AAOpt 2024: Looking at optometry's evolution and expansion

As the field of optometry continues to evolve, it is crucial for practitioners to stay informed about the latest advancements and innovations. Fortunately, a dynamic presentation at the upcoming AAOpt conference promises to provide optometrists with a comprehensive overview of the exciting developments shaping the profession. Titled "Optometry's Evolution and Expansion," this 2-hour rapid-fire lecture will feature a collaborative effort from three renowned experts in the field: Justin Schweitzer, OD, FAAO; Selina McGee, OD; and Ian Ben Gaddie, OD, FAAO. Together, they will delve into a wide range of topics that are transforming the way optometrists diagnose and manage various eye conditions. "We're going to talk about a ton of different things that are either on the market or coming into the market in a variety of different spaces," explains Schweitzer. "We're talking a lot on dry eye and some of the new innovations in that market, which is just massive and huge and it can help a lot of our patients."

Beyond the burgeoning dry eye landscape, the presenters will also explore the latest advancements in the glaucoma space, covering both technological and pharmaceutical innovations. Additionally, they will showcase some of the cutting-edge diagnostic tools that are revolutionizing the way optometrists identify and monitor various ocular surface and posterior segment conditions. "I think that we always have to be on the cutting edge of new technology and new innovations within our profession," emphasizes Schweitzer. "And you'll see that as we go through this, some of the topics that we're going to cover."

Even the presenters themselves were surprised by the wealth of information they uncovered while preparing for this lecture. "Dr. McGee presented to me essentially when we were putting this talk together, and I was unaware of certain things. Dr. Gaddie, same thing – we kind of learned together as we were putting this together, because there's so much new stuff, exciting stuff that's coming to the market." Attendees of this dynamic presentation can expect to leave feeling empowered and informed, ready to incorporate the latest advancements into their clinical practice. By staying at the forefront of optometry's evolution, practitioners can ensure they provide the highest level of care for their patients.

Schweitzer is presenting 3 presentations at this year's AAOpt meeting. You can watch his interview on new developments in ocular drug delivery here.