Originally Posted by
Darryl Meister
However, if I had to make a recommendation, not a plan, I would probably propose the following short list, just off-the-cuff:
1. Unify opticianry organizations, in particular the ABO and NAO, and then strengthen this organization. Actively promote membership. Charge members enough to allow the organization to work towards our common goals, while showing members the results of that work.
2. Seek the support of the American Optometric Association. The fact is, opticians and optometrists often have common interests and face common challenges. What opticianry has failed to do in the past is to convince optometrists that it is actually in optometry's best interest to have licensed opticians.
3. Encourage either formal education or basic ABO certification and then advanced certification among opticians. Increase consumer awareness of the benefits of a skilled optician. Perhaps even seek a partnership or strategic alliance with paraoptometrics, ophthalmic technologists, and similar ancillary personnel.
4. As progress is made, work with ophthalmology, optometry, and other organizations (such as the Vision Council) to secure minimal licensing requirements in more states, allowing current opticians to grandfather in where necessary. And, no, you will not get a bill passed, if you start throwing around words like "refracting" at this stage.
Best regards,
Darryl