‘Change agents’ selected for AOA-CooperVision myopia initiative
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NASHVILLE, Tenn. — The American Optometric Association and CooperVision announced the 60 inaugural “change agents” who will lead the Myopia Collective, an initiative that advocates for comprehensive treatment for myopia.
Healio reported in April that the two organizations partnered on this effort, aiming to elevate the standard of care for children with myopia through comprehensive treatment, rather than just correction.
Felicia Timmermann, OD, MS, FAAO, a member of the professional affairs team at CooperVision, told Healio during Optometry’s Meeting that the primary goal of the initiative is to bring a greater awareness of myopia.
“Change agents will be the leaders,” she said. “There will be one per state. They will work locally on community involvement and with legislators. They’ll be talking about doing timely exams on kids.”
“Change agents will be the driving force behind the Myopia Collective, receiving specialized training in myopia management and leading legislative and advocacy initiatives in their communities,” Michele Andrews, OD, CooperVision’s vice president of marketing and professional affairs for the Americas, said in a company press release.
In addition, these individuals will be trained on integrating myopia management into their practices and strategies for state and federal outreach.
Timmerman said all are welcome to join the effort as members —“optometrists, students, anyone who wants to learn more about myopia.”
“Change agents are just one part of this pivotal initiative, with the other being the entire U.S. optometry community,” AOA President Steven Reed, OD, said in the release. “We invite everyone to become members of the Myopia Collective, symbolizing a unified dedication to advancing myopia management across the profession. Members will gain access to valuable educational resources, receive exclusive insights on best practices and be among the first to receive community news and updates.”
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