Optometric Insights Media

Send us a textAbout Dr. Aaron Werner, OD Graduated from the Illinois College of Optometry, following his father, grandfather, and great-grandfather in becoming a doctor of optometry.  He is president of Werner Optometry in San Diego, CA a two-doctor multi-generation optometry practice that provides comprehensive primary eye care services. Aaron is passionate about helping others achieve their full potential and serves as the Senior Director Learning and Development for Vision Source. A native of southern California, Aaron is an avid hiker, runner, enjoys playing soccer, surfing and spending time with his wife, 3 children and grandson.Aaron hosts the Aaron Werner Podcast on EyeCode MediaApple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/eyecode-media/id1449429774Spotify https://open.spotify.com/show/6sGffC4Y3BXFc5pBxvcJNEYouTube https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCYyWZ4Y_ub2_akEj2kielFA

Send us a textAbout Dr. Mila IoussifovaDr. Mila Ioussifova graduated with honors from the New England College of Optometry and completed a residency program in community health and ocular disease in Boston, MA. She is a fellow of the American Academy of Optometry and is on the leadership team of the Anterior Segment Section of the AAO. Dr. Mila served as an adjunct clinical faculty at the Pacific University College of Optometry and was an examiner for the National Board of Examiners in Optometry. She is involved with her state association and advocacy efforts, and she is the Director of Education for the Oregon Optometric Physicians Association. Dr. Mila is a Board-Certified Nutrition Specialist and is a fellow of the Ocular Wellness and Nutrition Society. Dr. Mila owns a private practice in Portland, OR, with special interests in advanced dry eye treatments, nutritional counseling, and aesthetic services.

Send us a textAbout:Alex Kotelsky is a medical device engineer at Bausch + Lomb where he leads innovative optical projects in the research and development of advanced contact lens designs.With a robust background in both theoretical and applied sciences, Alex has a Ph.D. and has postdoctoral training in biomechanics and mechanobiology of articular cartilage and chondrocytes. His research has produced multiple peer-reviewed publications that shed light on the mechanical interactions within biological systems. By integrating biology, mechanics and optics, Alex brings aninterdisciplinary approach that advances both the performance and comfort of contact lenses, benefiting eye care professionals and patients alike.In addition to his research, Alex is deeply committed to education, fostering the next generation of engineers and scientists. His dedication to teaching has earned him multiple accolades, including the prestigious Edward Peck Curtis Award for Excellence in Teaching and recognition as a Top 3 Finalist for Tutor Doctor's Tutor of the Year 2019 award.James DiBella is a Senior Principal Scientist and head of Polymer Chemistry at Bausch + Lomb, where he leads a team focused on creating innovative materials and solutions for the contact lens and ophthalmic industries. Since joining Bausch + Lomb in 2015, James has been instrumental in product development for the company's vision care business. He notably co-invented Bausch + Lomb's latest contact lens technology - Bausch + Lomb INFUSE ® .He holds a bachelor's degree in Organic Chemistry from Clemson University as well as a master's degree in Organic Chemistry from the Florida Institute of Technology. He is also in the process of obtaining a master's degree in business administration from Manning School of Business at the University of Massachusetts to merge his scientific expertise with strategic business acumen.

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Send us a textAbout Dr. Jade CoatsDr. Jade Coats is a 2016 of the Southern College of Optometry in Memphis, TN, and since graduation has worked in an OD/MD cataract/refractive surgery practice (McDonald Eye Associates, Rogers, Arkansas) in which she dedicates the majority of her clinical practice to ocular disease, comprehensive eye care, and contact lenses. Honored as a Contact Lens Institute Visionary in both 2023 and 2024, Dr. Coats is also a board member for Women in Optometry, the Intrepid Eye Society, and YoungODsConnect. She is an active member of the American Optometric Association as a graduate of the AOA Leadership Institute 1.0 and 2.0 programs, and was also elected in 2024 to serve as a Director on the Arkansas Optometric Association board.   In addition to her clinical work, Dr. Coats serves on the advisory board and/or as a speaker for over ten pharmaceutical companies and is an editorial board member for numerous publications.  She also regularly contributes to leading industry publications, with her work appearing in Advanced Ocular Care, Primary Care Ocular News, Healio, Review of Optometry, Optometry Times, Optometric Management, and Modern Optometry, to name a few. Receiving several local, state, and national awards for her dedication to philanthropy and her profession, Dr. Coats has also recently been honored as one of NWA Celebrate Arkansas Magazine's 'Ones to Watch' in 2023.  https://digitaleditions.walsworth.com/publication/?m=9337&i=805683&p=80&ver=html5.   In Dr. Coats' spare time, she serves on the Board of Directors for Hope Cancer Resources and Circle of Life Hospice in Northwest Arkansas and has established a non-profit organization known as “Caton's Cubs” that works in coordination with Arkansas Hospice. You may find Dr. Coats enjoys calling the Hogs at Razorback games, scuba diving, traveling the world, or volunteering in her community. (Or, hanging out with her husband, Jeff Coats, who is also an Optometrist!)

Send us a textAbout Dr. Jade CoatsDr. Jade Coats is a 2016 of the Southern College of Optometry in Memphis, TN, and since graduation has worked in an OD/MD cataract/refractive surgery practice (McDonald Eye Associates, Rogers, Arkansas) in which she dedicates the majority of her clinical practice to ocular disease, comprehensive eye care, and contact lenses. Honored as a Contact Lens Institute Visionary in both 2023 and 2024, Dr. Coats is also a board member for Women in Optometry, the Intrepid Eye Society, and YoungODsConnect. She is an active member of the American Optometric Association as a graduate of the AOA Leadership Institute 1.0 and 2.0 programs, and was also elected in 2024 to serve as a Director on the Arkansas Optometric Association board.   In addition to her clinical work, Dr. Coats serves on the advisory board and/or as a speaker for over ten pharmaceutical companies and is an editorial board member for numerous publications.  She also regularly contributes to leading industry publications, with her work appearing in Advanced Ocular Care, Primary Care Ocular News, Healio, Review of Optometry, Optometry Times, Optometric Management, and Modern Optometry, to name a few. Receiving several local, state, and national awards for her dedication to philanthropy and her profession, Dr. Coats has also recently been honored as one of NWA Celebrate Arkansas Magazine's 'Ones to Watch' in 2023.  https://digitaleditions.walsworth.com/publication/?m=9337&i=805683&p=80&ver=html5.   In Dr. Coats' spare time, she serves on the Board of Directors for Hope Cancer Resources and Circle of Life Hospice in Northwest Arkansas and has established a non-profit organization known as “Caton's Cubs” that works in coordination with Arkansas Hospice. You may find Dr. Coats enjoys calling the Hogs at Razorback games, scuba diving, traveling the world, or volunteering in her community. (Or, hanging out with her husband, Jeff Coats, who is also an Optometrist!)

Send us a textAbout Dr. John D. Marvin,John D. Marvin is a visionary entrepreneur, acclaimed columnist, and influential leader dedicated to empowering others to unlock their full potential. As President and CEO of Texas State Optical, John has cultivated a thriving business network while spearheading initiatives in health and wellness consulting and eyecare partnerships. With a steadfast commitment to personal growth, John has spent years studying the transformative power of mindset and the “inner game” in achieving success. Beyond his entrepreneurial endeavors, Through his unwavering dedication to making a difference, John D. Marvin epitomizes the essenceof leadership and empowerment, making him a compelling guest for any podcast seeking to inspire and motivate their audience. TSO brings in around 110M$ in revenue annually.

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Send us a textAbout Dr. KalfayanDr. Nona Kalfayan is a leading expert in her field of primary eye health, and a highly sought-after physician specializing in treating dry eye disease nationwide. She holds a Doctor of Optometry Degree from Nova Southeastern University (NSU) College of Optometry, specializing in advanced ocular surface disease. Dr. Kalfayan's dedication lies in holistic and preventive eye care. As the founder of Atlantic Eyecare & Spa in Pompano Beach, Florida, she specializes in Dry Eye, non-surgical ocular aesthetics, specialty contact lenses and myopic control. Atlantic Eyecare & Spa is renowned for its cutting-edge diagnostic technology and drop-less treatments for dry eye condition. Dr. Kalfayan was honored as one of “America's Top Optometrists” in 2012 and is a frequent public speaker, healthcare consultant, and advisor to some major institutions in the eye care industry. Additionally, she serves as the treasurer for the Broward County Optometric Association and is a member of the Florida Optometric Association and the American Optometric Association.

Send us a textIn this episode of The OI Show, Dr. Dave Kading reconnects with Dr. Jennifer Stewart, a visionary in optometry and practice management. After selling her successful large group practice in 2022, Dr. Stewart took a leap of faith, stepping away from clinical care and embarking on a transformative journey of consulting, speaking, and self-reflection. Fast forward to 2024, she's back with a cold-start boutique practice in New Canaan, Connecticut, redefining what it means to create a patient-centered optometric experience.Key Takeaways:The challenges and rewards of stepping away from a large practice and starting fresh.How Dr. Stewart built a streamlined, patient-focused practice with no front desk, paperless systems, and a smaller but highly efficient team.Insights into controlling costs, balancing high-quality care with profitability, and creating a unique patient experience.Lessons learned from listening, observing, and taking inspiration from industry trends while crafting a personalized vision for her new practice.Dr. Stewart shares candidly about her journey, from moments of doubt to the triumph of building a practice that aligns with her passion and values.Looking for inspiration to start fresh or rethink your practice model? Tune in to hear Dr. Stewart's actionable insights and innovative approaches. Don't forget to subscribe to The OI Show for more episodes with industry leaders and leave us a 5-star review to help others discover these transformative conversations!

About Dr. Elise KramerDr. Elise Kramer is a residency-trained optometrist in Miami FL who specializes in ocular surface disease and specialty contact lens design and fitting.Her Doctorate degree was awarded in Optometry from the Université de Montréal in 2012. During her fourth year, she completed her internship in ocular disease at the Eye Centers of South Florida and went on to complete her residency at the Miami VA Medical Center. Her time there included training at the Bascom Palmer Eye Institute, the nation's top eye hospital. After her residency, Dr. Kramer became a fellow of the Scleral Lens Education Society (SLS) and now serves as the vice president for the SLS. Dr. Kramer is also vice president of Women in Eyecare (WiE), a member of the American Optometric Association (AOA), the International Association of Contact Lens Educators (IACLE), a Fellow of the American Academy of Optometry (AAO) and of the the British Contact Lens Association (BCLA). She is also the Delegate of International Relations for the Italian Association of Scleral Lenses (AILeS).  Dr. Kramer has published several important articles and reviews and is participates in clinical research trials. She enjoys lecturing all around the world in several different languages about ocular surface disease and specialty lenses. 

In this episode of The OI Show, Dr. Dave Kading sits down with Zach Denning, Director of Scientific and Professional Affairs at Science Based Health, to explore the fascinating intersection of dry eye management and nutrition. With over two decades in the field, Zach sheds light on the science of omega fatty acids and their role in combating ocular inflammation and improving tear production.Key Takeaways:The groundbreaking role of GLA (gamma-linolenic acid) in dry eye management, sourced from plant-based oils like black currant seed oil.Insights into clinical trials showcasing GLA's ability to lower inflammation, improve corneal smoothness, and enhance patient outcomes.How nutrition complements traditional dry eye treatments for a holistic inside-out approach.The critical difference between GLA and traditional omega-3 fish oils, plus tips for explaining these distinctions to patients.Strategies for ensuring patient compliance with evidence-based nutritional therapies.Want to elevate your dry eye care? Learn how nutrition can play a transformative role in patient outcomes! Listen now and subscribe to The OI Show for more insights from leading experts in the field. Visit ScienceBasedHealth.com to explore their innovative products and resources.About Zac Denning Zac Denning is the Director of Scientific & Professional Affairs at ScienceBased Health (SBH), which he joined in 1999. Following his passion for science, Mr. Denning studied biology and biochemistry at Evergreen where he received his Bachelor of Science. Working alongside scientists, clinicians and researchers, he has helped SBH pioneer new categories of eye supplements that are now widely recognized and utilized in eye care. Zac travels and presents widely, educating eye doctors and medical groups about the scientific basis for eye nutrition.Zac has also helped maintain the company's focus on primary clinical research in areas like dry eye and glaucoma. As a leader in eye nutrition and dry eye, Zac serves on the Corporate Advisory Board for Dry Eye Access and other companies, and has been profiled or featured in a variety of eyecare publications.

Join Dr. Mile Brujic on the OI Show as he delves into the intricate world of neuropathic ocular pain with expert guest, Dr. Kaleb Abbott. As an optometrist and assistant professor at the University of Colorado School of Medicine, Dr. Abbott specializes in complex ocular surface diseases. Together, they uncover the nuances of neuropathic dry eye, a condition challenging to diagnose and treat.Key Highlights:Understanding neuropathic ocular pain: When symptoms outweigh signs.Insights into diagnostic tools like in vivo confocal microscopy and the role of proparacaine testing.Practical approaches to differentiate peripheral and central neuropathic pain.Off-label treatments, including varenicline nasal spray and its potential in trigeminal nerve modulation.Strategies for co-managing patients with neurologists and pain specialists.Dr. Abbott shares actionable tips to help eye care professionals manage these complex cases, improve patient outcomes, and explore emerging therapies.Tune in to learn cutting-edge insights into managing neuropathic pain in practice! Subscribe to the OI Show for more expert-driven episodes, and don't forget to share this episode with colleagues passionate about advancing patient care.About Kaleb Abbott Is an optometrist and assistant professor of ophthalmology at the University of Colorado School of Medicine. He is faculty in both the Dry Eye Clinic and the Center for Ocular Inflammation where he specializes in complex ocular surface disease and participates in clinical trials/research pertaining to ocular surface disease. In addition to his clinical and research duties, he is on the board of directors for the Ocular Wellness and Nutrition Society; Vice Chair of the Nutrition, Disease Prevention, and Wellness SIG for AAO; on the advisory council for the Academic Medical Center Optometry AAO SIG; and on the editorial advisory board for Optometry360. He will be graduating from the AAO Flom Leadership Academy at AAO 2024. In 2024, he became host of the Dry Eye and Ocular Surface Disease section of the Clinical Podcast Series through the American Academy of Optometry Foundation. In 2019, Kaleb co-founded a start-up company called SunSnap Kids which took 1st place in the inaugural Bright Ideas Pitch Competition in 2022 and 3rd place in the Optometry Innovation Awards in 2023. Recently he sold the majority of this company to focus more on his clinical and research responsibilities at the University of Colorado. When not seeing patients, conducting research, or working on SunSnap Kids, Dr. Abbott lectures on ocular surface disease, writes articles, and is a medical reviewer for multiple medical journals including The Ocular Surface and Optometry and Vision Science. He resides in Denver, CO with his wife, daughter, and newborn twins. 

About  Dr. Julie Rodman Is the Chief of the Broward Eye Care Institute in Fort Lauderdale, FL and aProfessor of Optometry at Nova Southeastern University. She also is the Instructor of Recordfor Posterior Segment Disease at the College. Her research interests include OCT/OCTA andVitreoretinal Disease. Dr. Rodman has authored over thirty publications with an emphasis onretinal disease. She recently published “Optical Coherence Tomography Atlas: A Case StudyApproach”, the first reference book on this topic written by an optometrist. Dr. Rodman is amember of the AOA, AAO, FOA, and ORS. She has been the recipient of numerous teachingawards, was recognized as a Primary Care Optometry News “Top 300” Optometrists and“Newsweek Best Optometrists of 2023”.

About Kaleb Abbott Is an optometrist and assistant professor of ophthalmology at the University of Colorado School of Medicine. He is faculty in both the Dry Eye Clinic and the Center for Ocular Inflammation where he specializes in complex ocular surface disease and participates in clinical trials/research pertaining to ocular surface disease. In addition to his clinical and research duties, he is on the board of directors for the Ocular Wellness and Nutrition Society; Vice Chair of the Nutrition, Disease Prevention, and Wellness SIG for AAO; on the advisory council for the Academic Medical Center Optometry AAO SIG; and on the editorial advisory board for Optometry360. He will be graduating from the AAO Flom Leadership Academy at AAO 2024. In 2024, he became host of the Dry Eye and Ocular Surface Disease section of the Clinical Podcast Series through the American Academy of Optometry Foundation. In 2019, Kaleb co-founded a start-up company called SunSnap Kids which took 1st place in the inaugural Bright Ideas Pitch Competition in 2022 and 3rd place in the Optometry Innovation Awards in 2023. Recently he sold the majority of this company to focus more on his clinical and research responsibilities at the University of Colorado. When not seeing patients, conducting research, or working on SunSnap Kids, Dr. Abbott lectures on ocular surface disease, writes articles, and is a medical reviewer for multiple medical journals including The Ocular Surface and Optometry and Vision Science. He resides in Denver, CO with his wife, daughter, and newborn twins. 

About Mike CymborIs a dynamic and engaging speaker.  He lectures frequently on the topics of glaucoma and advanced diagnostic procedures.  He also speaks on diabetic retinopathy, macular degeneration, dry eye and ocular surface disease.  He has a growing interest in the intersection between health, diet and ocular disease.  Dr. Cymbor is a managing partner in one of the largest optometric practices in the country.  He directly oversees a million dollar-plus contact lens practice.  Dr. Cymbor and his wife, Autumn, have three grown children.  He loves being a husband and a father.  Recreationally, he bikes, hikes, swims, runs and generally prefers to be in motion.

About Dr. Lighthizer Born and raised in Bismarck, North Dakota, Dr. Nate Lighthizer, O.D., F.A.A.O., is a graduate of Pacific University College of Optometry.  Upon graduation, he completed a residency in Family Practice Optometry with an emphasis in Ocular Disease and Laser and Surgical Optometry through Northeastern State University Oklahoma College of Optometry (NSUOCO).  Dr. Lighthizer has since joined the faculty at the Oklahoma College of Optometry and has served as the Chief of Specialty Care Clinics and the Chief of Electrodiagnostics Clinic.   In 2014, he founded and now heads the Dry Eye Clinic at the College of Optometry.  Also in 2014, he was named the Director of Continuing Education as well as the Assistant Dean for Clinical Care Services at the Oklahoma College of Optometry.  Starting in 2020, he was named the Associate Dean of the NSU Oklahoma College of Optometry.  In July 2024, he was named the Dean of the Oklahoma College of Optometry.  He is a founding member, and currently serves as Immediate Past President, of the Intrepid Eye Society which is a group of emerging thought leaders in optometry.  He was named a member of PCON 250 – A list of the top 250 optometrists in the country who practice progressively, provide innovative patient care, conduct optometric research or excel in academia and share what they have learned with other optometrists to advance the profession.  Dr. Lighthizer lectures nationally and internationally on numerous topics, most notably advanced ophthalmic procedures, electrodiagnostics, and ocular disease.   

About Dr. Pucker,Dr. Andrew Pucker is the Executive Director of Clinical and Medical Sciences at Lexitas Pharma Services. He earned his BS in Cellular and Molecular Biology from the University of Wisconsin-La Crosse, and he earned his OD, MS, and PhD degrees from The Ohio State University. His independent research career has focused on dry eye disease, contact lenses, and myopia development. He has authored over 50 peer-reviewed publications and over 160 editor reviewed columns. Dr. Pucker is a Fellow and Diplomate of the American Academy of Optometry, Fellow of the Scleral Lens Education Society, and Fellow of the British Contact Lens Association. 

About Jason Besecker OD, MSDr. Jason Besecker is the founder and managing director of Envision Specialty EyeCare & Dry Eye Center, the first and only eye care clinic in Idaho dedicated to the treatment and management of ocular conditions responsible for dry eye symptoms. Even though dry eye  is the focus, Dr. Besecker also enjoys helping patients manage their glaucoma, age related macular degeneration, diabetic retinopathy and taking care of ocular emergencies. Prior to opening his specialty dry eye clinic, Dr. Besecker was an associate at Hollingshead Eye Center, a cataract and LASIK referral center, from 2014-2021 where he was able to gain significant experience in the areas of ocular disease and surgical co-management. While practicing at Hollingshead Eye Center, he began to see the increase in patient complaints related to dry eye symptoms. It became evident that there was a need for advanced dry eye services within the community which resulted in him founding Envsion Specialty EyeCare in June of 2021.Dr. Besecker has called Boise, ID home since he was young. He received his Bachelors and Masters of Science in Biology from Boise State University, and went on to earn a Doctor of Optometry at Indiana University School of Optometry. He completed internships in the treatment and management of ocular disease, pre and post operative surgical care, and primary eye care at Indian University School of Optometry, Hudson Valley VA Medical Center, and at the Eye Institute of Utah. Outside of helping others with their eyecare needs, Dr. Besecker enjoys travel, bouldering, and enjoying what the Idaho outdoors has to offer. 

About Dr. Maria WalkerMaria Walker OD, MS, PhD is a clinician scientist with a focus on keratoconus,childhood myopia, and specialty contact lenses. She graduated with an OD/MS fromThe New England College of Optometry in Boston, MA, USA in 2013 and thencompleted a one-year Cornea & Contact Lens Residency at Pacific University inPortland, OR. She joined the faculty at University of Houston College of Optometry(UHCO) in 2014 and went on to complete a PhD on the impact of a scleral lens on theeye in 2021. Dr. Walker is currently an Assistant Professor at UHCO and runs aresearch lab studying keratoconus, the tear film, and the effects of scleral lenses. Sheis also an investigator on the BLINK study to evaluate the use of soft multifocal contactlenses in reducing myopic progression in children and provides specialty contact lenspatient care two days per week. Dr. Walker is a Fellow in the American Academy ofOptometry, a Past President of the Scleral Lens Education Society, and an advisoryboard member of the Gas Permeable Lens Institute.

About Dr. Janelle DavisonDr. Janelle Davison, an award-winning optometrist, graduated from the Pennsylvania College of Optometry at Salus University in 2006. With 18 years of experience in private practice, Dr. Davison is highly respected in the optometric industry. She has received numerous accolades, including being named "The Most Influential Women in Optical for Innovation" by Vision Monday in 2022.As the Founder and owner of Brilliant Eyes, a full-scope primary care vision center in Smyrna, Georgia, Dr. Davison leads a team committed to providing exceptional eye care. She is also the founder of the Visionary Dry Eye Institute of Georgia, a revolutionary referral and co-management center dedicated to advanced dry eye disease services, set to open in spring 2024. Additionally, she co-founded Paradeyem Software, a web-based retail optical solution, where she serves as the Chief Visionary Officer. Paradeyem Software was recognized as a winner of the inaugural 2022 Eyes on Eyecare Innovation Award, securing a grant and grand prize.  Dr. Davison is dedicated to empowering young women of color interested in optometry as a co-founder of S.C.O.R.E., Inc., a non-profit organization.Dr. Davison actively contributes to the optometric community and holds important positions within professional organizations. She serves as an executive board member for the IDOC Alliance group, which consists of over 3000 independent ODs. Additionally, she is a proud member of esteemed associations such as the American Optometric Association, National Optometric Association, and Georgia Optometric Association. Dr. Davison's expertise also extends to her role as a speaker and consultant for Alcon, Tarsus, RVL, and Viatris Pharmaceuticals. Furthermore, she has showcased her knowledge and experience through published articles in various publications including Review Optometric Business, Optometry Times, Optometric Management, Independent Strong, and Modern Optometry.Dr. Davison is an active member of her community serving as an advisory board member for the Cobb County Schools Health and Work-based learning program. For over a decade her vision center has served as an internship location for junior and senior high school students interested in health sciences. Lastly, she is an active member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc.Beyond her professional achievements, Dr. Davison treasures valuable moments spent with her husband of 18 years and two teenage children.

About Dr. Bollinger Dr. Bollinger is a board-certified optometrist and a Fellow of the American Academy ofOptometry which demonstrates her commitment to excellence and lifelong learning inher profession. She has participated in advisory board meetings & also as a KeyOpinion Leader for companies such as Alcon, Ocular Therapeutix, Novartis, ScienceBased Health, Viatris, and TearScience. She enjoys educating which allows herto share her passion and expertise on dry eye and ocular surgery with other eye careprofessionals and the public. She earned her undergraduate degree in Biology at MiamiUniversity in Ohio and her Doctor of Optometry degree at Ohio State University. Sheserved as an adjunct clinical professor at Ohio State University from 2006-2012. Shehas participated as a clinical investigator in several FDA pharmaceutical and surgicalstudies for dry eye disease, presbyopia, topical steroids, intraocular lenses, andDemodex blepharitis. Her primary career goal is to help patients achieve optimal visionand eye health through personalized and evidence-based care.As an optometrist with 30+ years of experience, she strives to provide exceptional eyecare to patients with various ocular conditions and needs. She has extensiveexperience in perioperative surgical eye care, managing thousands of cases ofrefractive, cataract, and cornea surgeries throughout her career. Dr. Bollinger is alsoskilled in medical eye care, treating patients with glaucoma, diabetes, maculardegeneration, and dry eyes. Helping patients with ocular surface disease, including dryeye, meibomian gland disease, & blepharitis is her primary passion. She currently sees patients at Jacksoneye in Lake Villa, Illinois.

Thanks to TEEM for their support of this episode. If you're considering or have ever considered getting a virtual team member for your practice check out hiredteem.com, mention The OI Show when signing up for a $250 dollar discount off of your first month's teem member.https://hireteem.com/oi-show/ 

Thanks to TEEM for their support of this episode. If you're considering or have ever considered getting a virtual team member for your practice check out hiredteem.com, mention The OI Show when signing up for a $250 dollar discount off of your first month's teem member.About Cory PinegarCory Pinegar is Chief Executive Officer of Utah-based CallForce, a groundbreaking dental service startup helping dental practices increase patient engagement and revenue. In 2016, at the age of  22, Cory struck gold and purchased the company—then named Recall Solutions—from software giant Weave for just one dollar. Since then, the visionary entrepreneur has grown CallForce from 35 clients to nearly 3,000 and with a workforce of close to 200 employees. CallForce has been named one of the fastest-growing companies by Inc. 500 and has been recognized repeatedly by the Salt Lake Tribune as one of the Best Places to Work. In 2021, Cory founded the remote staffing company Teem, which helps simplify hiring international talent. Teem allows businesses to circumvent domestic staffing issues and find qualified talent without worrying about complicated research to understand legalities, fair compensation, and the like. Cory sits on the boards of software-driven dental insurance verification company Verrific as well as The Parkinson's Foundation, devoted to finding a cure for the disease his father was diagnosed with in 2014.Cory studied economics and business at Brigham Young University and spends his leisure time skiing, playing golf, and enjoying the mountain lifestyle.

About Dr. Mila IoussifovaGraduated with honors from the New England College of Optometry and completed a residency program in community health and ocular disease in Boston, MA. She is a fellow of the American Academy of Optometry and is on the leadership team of the Anterior Segment Section of the AAO. Dr. Mila served as an adjunct clinical faculty at the Pacific University College of Optometry and was an examiner for the National Board of Examiners in Optometry. She is a Board-Certified Nutrition Specialist and studied Human Nutrition and Functional Medicine at the University of Western States. Dr. Mila owns a private practice specializing in advanced dry eye treatments, nutritional counseling, and aesthetic services. 

About Dr.  Douglas K. DevriesDouglas K. Devries, OD co-founded Eye Care Associates of Nevada in 1992, and since then, has limited his practice to surgical co-management and diseases of the eye. His specific area of interest has been in ocular surface disease, which makes up the majority of his clinical practice. Dr. Devries lectures to colleagues extensively, both nationally and internationally, on anterior segment eye disease. He is the director of the optometric residency program and optometric fourth year intern program at Eye Care Associates and is an Associate Clinical Professor of Optometry.

About Dr. Vittorio MenaDr. Vittorio Mena is the sports vision director at Optical Academy in Clifton, NJ. He also serves as an advanced clinical director for Special Olympics Lions Club International Opening Eyes program for the state of NJ. He graduated from Seton Hall University with both a B.S. in Biology and a M.S. in Microbiology. He received his professional degree from Pennsylvania College of Optometry at Salus University in 2014. Dr. Mena is on the board of directors for his state association NJSOP. In 2019, he was awarded as the NJ Young Optometrist of the year. In 2020 he received the Public Service Award from Salus University. He also serves on the AOA's Sports & Performance Vision Committee. He is a regular monthly contributor to Review of Optometric Business columns and enjoys lecturing on nutrition, myopia management, concussion management, brain health, sports vision performance and finance.

Thanks for your interest in this podcast. Please read this important program information before listening. Access to the post-test and to claim credit for participating is included below.Activity OverviewThis PER® Spectives™ podcast features a discussion among 3 optometrists on challenges and unmet needs associated with traditional treatments for meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD)-related dry eye disease (DED) — and opportunities for MGD treatment that may come with new and emerging topical therapies. In addition, the panel discusses myths and misconceptions that may affect outcomes in patients with MGD-DED. This program is designed to help clinicians better appreciate the impact ofMGD-DED on patients and optimize the growing toolkit of available therapies.Accreditation/Credit DesignationPhysicians' Education Resource®, LLC, is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Continuing Medical Education (ACCME) to provide continuing medical education for physicians.Physicians' Education Resource®, LLC, designates this enduring material for a maximum of 0.25 AMAPRA Category 1 Credits™. Physicians should claim only the credit commensurate with the extent of their participation in the activity.Acknowledgment of Educational Grant SupportThis activity is supported by an educational grant from Bausch + Lomb.Target Audience This educational activity will be targeted to practitioners who are involved in treating patients with MGD, such as Optometrists, Ophthalmologists, NPs, PAs, and nurses.Learning ObjectivesUpon successful completion of this activity, you should be better prepared to: • Analyze key trial data and real-world evidence surrounding current treatments for MGD-associatedDED• Evaluate key clinical trial data for emerging agents being studied for the potential treatment of MGD-associated DEDFaculty:Mile Brujic, OD, FAAOPartnerPremier Vision GroupBowling Green, OHDisclosures: Advisory/Research Support: ABB Optical, Alcon Laboratories, Allergan, Art Optical, Bausch +Lomb Health, Contamac, CooperVision, CSEye, Horizon Therapeutics, Johnson & Johnson Vision Care,Kala, Novartis, Optovue, Oyster Point, RVL, Sun Pharma, Tarsus, Tangible Science, Santen, WalmanOptical, ZeaVisionDavid Kading, OD, FAAO, FCLSADisclosuresWalter Whitley, OD, MBA, FAAODirector of Professional Relations and EducationRegional Medical Director - Mid-AtlanticEyeCare Partners, LLCDisclosures: Consultant: Alcon, Allergan, Bausch + Lomb, Bruder, I-MED Pharma USA, KalaPharmaceuticals, Novartis, Oyster Point Pharma, Regener-Eyes, Santen Pharmaceutical, ScienceBasedHealth, Sun Pharma, Tarsus Pharmaceuticals, Théa Pharma; Speakers' Bureau: Alcon, Allergan, Bausch +Lomb, Kala Pharmaceuticals, Novartis, Oyster Point Pharma, Santen Pharmaceutical, ScienceBasedHealth, Sun Pharma.The staff of Physicians' Education Resource®, LLC, have no relevant financial relationships with ineligible companies. PER® mitigated all COI for faculty, staff, and planners prior to the start of this activity by using a multistep process.Off-Label Disclosure and DisclaimerThis activity may or may not discuss investigational, unapproved, or off-label use of drugs.Learners are advised to consult prescribing information for any products discussed. Theinformation provided in this accredited activity is for continuing education purposes only and is not meant to substitute for the independent clinical judgment of a healthcare professional relative to diagnostic, treatment, or management options for a specific patient's medical condition. The opinions expressed in the content are solely those of the individual faculty members and do not reflect those of PER® or any company that provided commercial support

Thanks for your interest in this podcast. Please read this important program information before listening. Access to the post-test and to claim credit for participating is included below.Activity OverviewThis PER® Spectives™ podcast features a discussion among 3 optometrists on concerns related to the use of preserved eye lubricants for patients with dry dye disease. In addition, the panel discusses developments in components within these products to support the ocular surface, including trehalose and hyaluronic acid. This program is designed to help clinicians better match specific eye lubrication products to individual patient needs, thereby improving the chances of superior outcomes.Accreditation/Credit DesignationPhysicians' Education Resource®, LLC, is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Continuing Medical Education (ACCME) to provide continuing medical education for physicians. Physicians' Education Resource®, LLC, designates this enduring material for a maximum of 0.25 AMA PRA Category 1 Credits™. Physicians should claim only the credit commensurate with the extent of their participation in the activity.Acknowledgment of Educational Grant SupportThis activity is supported by an educational grant from Thea Pharmaceuticals, Inc.Target Audience  This educational activity will be targeted to clinicians who are involved in treating patients with dry eye disease such as optometrists, ophthalmologists, NPs, PAs, and nurses.Learning ObjectivesUpon successful completion of this activity, you should be better prepared to: • Recognize the potential deleterious impact preservatives have on the ocular surface• Summarize novel formulations for the management of DEDFaculty:Mile Brujic, OD, FAAOPartnerPremier Vision GroupBowling Green, OHDisclosures: Advisory/Research Support: ABB Optical, Alcon Laboratories, Allergan, Art Optical, Bausch +Lomb Health, Contamac, CooperVision, CSEye, Horizon Therapeutics, Johnson & Johnson Vision Care,Kala, Novartis, Optovue, Oyster Point, RVL, Sun Pharma, Tarsus, Tangible Science, Santen, WalmanOptical, ZeaVisionDavid Kading, OD, FAAO, FCLSACEO/OwnerSpecialty EyeKirkland, WA / Bellevue,WADisclosures:Alcon, Allergan, Avellino, Bausch + Lomb, BioTissue, CooperVision, EyeVance, Eye Promise Euclid, Horizon Lumenis, Oculus,Orasis, Oculaphire, Medmont, Novartis, Sun Pharma, TearScience, Thea, Trukara, Valley Contax, Visus Theraputics, Zeiss, andZeaVision.DisclosuresSelina R. McGee, OD, FAAOCEO/OwnerBeSpoke VisionPresidentIntrepid Eye SocietyOklahoma Board of Examiners in OptometryEdmond, OKDisclosures: Consultant: Horizon Therapeutics.The staff of Physicians' Education Resource®, LLC, have no relevant financial relationships with ineligible companies. PER® mitigated all COI for faculty, staff, and planners prior to the start of this activity by using a multistep process.Off-Label Disclosure and DisclaimerThis activity may or may not discuss investigational, unapproved, or off-label use of drugs.Learners are advised to consult prescribing information for any products discussed. Theinformation provided in this accredited activity is for continuing education purposes only and is not meant to substitute for the independent clinical judgment of a healthcare professional relative to diagnostic, treatment, or management options for a specific patient's medical condition. The opinions expressed in the content are solely those of the individual faculty members and do not reflect those of PER® or any company that provided commercial supportfor this activity.