The title of this column is always Viewpoint. This month I have a different point of view in that I am recovering from cataract surgery. And as I told patients for many years, it is a wonderful surgery. Although my vision was still good, driving at night had become difficult: Headlights had long starbursts and the contrast of the lines in the road had become dim. Now, colors are bright (my sneakers are actually lilac, not grey!) and my depth perception is improved. And yes, you can believe the comments your patients make.
A Dream Come True
Our cover story this month profiles See Vision Eye Institute in Palm Beach County, Florida. The practice’s new state-of-the-art office is the dream of Dr. Jason Gorscak. The 15,000-square-foot building has allowed the practice to combine their clinic with a surgery center to ensure patients can receive all their eyecare needs in one location.
Detecting, Testing and Relieving Dry Eye
Also in this issue, Dr. Frank W. Bowden, III, highlights important facts about detecting ocular surface disease, and Dr. Damon Dierker discusses performing diagnostic testing for it efficiently. Yet, many patients are not compliant with their treatments, often discontinuing their drops, leading to a vicious cycle of recurrent symptoms and additional medications, as Dr. Marjan Farid points out in her article.
A Spotlight on the AAOP’s Amy Jost
We are also excited to publish an interview with Amy Jost, MEd, COMT, CCRC, CTC, CEP, the first Clinical Teams Content Specialist of the American Academy of Ophthalmic Professionals (AAOP). This arm of the AAO was established 2 years ago to “support the exceptional delivery of physician-led patient care through education, training and career development.” If you are attending the Academy meeting this year, please introduce yourself to Amy.
Other Highlights From This Issue
Also in this issue, Felecia Jones, COT, BBA, discusses the path and process of obtaining prior authorizations. She also explains the bipartisan bill in front of Congress called Reducing Medically Unnecessary Delays in Care Act of 2025, which would reduce the administrative burden and be reviewed by a board-certified physician in the same specialty as the treating doctor.
Carrie Jacobs, COE, CPSS, OCS, provides great insight on how to counsel patients in various stages of presbyopia. Knowing how to meet patients where they are, she says, will help enhance the patient experience.
Finally, don’t miss our web exclusive articles that we will be featuring in October.
So, as the days become shorter and the nights grow longer, hunker down with the people who mean the most to you, and this issue of Ophthalmic Professional. OP
