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Doctors of optometry obtain $2.1 billion in federal relief to blunt COVID-19 economic crisis
Even as doctors of optometry receive the much-needed funds, the AOA remains committed to advocating for optometry’s inclusion in federal crisis measures. Reminder: the deadline to apply for relief has been extended to May 31.
Optometry’s reflection
Given the doors that were once closed and are now open to women and people of color in society, it might be expected that the faces of optometry would reflect the changing demographics of the nation. And with the nation’s reckoning over social injustice in 2020 stirring anew concerns over diversity and inclusiveness, the profession is asking whether optometry reflects the nation’s changing demographics—and why should that matter?
AOA pushes Amazon to sufficiently address inappropriate contact lens sales
The global e-commerce retailer again came to the AOA’s attention over posts from contact lens sellers that didn’t appear to meet FCLCA patient protection provisions requiring valid prescriptions.
Starting April 1, patients must acknowledge receipt of their contact lens prescriptions or provide consent to email it
Despite yearslong opposition by the AOA, other medical groups and many in Congress, the government’s Contact Lens Rule changes requiring confirmations and recordkeeping for at least three years are in effect. The Federal Trade Commission confirms it has authority to seek fines for noncompliance.
Who are you? AOA is letting America know
AOA’s public health observance calls out the bait-and-switch of online vision tests with a campaign emphasizing why there is no substitute for in-person eye health care with a doctor of optometry.
Paraoptometric advocacy lifts optometry: Why staff involvement is critical
Paraoptometric attendance at the AOA’s premier advocacy conference, May 23-25, helps reinforce optometry’s case for immediate changes that will affect the entire practice.
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’ COVID-19 relief package: HHS funds, ERC extension and more
The $1.9 trillion relief package includes the extension and funding of many federal initiatives that AOA supported in assisting optometry practices still coping with the pandemic fallout.
PPP loan deadline extended, AOA pushes SBA for clarity on program eligibility
May 31 is the new application deadline for first- and second-draw PPP loans, with the AOA requesting clarity on whether HHS Provider Relief Funds should be included in gross receipts for assessing eligibility.
AOA Focus
