“These are exciting times in ophthalmology! For 2023 I am looking forward to learning more about some of the new products that are becoming available to practice administrators and applying ‘outside the box’ strategies to addressing some of the issues that we face on a daily basis, such as staffing shortages, registration efficiencies and patient satisfaction.”

Ashlie Barefoot Malone, MBA, JD, COE, Practice AdministratorCarolina Cataract & Laser Center

“I’m excited to finally attend live meetings and see my ophthalmic friends, make new ones, and participate actively, face to face in 2023. It’s been a long three years keeping us apart. I’m looking forward to seeing everyone again.”

Sergina M. Flaherty, COMT, OSC, CTC, (F)ATPO, Ophthalmic TechnologistStone Oak Ophthalmology

“Three years of COVID have taught us the need to adjust patient flow and be more flexible. I am hopeful that this experience has disrupted historical clinical patterns to the extent that newer, more efficient clinical models may be incorporated in practice. I am also very excited about innovations in many aspects of ophthalmic imaging — stay tuned!”

Darrin A. Landry, CRA, OCT-C, FOPS, Diagnostic Imaging Department ManagerEyecare Medical Group

“The year 2022 was a year like no other, starting with the passing of a beloved surgeon, and ending with a devastating hurricane. In 2023, my professional goals hinge on initiatives to support and build our talented team and provide them opportunities for their growth and development.”

Myra Cherchio, COMT, COE, Vice President of Operations,SW Florida US Eye

“I believe 2023 is going to be an amazing year. This past year in my practice we invested in the training and education of our entire team and I’m excited to see their continued progress, growth, and connection this year. Professionally, I’m looking forward to connecting with my colleagues at the annual meetings and continuing my focus to help grow and mentor the next generation of ophthalmic administrators.”

Carrie Jacobs, COE, CPSS, OCS, Executive Vice President of OperationsChu Vision Institute

“In 2023, I would like to see a culture of caring ... An increase in job satisfaction and retention, a dedication to staff training with renewed vigor, and I want to see customer service and patient care resume its elevated status on everyone’s priority lists.”

Amy Jost,Manager, Clinical Education
EyeCare Partners

“Professionally, I am looking forward to expanding my certifications and degree, and expanding our practice team. Also, I am looking forward to introducing the new techs and admin staff to their first Academy experience at Academy 2023. In addition, I’m excited about opportunities to deliver medical content to patients who are taking more ownership of their health.”

Lynn Girdlestone, COA, OSA, OSC, Practice ManagerSwedberg Eye Care

In Brief

Zeiss launched the Open Office Hours program, 45-minute weekly training sessions curated specifically for new technicians to build instrument skills and confidence. Led by the Zeiss Clinical Applications team, each session covers one specific instrument (CIRRUS OCT, IOLMaster, CLARUS or HFA3), discussing what it does, why the doctor would order the testing, and best practices for acquiring images and measurements. For more information, visit bit.ly/ZEISSOpenOfficeHours .

Thea Pharma, Inc. announced FDA approval for the New Drug Application of IYUZEH (latanoprost ophthalmic solution) 0.005%, for the reduction of elevated intraocular pressure (IOP) in patients with open-angle glaucoma (OAG) or ocular hypertension (OHT). IYUZEH is the first and only clinically proven formulation of latanoprost available in the United States that is preservative-free.

Lumibird Medical announced the launch of their next generation YAG/SLT laser, the Tango Reflex Neo by Ellex. A fully integrated Q-switched Nd:YAG and frequency doubled Nd:YAG laser for anterior-segment YAG and glaucoma indications, the FDA 510K-approved Tango Reflex Neo features second-generation Reflex technology with True Coaxial Illumination, enhancing visualization of anterior and posterior segments.

AEYE Health received 510(k) clearance from the FDA to market its diagnostic screening system, the AEYE-DS, for diabetic retinopathy. The AEYE-DS is indicated for use with images obtained by the Topcon NW-400 desktop retinal camera.