5 Key Takeaways from Optometry’s Meeting (2018) in Denver
Engagement with your profession remains one of the best reasons to attend large scale industry events
Optometry’s Meeting (2018) – came and went this past weekend in the Rocky Mountain city of Denver. Festivities included the House of Delegates (Optometry’s Voice), Essilor’s Optometry Student Bowl™ XXVII, the Optometry Cares® 5K Run/Walk, the National Optometry Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony and a whole host of other guest speakers, events and continuing education.
One could obviously get lost in a sea of eye health related functions and activities at this large scale event. However, it was in my best interest to stay focus and corral some of the main ideas from my experience.
Here are 5 key takeaways from Optometry’s Meeting (2018) in Denver:
Engagement
Engagement is something that always sticks out and it remains one of the most important reasons to attend large scale industry events. Staying passionate about your profession, learning and reviewing diagnosis and treatment, and connecting with your colleagues makes for a better professional experience. It also provides motivation and helps to prevent burn out, which seems to be on the rise for medical professionals.
Setting an example
In attending industry events, it’s easy to see that the future of the profession is in good hands. Spending time with students is a great way to give back and empower future doctors to care for patients in the best manner possible. It’s great to meet students who are motivated, passionate and eager to contribute. The opportunities these particular students receive are well deserved.
Stress Management
Dr. Kristen Race (a psychologist) talked about several ways to improve mental health in highly stressful situations. She encouraged eye doctors at the event to practice “PBR” and she wasn’t talking about the light beer we all drank in college. Remember to PAUSE – BREATHE – REACT (or “PBR”) when a stressful situation is imminent.
Innovation
One particular innovation from Optometry’s Meeting came in the form of a disposable contact lens. Johnson & Johnson partnered with Transitions Lenses to create the first two week disposable contact lenses which transitions to a tint when exposed to UV rays. The ACUVUE OASYS® with Transitions® will be released in early 2019.
Collaboration
Collaboration is a recurring/pivotal theme in medicine and elsewhere. As it just so happens to be, right now is an excellent time to work with other health professionals to gather information and to ensure the best possible outcomes for patients.
