Outgoing AOA president highlights accomplishments, thanks supporters

SEATTLE – Increasing optometry’s presence in Washington and in health care circles were some of the hallmarks of the tenure of Kevin Alexander, OD, PhD, as president of the American Optometric Association, he told House of Delegates here at Optometry’s Meeting.

Dr. Alexander said plans are in the works to move AOA’s legislative office from Alexandria, Va., closer to Capitol Hill.

He also said the AOA this year has not shied away from controversial topics, including joining a committee of five other national organizations to consider board certification.

“We’ve tried to hit things straight on with honesty and courage and not back away from the issues,” he said. “We tried to tell you the straight scoop.”

He urged the delegates to keep an open mind about the board certification process. “It is not about checking the box, it’s about checks in the box,” he said. “It is about our part in the health care system.”

The creation of the National Commission on Vision and Health was a proud moment during his presidency, Dr. Alexander said. The commission comprises health care professionals who will serve as a think thank on visual health.

Dr. Alexander also lauded the AOA’s new free contract review service and online coding service for members, tools that will help clinicians keep up-to-date with the changing times.

“We’re going to do more to prepare our members for the electronic age and for health care reform,” he said.

Dr. Alexander will move on to become president of the Southern California College of Optometry.