The OOA Stands Against Inequality and Injustice - A Statement on Healthcare
Eyes, like people, come in many different colors. We respect and honor individuality and embrace our differences and as healthcare providers we work to protect the health and safety of all people.
In that spirit, each member of the Ohio Optometric Association agrees to abide by a Code of Ethics as a condition of membership. This code calls on members to “uphold and promote by example and action the highest standards, ethics and ideals,” to provide care for patients “with concern, compassion, and due regard for their human rights, dignity, and privacy, without discrimination” and “to serve our communities, country, and humankind as exemplary citizens in all aspects.”
This solemn obligation is not undertaken lightly, or out of convenience; nor is it a promise made only in recent days. Our commitment to this creed is longstanding and enduring as evidenced by our actions. Our members have donated hundreds of thousands of hours of time and expertise to educate Ohio’s school children on the importance of good vision health, provided eye care services for those in need through our charitable iSEE and InfantSEE programs, and participated in Medicaid and Medicare at amongst the highest rate of any healthcare profession in the state.
We are proud of the work that we have done, but we understand that health inequities exist along racial and economic lines locally, nationally and globally. We look forward to continuing our work and to finding new opportunities to eliminate those inequities and make our shared community stronger.
Public Resources Overview
What is an Optometrist?
An optometrist, or Doctor of Optometry (OD), is the primary health care professional for the eye. Through comprehensive eye exams, optometrists examine, diagnose, treat, and manage diseases, injuries, and disorders of the visual system, the eye, and associated structures as well as identify related systemic conditions affecting the eye. Optometrists prescribe and fit eyeglasses and contact lenses to correct vision disorders.
An optometrist has completed undergraduate education in a college or university and four years of professional education at a college of optometry, leading to the doctor of optometry (OD) degree. Some optometrists complete an optional residency in a specific area of practice. Optometrists are eye health care professionals state-licensed to diagnose and treat diseases and disorders of the eye and visual system.
Ohio Optometric Foundation
The Ohio Optometric Foundation is committed to improving the vision and eye health of children and other Ohioans in visual need by providing access to necessary eye care. A not-for-profit Ohio charitable corporation chartered in the state of Ohio, its purpose is to accept and administer charitable donations to improve the visual health and welfare of Ohio's citizens.
Ohio Diabetic Eye Alliance
The Ohio Diabetic Eye Alliance (ODEA) is a network of optometrists throughout the state who are committed to caring for diabetic patients at the highest level. ODEA works with hospital systems and insurers throughout Ohio to deliver quality eye care to diabetic patients.
Helpful Patient Resources
The American Optometric Association offers extensive information relating to the eyes and vision health.
Optometry Cares—American Optometric Foundation Charitable Resources
The AOA Foundation is committed to its mission – expanding eye health and vision care access to everyone in the U.S. in order to enhance human performance and quality of life.
InfantSEE
Comprehensive infant eye exams between 6 and 12 months of age as a no-cost public service.
Ohio Amblyope Registry
The Ohio Amblyope Registry provides free eye patches for the treatment of amblyopia, free literature about amblyopia and causes, as well as other important services to help families of children with amblyopia. All services provided by the registry are free of charge and restricted to Ohio residents.
Order Vision Simulator Cards
Vision Simulator Cards "simulate" what it may look like to have common vision disorders and diseases.
