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AOA president calls for ‘all hands on deck’ in new era of health care
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SAN DIEGO – New American Optometric Association President Mitchell Munson, OD, told the House of Delegates during Optometry’s Meeting that many questions remain regarding the Affordable Care Act’s effect on the profession, and, “whatever you can contribute, bring it.”
The essential pediatric benefit, Harkin Amendment, quality ranking, reimbursement and health information exchanges will all affect optometry’s future, but exactly how is unclear.
“Change is inevitable,” Munson said. “Technology changes at an exponential rate, as is our world. How will you cope?
“That’s where we come in,” he continued. “The AOA has never expected you to solve all the mysteries of practice on your own. Your AOA made a commitment and investment to put the right team in place so we would be on top of what’s happening in Washington.”
The AOA’s Jon Hymes was named as one of Washington’s top 10 lobbyists of 2012, Munson said.
The Affordable Care Act and aging demographics will bring tens of millions of additional patients into the health care system.
“Who will fill the void?” Munson asked.
“Optometry is being referenced as one of the top professions for the future,” he said. “Twenty-five years ago I couldn’t prescribe an antibiotic. Today’s there’s little we can’t prescribe. There’s every reason before us to continue to move forward.”
Nearly 20% of the 2013 graduates from optometry schools will do a residency.
“Today’s students will be the most well-trained optometrists in the history of this profession,” he said.
The AOA has adopted a policy to send a board member to every optometry school every year to deliver the association’s message.
“AOA membership is free upon graduation, but the membership rate is only 60%,” Munson added.
“During this year, the leadership of the AOA and the Association of Schools and Colleges of Optometry will explore synergies, knowing the success of our profession is dependent on the advancement of education in our profession and continuing involvement of students,” he said. “The students of today will shape the future of tomorrow.”
Munson said the AOA has instituted changes to better accommodate the needs of its affiliate members.
“Our affiliate partners are the backbone of our federation,” he said. “We acknowledge that in our strategic plan. Better communication equals less confusion, more camaraderie and happier members.
“We will be all hands on deck as we move into this new era of health care,” Munson concluded. “Clearly, things will change Jan. 1. You may have more questions than answers. Stay informed; keep an open mind; use your AOA board as a resource.”