition of these growing challenges—and the unsustainable toll on doctors and practices—the AOA remains fully committed to fighting for every dollar owed to doctors. This is about more than revenue, Dr. Bowen said; it’s about ensuring fair treatment, protecting access to care, and preserving the future of the profession. 

She directed members to AOA’s daily publication, First Look, where they can learn about specific actions taken with health and vision plans—real steps to resolve real issues reported by doctors. “We’ve helped doctors get paid for improperly denied YAG procedures, reversed inappropriate contract terminations, and fought to remove providers from unjust downcoding programs. Every day, we’re directly interfacing with plans to resolve credentialing problems, claim delays, and coverage inconsistencies.” 

And the results are real: AOA advocacy efforts have returned over $7.5 million to doctors of optometry in less than 24 months.  

Vision Source All-In Membership Pledge: Standing together for the future of optometry

As a proud supporter of organized optometry, Vision Source pledged before the House of Delegates to uphold and promote 100% membership for every doctor in its practice in their affiliate association and the AOA. 

AOA President Steven T. Reed, O.D., was joined on stage with Amir Khoshnevis, O.D., Vision Source president and chief medical officer, and shared the pledge with attendees. 

“As leaders in optometry, we believe every Vision Source doctor, all 4,500 member and associate doctors of optometry, should be a dues-paying member of the American Optometric Association and their affiliated association. Supporting the AOA is not just symbolic. It is essential. Leading in our practices and in the communities we serve means standing up for our profession and securing our expanding role in health care. The AOA and its affiliates stand for optometry, fight for optometry and deliver for optometry. As a proud partner in that mission, Vision Source calls for 100% membership from our doctors. Together, we ensure a stronger future for our profession, and the patients in our care.” 

Drs. Reed and Khoshnevis signed the pledge together. 

“On behalf of the AOA and all of our affiliated associations, it is my honor to sign this pledge with Dr. Amir Khoshnevis and Vision Source." 

Advancing Leadership: Leadership Institute 2.0 nomination opportunities

Dr. Sasser continued his AOA House of Delegates address on the AOA Leadership Institute by issuing a call for 1.0 graduates of the program to apply for the next-step, 2.0 program. Building on the success of Leadership Institute 1.0, the Leadership Institute 2.0 program provides advanced tools for professional, community, and personal success. This exclusive, all-in-person, three-day workshop, limited to 50 participants, delves into topics like leading change and media training, culminating in Washington, D.C., ahead of AOA on Capitol Hill. For aspiring leaders, nominations are currently open for the 2026 Leadership Institute 1.0 program, ideal for doctors 5-10 years post-graduation in various practice settings. State leaders are encouraged to nominate at least three candidates by October. Leadership Institute 2.0 applications are also open for previous 1.0 graduates. Special thanks to Leadership Institute 2.0 sponsors, Johnson & Johnson and HOYA, for supporting these vital initiatives that cultivate impactful optometric leadership.  

Applications for the Leadership Institute 2.0 are open through June 30 and can be found here. 

Cultivating Emerging Optometric Leaders: The Leadership Institute 1.0

During the AOA House of Delegates on Thursday, AOA Trustee Paul Barney, O.D., and Devin Sasser, O.D., chair of the AOA’s Leadership Development committee, provided an update on the AOA's highly successful Leadership Institute. Now in its fifth year, the Leadership Institute is celebrating a new class of over 120 candidates graduating from its impactful six-month program. Designed to guide doctors through their leadership journey, Leadership Institute 1.0 offers highly interactive virtual and in-person sessions providing foundational knowledge from subject matter experts. Participants engage in four core sessions, covering essential skills from leadership branding to public speaking and contract negotiation. To date, over 500 participants have graduated, reflecting the program's significant reach and value. The AOA extends gratitude to Leadership Institute 1.0 sponsors, Johnson & Johnson and EssilorLuxottica, whose support helps empower the next generation of optometric leadership. This foundational program sets the stage for advanced development through Leadership Institute 2.0. 

“As you heard from these prior graduates’ testimonials moments ago, this is an invaluable opportunity to further develop your leadership skills, build confidence in leading and engage with peers from across the country,” Dr. Sasser noted. 

Nominations and applications for the Leadership Institute 1.0 close in October and November, respectively. The online application form for Leadership Institute 1.0 can be found here. 

Stronger together through turbulent times: Hymes

All that advocacy momentum is being noticed by AOA and affiliate members as evidenced by membership indicators, including a 7.4% increase in membership since June 2022 and a 90% retention rate. Hymes continued his AOA House of Delegates report by noting the challenge of membership organizations over the next decade as the Boomer generation begins retiring, and calling for a continued focus on new graduates and early career doctors of optometry. 

Toward that end, the AOA Board committed to working more closely with affiliates, mobilizing an AOA Team Services initiative that supports affiliates on both a short- and long-term basis. 

“Let’ strategize about how we can deliver more for our members—more efficiency, more ROI, even more answers for members,” Hymes said. 

Additionally, Hymes recognized the efforts of AOA’s 300-strong volunteer force, serving across 28 committees; his AOA staff; and the AOA Board of Trustees. 

“These are servant leaders who cannot give enough—blood, sweat, tears and time and treasure in service to this organization and this profession,” Hymes said. 

Hymes: $7.5 million restored to optometry practices via VBM advocacy

Since May 2023, the AOA’s vision benefit manager (VBM) advocacy has helped restore over $7.5 million in reimbursements for optometry practices—$4.5 million of that since October alone. That money represents reimbursements “forcibly extracted from plans and put back in the hands of doctors,” as a result of 61 separate types of reported plan issues, including: 

• Improper denials and downcoding 
• Inappropriate takebacks 
• Baseless decisions by biased or uninformed plan administrators 
• Unfair exclusions of doctors of optometry 

"Recognizing the special threat posed by the imbalance in the doctor-plan relationship, something pervasive across health care, though being keenly felt by optometry practices, the AOA Board laid out and has directed follow-through on a comprehensive optometry-wide approach to taking on plan and VBM abuses,” Hymes said.  

Hymes invited doctors to keep reporting plan concerns to AOA through StopPlanAbuses@aoa.org.  

AOA, affiliates working toward policy change on multiple fronts

Beyond public awareness, Hymes continued his report before the AOA House of Delegates by detailing the significant state and federal work over the past year. Hymes called attention to multiple headline-generating advocacy achievements, including: 

• A West Virginia University report on health care access that called optometry the shining example of expanding scope access, noting that “optometrists have secured the most significant expansion of clinical responsibilities in U.S. medical history.” 
   
• The direct response from optometry’s opponents with 15 so-called “not-a-doctor" bills in a dozen states, their goal aimed at diminishing the skills, education and experience of optometrists and disrupting the profession’s bond with patients and the public. Most have been favorably amended or defeated, and others are being actively monitored. 
   
• A significant achievement for the AFOS when Congress formally recognized doctors of optometry in the Department of Veterans Affairs physician pay scale, a notable recognition of optometry’s essential and expanding role in the nation’s largest health care system. 
   
• The present efforts by Congress to pass a reconciliation bill and AOA’s ongoing efforts to ensure a resolution of Medicare pay cuts, secure a tax fairness provision for independent optometry practices, as well as ensuring eye health and vision care aren’t singled out and targeted in Medicaid reduction proposals. 

AOA executive director calls state of federation 'strong, getting stronger'

“Strong and getting even stronger” is how AOA Executive Director Jon Hymes characterized the state of the AOA and affiliate federation during his opening remarks before the AOA’s House of Delegates on Thursday. That strength comes as optometry’s advocates engage even more completely on multiple advocacy fronts, as well as realizing new opportunities for practice success for members. 

“We fight for our doctors in both the singular and ongoing battles that will shape eye care delivery for decades to come,” Hymes noted. “We’re carrying the powerful, important and timely message of this great profession to the public, to policymakers, to the media, and this year more than ever, to those special interests who devalue eye health care even as they seek to control its delivery.” 

Hymes continued by detailing the AOA’s always-on public awareness and marketing efforts, namely, the Eye Deserve More campaign, that launched in 2021. This eye-catching, multi-channel campaign breaks through the misinformation to capture patients’ attention and encourage them to find a local AOA doctor of optometry. Hymes pointed to the campaign’s recent successes, including: 

• Public value of in-person eye exams has increased to 80% over the past three years in recent surveys; 
• “Eye exams” ranked in the top 10 booked doctor visits for the first time ever, per ZocDoc, a demonstration that the public are seeking in-person eye care; and 
• 330,000 patients driven to the AOA-member doctor locator by the Eye Deserve More campaign, connecting them directly to a local doctor they trust—a 273% increase since 2021. 

“Eye Deserve More is helping grow understanding about optometry, expand the profession’s influence and presence in the public discourse, and most importantly, put patients in our chairs,” Hymes said. 

Shaping the future of optometry

Representing nearly 7,000 student members, American Optometric Student Association (AOSA) President James Chung addressed the House of Delegates with a call for AOA-member doctors of optometry. “As we transition from AOSA members to AOA members, we look to your guidance.” 

Chung added that this year, the AOSA is focused on its goal of increasing awareness of the value of AOSA membership—which in turn increases the value of AOA membership. He pointed to events such as Optometry’s Meeting and AOA on Capitol Hill as crucial to cultivating a sense of belonging and strengthening the transition to AOA membership. Programs such as AOA+ and Leadership Link offer one-on-one opportunities for students to foster relationships with others in the optometric world. 

“Help us shape the future by helping students learn to become doctors,” said Chung.  

The hottest tech of the year? The Eye

Every year, Americans chase the next tech upgrade. Faster processors. Sharper screens. Our eyes are worthy of the same hype that the latest and greatest tech products always get. That’s why the AOA is leading the movement to ensure people see their eye health in a whole new lens. Meet The Eye: a digital prototype of a fictional tech device designed as an educational tool, conversation starter and visual centerpiece for AOA’s Eye Deserve More campaign. Inspired by the intricate features and capabilities of the human eye, The Eye highlights the complexity of the visual system and underscores that our most advanced tech—our eyes— deserve in-person care from an AOA doctor of optometry. In 2024, AOA’s conceptual tech product The Eye went viral, earning over a million views and twice the shares of the iPhone 16 launch. Visit Booth #1521 to discover your greatest tech yet.  

House of Delegates opens

The House of Delegates opened this morning. Comprised of affiliated association representatives, doctors of optometry in federal service, District of Columbia and optometry students, the House meets annually at Optometry's Meeting® to conduct AOA business, establish AOA policy and elect officers and trustees to the AOA Board of Trustees.  

All members are invited to attend each session, including the election and installation of the AOA board on Saturday, June 28. Hear the latest in advocacy news and accomplishments and get a glimpse at the future of optometry from your AOA leaders. 

AOA ‘sounding the alarm on a growing crisis’

AOA President-elect Jacquie M. Bowen, O.D., shared with the House of Delegates the latest update on AOA’s relentless advocacy to fight for reimbursement and coverage fairness. 

“We’re sounding the alarm on a growing crisis: health insurers and vision plans are piling on administrative red tape and financial strain like never before—and it’s costing providers dearly,” Dr. Bowen said. 

She shared the following numbers: 

• $43.84 — What it costs, on average, for a doctor to fight one denied claim. 
• $19.7 billion — The total annual price tag for doctors just to get insurers to pay what’s owed. 
• 97% — The percentage of initially denied dollars that eventually were paid.  

In recognition of these growing challenges—and the unsustainable toll on doctors and practices—the AOA remains fully committed to fighting for every dollar owed to doctors. This is about more than revenue, Dr. Bowen said; it’s about ensuring fair treatment, protecting access to care, and preserving the future of the profession. 

She directed members to AOA’s daily publication, First Look, where they can learn about specific actions taken with health and vision plans—real steps to resolve real issues reported by doctors. “We’ve helped doctors get paid for improperly denied YAG procedures, reversed inappropriate contract terminations, and fought to remove providers from unjust downcoding programs. Every day, we’re directly interfacing with plans to resolve credentialing problems, claim delays, and coverage inconsistencies.” 

And the results are real: AOA advocacy efforts have returned over $7.5 million to doctors of optometry in less than 24 months.  

Eye Care Square opens with record support

Eye Care Square opened Wednesday evening with more than 40 new exhibitors—a record for industry support. 

Attendees can step into an immersive experience showcasing the latest products and solutions shaping the future of optometry. Stop by the Education Theater or the EYETalks Stage to catch and earn CE during expert-led discussions.  

Also hosted in Eye Care Square: 

Residency & Graduate Education Summit 

Dive into the latest innovations at dedicated industry sessions. Don't miss the Residency & Graduate Education Summit on Friday, June 27, from 1-3 p.m. and the Career Fair from 1-3 p.m. 

Affiliate Connections 

On Thursday, June 26, from 1-2:30 p.m., stop by the Eye Care Square to network and connect with fellow participants from your affiliate state to learn more about how you can become involved at the local level. 

Dr. Edlow: What does this mean for optometry today?

Quoting “On the Origin of Species,” Dr. Edlow concludes his Opening Session: AOA Experience presentation with the famous Charles Darwin axiom: "the species that survives is the one that is able best to adapt and adjust to the changing environment in which it finds itself.” But what does this mean for optometry?  

Optometry repeatedly demonstrates its prowess and ability to evolve with clinical developments and the needs of patients, Dr. Edlow says. 

“Optometry is able to adapt and adjust to a rapidly changing environment and it’s the coolest thing in the world. There are just so many great opportunities,” Dr. Edlow said.  

Dr. Edlow shared a graph of the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) Physician Utilization and Payment data to emphasize that about one-third of optometrists billed for any kind of medical eye care test, such as visual field, OCT or fundus photography. This indicates an opportunity for the profession to grow further in not only diagnosing but treating medical eye conditions. 

“Only 29% of optometrists billed Medicare for a visual field, 28% for OCT, but that’s not even a third of optometrists billing Medicare Fee For Service (FFS) for medical services,” Dr. Edlow said. “As a profession we’re not as engaged as we need to be.” 

But there’s good news to that: Optometry’s share of Medicare FFS exams increased from 2017 to 2023 in the most recent data, as well as the share of patients managed by optometry increased from 35% to 42%. 

“Medical eye exams is growing much more rapidly than vision exams. We see it in the data,” Dr. Edlow said. “There is incredible opportunities; it’s just phenomenal for optometry.” 

Dr. Edlow: Why focus on building optometry’s medical eye care?

So, where is this “opportunity” that Dr. Edlow is speaking about in his Opening Session: AOA Experience presentation? It’s optometry’s realization of medical eye care, particularly for age-related conditions. Consider that the prevalence for the following age-related eye diseases are all expected to increase: 

• Cataracts - 2.5% per year  
• Glaucoma – 2.3% per year 
• Macular degeneration – 2.9% per year 
• Dry eye disease – 2% per year 
• Diabetic retinopathy - 2.7% per year 

The U.S. population entered an inflection point in recent years where the share of 60-and-older adults is greater than ever before in history. What’s more, the 65-and-older population is expected to increase by 54% over the next 15 years as compared to a 7% and 5% change in the 18-to-64 and less-than-18 groups. 

This burgeoning gap in demand of care and supply of ophthalmologists can be remedied by the realization of optometry’s availability. Cataract surgery is a great example. 

By 2035, cataract surgeries are anticipated to increase by 20% while ophthalmology’s workforce is expected to decline by 7%, equating to more demand on surgeons. As optometry’s scope expands in over a dozen states to provide post-operative cataract care, a model of efficient use of provider types becomes evident. 

Opening session: State of the ophthalmic industry

“Opportunity” is what Richard Edlow, O.D., sees for the optometric profession as the industry lecturer and author known as the Eyeconomist takes the Opening Session: AOA Experience stage, providing analysis on Americans’ immediate and future access to essential eye care services. Particularly, Dr. Edlow calls attention to three factors currently shaping the ophthalmic industry, including: 

• Market size 
• Supply of eye care providers 
• Demand for vision and medical eye care services 

Dr. Edlow notes how the total U.S. ophthalmic market increased by over 70% between 2015 and 2023, and with that came a steady increase in medical eye care services over vision services (based on dollars spent) in recent years.  

Likewise, the past several years experienced an overall decline in full-time equivalent (FTE) ophthalmologists in the field, a factor of attrition by retirement and fewer graduates. That’s compared to optometry, where the workforce trend is upward as new graduates are projected to offset attrition by 4,000+ FTEs through 2035. 

Lastly, Dr. Edlow emphasizes that an aging American population is beginning to elevate demand for age-related eye care. 

AOA, Johnson & Johnson announce new children’s vision initiative

The AOA and Johnson & Johnson are launching a new, united effort to bring together eye doctors, educators, caregivers, community leaders and policymakers to close the referral loop—the critical gap between a failed vision screening and the care that must follow. 

“At Optometry’s Meeting 2023, the AOA issued a nationwide rallying cry to close the alarming gap in children’s eye health and vision care: Johnson & Johnson is proudly and urgently answering that call,” said AOA President Steven T. Reed, O.D. “Together, we are redoubling our efforts to ensure no child falls through the cracks of our health care system. In some communities, only 1 in 5 children who fail a vision screening receive the follow-up care they so critically need. That means children are entering classrooms with undiagnosed, untreated vision problems—putting their learning, confidence and future at risk.” 

Called See It Through, the new initiative from The AOA Foundation in collaboration with Johnson & Johnson aims to build a movement to raise awareness, eliminate barriers and deliver real solutions, starting in individual communities and stretching across the nation. At the heart of this collaboration is InfantSEE®, a groundbreaking public health initiative launched 20 years ago with the simple but profound mission to make eye and vision care a routine part of infant wellness, powered by The AOA Foundation and sustained by the enduring support of Johnson & Johnson. 

“Today, I want to pledge that we are here together with you in the journey to advance eye health,” said Peter Menziuso, company group chairman, vision, Johnson & Johnson.       

“There's a lot more for us to accomplish for children.” 

From Cupertino to Minneapolis: Chung opens Optometry's Meeting with welcome for student attendees

AOSA President James Chung continued the AOA Experience: Opening Session by welcoming attendees, from the stage, likening the lights, showcase and atmosphere of Optometry’s Meeting opening to an Apple product launch. 

“We are drawn to the parallels between Optometry’s Meeting’s opening ceremony and Apple’s keynote,” Chung said. “Not only because this stage evokes a sense of awe, but, like new technology that is presented on Apple’s stage, we present new ideas about the evolution of our profession; a change that is evolving with time to better serve our patients. “  

Chung highlighted optometry’s journey from humble beginnings to its current role—vision science pioneers, patient advocates and frontline providers of eye health and vision care. It’s an evolution accomplished by the profession’s efforts in advocacy and dedication to our patients. Students play a pivotal role in that, too, in shaping optometry’s future. 

Chung challenged the students in attendance to expand their network with fellow students, doctors, industry partners, and feel the sense of community; learn from fellow students, experienced doctors, and CE lectures to continue to build upon their optometric knowledge; and most importantly, have fun. 

“Look around us: we are here in Minneapolis celebrating the great profession that continues to serve our patients by protecting sight,” Chung concluded. 

Optometry unbound

This year, Optometry's Meeting hosts the 5th World Congress of Optometry (WCO5), in partnership with the World Council of Optometry. From thought-provoking presentations to networking opportunities, participants will engage with leading experts in the field and explore cutting-edge advancements in optometric practice. Through advocacy, education, policy development and humanitarian outreach, WCO5 and Optometry's Meeting empower optometrists to play a pivotal role in promoting eye health and vision care for all.  

“We are thrilled to see many of our members from all over the world come together here in Minneapolis to learn side by side with AOA and AOSA members. We see this as an opportunity to make new friends and build new networks. We invite everyone to view the in-person posters and interact with our international attendees. We are all optometrists, and WCO is hoping that the meeting will be a chance for all of us to learn from each other,” said Sandra Block, O.D., World Council of Optometry president. 

“WCO also believes, as the AOA does, that learning how best to serve our patients does not end upon graduation. As the science and evidence on how best to provide care for our patients changes, WCO has been working tirelessly with partners to offer continued education,” Dr. Block continued.  

“Our goal for the future is to continue to serve the profession on the global level with the goal of eliminating unnecessary visual impairment and blindness.” 

Why The AOA Foundation is optometry’s charity of choice

Belinda R. Starkey, O.D., president of The AOA Foundation, demonstrated to attendees the impact of the foundation and its programs, such as Optometry’s Fund for Disaster Relief (OFDR). 

“Our mission doesn’t stop at prevention—it’s also about protection and empowerment.”   

In 2024, the program had its most active year ever—disbursing over $275,000 in emergency funds to nearly 200 doctors and students affected by hurricanes, floods, tornadoes and wildfires. Already in 2025, OFDR has provided $33,000 in relief. The grants help reopen practices quickly, so patients don’t miss a beat in their care.  

“One of our recent recipients, Dr. Gail Murphy, couldn’t be here tonight. Her home and practice were impacted by the California wildfires. She shared that she used part of her grant to replace her children’s lenses—tools she uses in her charity work with children in foster care and group homes.   

Dr. Starkey continued, “She said, ‘They were a part of me, and I kept thinking about how I needed them to feel a bit of normalcy.’ How profound is that? In the midst of loss, it was her work—our work—that gave her direction. That’s the power of this foundation.”  

Make a donation to ensure The AOA Foundation can continue its mission. 

AOA president kicks off Optometry's Meeting, detailing AOA achievements for profession

AOA President Steven T. Reed, O.D., kicked off Optometry’s Meeting | 5th World Congress of Optometry in Minneapolis, welcoming a global gathering of over 4,100 optometric and eye care professionals. His address celebrated the profession’s compassionate spirit and highlighted its boundless opportunities. 

In his opening remarks, Dr. Reed underscored the AOA’s advocacy efforts, detailing significant wins against vision plan abuses, including the recovery of over $7.5 million for doctors from vision plans. He applauded states for passing crucial legislation, such as Texas’ “any-willing provider” law just this past week and Arkansas’ vision benefit manager law linking reimbursement with Medicare rates. Recognizing a major achievement within the past year, Dr. Reed called attention to the groundbreaking physician-level recognition for VA doctors, reinforcing optometry’s essential role as frontline health care providers. Finally, Dr. Reed called attention to recent AOA action, when outside counsel demanded VSP to cease and desist anti-doctor policies.  

Dr. Reed emphasized optometry’s “unprecedented gains” in expanding its scope of practice across the U.S., with 14 states now permitting in-office procedures, such as optometric laser procedures. He called attention to a recent research report out of West Virginia University, referring to optometry’s scope wins over the years as unprecedented and the most significant expansion of clinical responsibilities in U.S. history.  

Dr. Reed painted a picture of a unified, expanding profession, poised for an even brighter future. 

“Because that is what we do—show up for each other and the profession with passion and commitment,” Dr. Reed said. “This sentiment and today’s global gathering are a testament to the incredible, boundless opportunities we have as a profession." 

‘Minnesota Nice,’ optometry proud

Tommy Elton, O.D., president of the Minnesota Optometric Association, launched Optometry’s Meeting 2025 by welcoming attendees to experience “Minnesota Nice”—a way of life. “We boast many things, but none more impressive than the power of our people,” Dr. Elton said. 

“On behalf of the Minnesota Optometric Association, thank you for being here. Thank you for the care you give your patients and for the passion you bring to this profession. As the first state in the nation to legislate the licensing of optometrists in 1901, Minnesota is no stranger to moving the profession forward. Now, in 2025, we’re once again taking strides—and were able to this legislative session expand our scope of practice and improve access to the kind of care our patients need and deserve. It’s hard work, but it’s necessary work, and it’s exciting to be part of a profession that’s so clearly focused on the future of health for our communities.”  

AOA Innovation Hub concludes with pharma, contact lens solutions on the horizon

The AOA Innovation Hub concluded its inaugural session with a panel discussion, titled, "Enhancing Treatment Through New Technologies," and showcased groundbreaking advancements in pharmaceuticals and contact lenses. Moderated by Nora Cothran, O.D., the panel discussion included: 

• Mile Brujic, O.D. (MediPrint Ophthalmics) 
• Ben Bergo (Tenpoint Therapeutics) 
• Elan Weiner (ECI Therapeutics)  

Discussions highlighted novel contact lenses designed for enhanced comfort (via hyaluronic acid) and as highly compliant drug delivery systems for conditions such as glaucoma and presbyopia. Additionally, the panel explored new pharmaceutical frontiers, including small molecules aiming to reverse cataracts and therapies for geographic atrophy. Key themes included the vital role of these innovations in improving patient outcomes, the importance of seamless integration into clinical workflows, and strategies for navigating reimbursement challenges. The session underscored a future where innovative solutions significantly elevate eye care. 

Innovation Hub continues with conversation on AI and provider workflow

The AOA Innovation Hub continued its morning sessions with a panel titled, "Addressing Patient Workflow Challenges Through AI," moderated by Dr. Morris, and including panelists: 

• Grant Shmid (Altris AI) 
• Colton Calandrella (Barti) 
• Easy Anyama, O.D. (AOA volunteer) 

The panel highlighted the transformative impact of Natural Language Processing (NLP) and AI on eye care workflows. Discussions emphasized how AI-powered scribes offer a "10x better" experience than traditional EHRs, saving practitioners significant time and reducing the burden of "death by a thousand clicks." The vision is for AI to become "invisible," seamlessly integrated into daily practice, making doctors "irreplaceable" by freeing them to focus on high-value patient interactions. Optometry, uniquely positioned to detect pathology early, stands to gain immensely by embracing these technologies, enhancing efficiency and improving overall patient outcomes. The key to adoption lies in demonstrating tangible benefits and frictionless integration. 

AOA Innovation Hub explores possibilities, challenges of integrating AI into eye care

The first panel discussion from the AOA Innovation Hub explored the transformative potential and practical hurdles of integrating artificial intelligence (AI) into eye care. Panelists included: 

• Laure Pichereau (SiView) 
• Patrick Sauvageau (Zilia) 
• Catherine Bornbaum (RetiSpec) 

A recurring theme was the necessity of overcoming resistance to change, as AI empowers practitioners to delegate routine tasks, allowing for deeper focus on complex patient needs and enhanced care quality. 

Discussions emphasized AI's role in pioneering early detection of systemic conditions such as neurodegenerative diseases through quantifiable ocular biomarkers, positioning the eye as a critical "window to health." For successful adoption, solutions must offer frictionless integration into existing workflows without disruption, providing clear value to both practice and patient. 

Scot Morris, O.D., Innovation Hub moderator, emphasized how key challenges include securing substantial funding for research and development, particularly for extensive clinical studies needed to validate AI models. Panelists also highlighted the critical importance of established reimbursement pathways (e.g., CPT codes) and a tangible return on investment to incentivize broader industry implementation. The conversation underscored the vital role of robust collaboration between technology developers and eye care professionals, fostering an integrated ecosystem. Furthermore, incorporating AI innovation into academic curricula is essential to prepare the next generation of practitioners, ultimately positioning eye care professionals as primary "gatekeepers of health." 

AOA Innovation Hub debuts with future-looking panel discussions

Welcoming everyone from tech innovators to startups, industry reps and all-around curious onlookers, the new AOA Innovation Hub convened the brightest minds and companies in the eye care industry and beyond for a horizon-gazing discussion about the future of eye health and vision care. Intended to align conversations and networking opportunities among the tech sector and optometric industry, the AOA Innovation Hub featured a three-part panel conversation, including: 

• Assessing Future Health Through AI-Enabled Tools 
• Addressing Patient Workflow Challenges Through AI 
• Enhancing Treatment Through New Technologies 

"This isn't just another summit—it's a call to action to challenge your perspectives, engage with these industry titans and be at the forefront of the evolution of eye care," said Scot Morris, O.D., session moderator. 

Hear more about the AOA Innovation Hub from Dr. Morris below or follow the conversation on social media at #OptometrysMeeting. 

Optometry unbound: Optometry's Meeting® 2025 | 5th World Congress of Optometry kicks off

In partnership with the World Council of Optometry, the AOA and American Optometric Student Association are proud to host the 5th World Congress of Optometry during Optometry’s Meeting® in Minneapolis. This momentous alignment brings together the strongest advocates for optometry, both in the United States and the world. Through advocacy, education, policy development and humanitarian outreach, the four-day event will empower optometrists to play a pivotal role in promoting eye health and vision care for all. Stay in the know by following Optometry’s Meeting on Facebook and watch for daily news updates from the profession’s premier meeting, posted at aoa.org/news. Get the latest by following the official hashtags, #optometrysmeeting and #WCO5 , on the meeting’s dedicated live-running social wall.