ECP Viewpoints

In the ever-advancing field of optometry, one of the pressing issues that has come to the fore is the rise in myopia, especially among children. Recent research from the Beyoglu Eye Journal indicates that by 2050, nearly half of the world's population could be myopic. So, the question that presents itself is: What can optometrists do to address this burgeoning problem and what innovations are available to manage it more efficiently in pediatric optometry?

In the latest episode of the ECP Viewpoints podcast by CooperVision, host Dr. Justin Kwan, Senior Manager at Myopia Management, delves deep into this issue with his guest, Dr. Jordan Hamric, an esteemed Optometrist at OPTICAL 101. Together, they explore:

•Dr. Hamric's personal experience and journey with myopia management.

•The role of confidence and communication when discussing myopia with both children and their parents in pediatric optometry.

•Innovative solutions and therapies, like the MiSight contact lenses, that have shown transformative results.

Dr. Jordan Hamric is a dedicated optometrist known for her engaging approach with young patients. Holding a pivotal position at OPTICAL 101, her endeavors in myopia management have brought her accolades and respect in the industry.

In this ECP Viewpoints ℠ Podcast, CooperVision’s Dr. Jennifer Palombi sits down with Dr. Brooke Kaplan and Dr. David Schaeffer who talk all things MyDay Energys ® and Biofinity Energys ®, including the advanced material technology and innovative optical design behind the lenses, how to integrate MyDay Energys® and Biofinity Energys® into daily practice, and patient conversation insights and practice opportunities for ECPs.

In this ECP Viewpoints℠ Podcast, CooperVision’s Dr. Felicia Timmermann talks with Dr. Dana DeVito, who shares how recent optometry school graduates can successfully transition into roles in private practice. From choosing the right externship to the importance of mentorships and networking, Dr. DeVito details her personal journey from student to OD and how she leveraged every opportunity that came her way as a student to position herself for success in her first role in the profession.

The first year of optometry school marks a new chapter, as students pivot from their undergrad studies to their first step in optometric education. In this recent episode of "Back-to-School," CooperVision’s Dr. Arti Shah, OD, FAAO, talks with Lauren Martinez, a second-year optometry student, who shares highlights from her pivotal first year at the University of Houston College of Optometry. Lauren also offers a window into the optometric specialties first year students discover and her personal experience with CooperVision’s Myopia Management Immersion Program, which pairs first year students with leading doctors and offers students hands-on, clinical experience in myopia management.

The realm of pediatric optometry remains as diverse and dynamic as the very children it serves. With nearly 4 out of 5 school-age children suffering from visual impairment, the urgency to understand, manage, and communicate pediatric optometry's evolution has never been higher.

So, what actually goes on behind the scenes of a pediatric optometrist’s journey? What drives them, and what challenges do they face?

Welcome to The Pediatric Residency Podcast by CooperVision, hosted by Dr. Justin Kwan, Senior Manager at Myopia Management. Today, he sits down with the insightful Dr. Jehann Dagher, a Pediatric Resident at Ohio State University, as they delve deep into the world of pediatric optometry.

In this episode, they discuss:

• Dr. Dagher's personal journey into pediatric optometry, influenced by her childhood experiences.
• The importance of recognizing binocular vision disorders in children with learning or reading disabilities.
• The diverse and innovative treatments available in myopia management.

Dr. Jehann Dagher's passion for optometry stems from her childhood interactions with eye doctors due to her own eye turn condition. As a dedicated Pediatric Resident at Ohio State University, Dr. Dagher brings to the table her valuable experiences, knowledge, and a drive to elevate pediatric optometry. From her role in vision therapy clinics to performing eye exams for infants, Dr. Dagher stands out as an advocate for comprehensive eye care for all ages.

CooperVision recently concluded its 2023 Best Practices Summit in Savannah, Georgia, where three optometry student scholarship winners had the opportunity to participate. In this episode of the ECP Viewpoints podcast, Dr. Jennifer Palombi, Senior Manager of Professional Education and Development at CooperVision, interviews the three student scholarship winners: Emily Benson, Makayla Harr, and Susmitha Narisetty. The students share their top takeaways from the summit and discuss their unexpected learnings and valuable experiences.

The students unanimously agreed that the summit provided valuable insights into marketing and storytelling. They emphasized the importance of effectively marketing oneself in the optometry world, utilizing social media and staying updated on new technologies. The keynote speaker, Matthew Lunn, highlighted the significance of storytelling in pitching oneself to colleagues and patients, making connections, and enhancing patient experiences. The students were pleasantly surprised by the emphasis on personal connections and the willingness of industry professionals to help them succeed.

While the students expected to gain knowledge about optometry practices and industry trends, they were pleasantly surprised by the honest discussions about failures and challenges faced by successful practitioners. This realization reassured them that facing ups and downs in their future practices is normal and provided practical insights on problem-solving. Additionally, they learned about the science of storytelling and how it can capture patients' attention, create a personal touch, and enhance communication with patients and communities.

The students highlighted the importance of making connections during the summit. They appreciated the opportunity to network with practitioners from different practices and schools, expanding their knowledge beyond their immediate circles. They learned from low-vision practitioners, which they were not particularly interested in, but recognized the potential impact on their future patients. The connections made during the summit allowed them to exchange business cards, share experiences, and gain valuable advice for their future careers.

The student scholarship winners expressed gratitude for the opportunity to attend the summit and emphasized the honor and privilege it represents. They encouraged fellow students to put themselves out there and seize opportunities for personal and professional growth. They emphasized the significance of connections in the optometry industry, highlighting the small circle and the importance of networking. They urged students to make the most of such experiences, as connections and learnings can contribute to their success as future practitioners.

CooperVision's Best Practices Summit provided the student scholarship winners with valuable insights into marketing, storytelling, and the optometry industry. The students appreciated the emphasis on personal connections and the opportunity to learn from successful practitioners. They encouraged their peers to pursue similar opportunities, recognizing the honor and privilege it entails, and emphasizing the significance of connections in the optometry field. Attending events like the Best Practices Summit can contribute to students' growth and success as they enter the optometry profession.

As the field of optometry becomes increasingly competitive, early-career professionals are seeking guidance on how to navigate their career paths successfully. With the industry witnessing an expansion in roles beyond traditional clinical practice, such as leadership, academia, and industry positions, the necessity to gain diverse skills and build a robust network has never been more essential. Recent studies indicate that networking and mentorship significantly contribute to career advancement in healthcare professions.

So, how can an aspiring optometrist or a young professional build a successful career in this evolving landscape? What skills, experiences, and relationships matter the most?

In this episode of ECP Viewpoints, Host Dr. Tara Vaz delves into the multifaceted sphere of eye care professionals with her esteemed guest, Dr. Quy Nguyen. Together, they unravel the secrets to carving a successful career path in optometry, shedding light on vital elements like skill enhancement, effective networking, and the importance of mentorship.

Drs. Vaz and Nguyen discuss:

• The significance of setting clear career goals, expanding skills, and gaining diverse experiences
• The power of networking and mentorship, both formal and informal, in providing guidance and opening doors in the field
• The importance of communication skills, not just for patient interaction, but for effective leadership

Dr. Nguyen is an accomplished optometrist with a wealth of industry experience. He is a respected leader and educator at the SUNY College of Optometry, where he has implemented a formal mentoring program. Known for his commitment to nurturing the next generation of optometrists, Dr. Nguyen brings invaluable insights into the intricate pathways of optometry careers.

Dr. Chris Wolfe is not only an optometrist but an eyecare evangelist. Wolfe hosts an eye care podcast channel on his EyeCode Media network. He spoke with Dr. Jennifer Palombi about aligning his optometry practice with an independent doctor alliance – in his case, Vision Source, a family of 3,100 locally owned optometric practices.

Wolfe’s father, also an optometrist, joined Vision Source in 2001. When Wolfe took over the family practice, he saw remaining in the alliance as a natural fit for the collective benefits it provides independent practices.