You're comparing apples to oranges. Optometrists only indicate their affiliation to the American Optometric Association to their
patients (if even then), not to their peers.
The American Academy of Optometry is nothing like the National Academy of Opticianry. It's not even close.
To become a fellow of the AAO, an optometrist must be licensed to practice at the highest level in his/state (including DPA/TPA certifications), be recommended by another fellow, submit one or more written papers (scientific, case histories, etc.) for peer review, and sit through an oral examination. The AAO and its members also publish one of the most respected journals in vision science,
Optometry and Vision Science magazine. The yearly dues are over $300.
I would encourage you to visit the
AAO's site and the
NAO's site for information about both organizations.
Bookmarks