AOA MORE, optometry’s data registry, takes yearlong pause
The AOA will use the time to evaluate its collection efforts and create a registry for the future that is most useful to improving eye health and vision care. The AOA launched the registry in 2015.

4 coding changes now in effect
Given the importance of E/M services in patient care, it’s critical that all doctors of optometry are aware of these changes.

Do you know optometry’s advocacy priorities? Learn the issues before Virtual AOA on Capitol Hill
Virtual AOA on Capitol Hill, May 23-25, is open to all advocacy-minded doctors, optometry students and paraoptometrics. Learn the issues and get involved at optometry’s premier advocacy event.

CDC updates COVID-19 eye protection, face mask guidance affecting optometry practices
Access the AOA HPI’s latest issue brief that details current public health guidance on eye protection, face masks and contingency planning as new SARS-CoV-2 variants begin circulating.

Enrich optometry’s future: Support ‘Opportunities’ grants
New AOA/AOSA Opportunities in Optometry grants provide underrepresented minority students assistance with entrance costs for optometry school—how you can help.
Air pollution implicated in AMD study as U.S. air quality declines
Scratchy, irritated eyes may be the least of concerns from poor air quality as a new study associates ambient air pollution with greater AMD risk and differences in retinal layer thickness.
New rules ahead for patient access to electronic health records
Under new rules for the 21st Century Cures Act, doctors of optometry will need to prepare for changes going into effect April 5. Doctors should check in with their health IT vendor in order to make sure they meet the new requirements.

Congress, President Biden asked to activate optometry for COVID-19 vaccination response
As AOA encourages federal recognition of optometry as COVID-19 vaccinators, doctors can access new COVID-19 vaccinator resources, information and guidance with an upcoming #AskAOA webinar.

Feds accelerate COVID-19 vaccination pace, AOA offers vaccinators’ webinar
U.S. health authorities spur next phase of COVID-19 vaccination rollout, dramatically expanding supply and administration sites, as optometry explores going from vaccinated to vaccinator.
AOA Focus
