Each guideline listing includes the issuing organization and the date of the most recent update, so you can quickly gauge how current the information is before diving in — although an older date doesn’t mean it’s unhelpful. Regarding the glaucoma section, RO notes “many of the older reports will not reflect the current scientific literature, [but] you may nevertheless find them worthwhile to review, especially on topics such as anatomy and pathophysiology, which are less likely to become outdated by advances in technology.”

You’ll find linked resources from the American Optometric Association, American Academy of Ophthalmology, International Myopia Institute, Tear Film and Ocular Surface Society, World Glaucoma Association, and several international specialty societies.

RO notes that the index will continue to be updated as new guidelines are released, with plans to expand coverage as additional expert bodies publish recommendations. You can also share feedback if there are specific documents or sources you’d like to see added.

See the full directory here: Index of Clinical Guidelines for Optometrists

The post A New Way To Find Evidence-Based Optometric Guidelines appeared first on Optometry 411.

Notes: A few of the events in the back half of 2026 are TBD on details. We’ll update as appropriate and reshare to keep you in the loop. We’d also recommend subscribing to our weekly newsletter, which always includes a list of virtual CE sessions on a variety of topics.

JANUARY 2026

Global Specialty Lens Symposium (GSLS) 2026
Dates: January 7 – 10, 2026
Location: Las Vegas, Nevada

GSLS focuses on the latest innovations in specialty contact lenses, including scleral lenses, ortho-K, and myopia management. Attendees can benefit from workshops, panel discussions, and networking opportunities with global experts.

Island Eyes Conference 2026
Dates: January 18 – 24, 2026
Location: Waimea, Hawaii

Hosted by Pacific University, this conference offers up to 30 COPE-accredited hours of continuing education, featuring renowned educators and a half-day schedule to allow attendees to enjoy Hawaii’s attractions.

The Vision Council 2026 Executive Summit
Dates: January 26 – 28, 2026
Location: Amelia Island, Florida

A posh event that brings together industry leaders for several days of high-level networking and leadership development. This year’s gathering, themed “Vision 2030,” boasts programming designed to inspire and equip you not only for the coming year, but to streamline your strategy for the next five.

MIDO Eyewear Show 2026
Dates: January 31 – February 2, 2026
Location: Milan, Italy

MIDO is one of the world’s largest international eyewear trade shows, featuring over 1,200 exhibitors and attendees from more than 160 countries. You can expect to see the latest eyewear collections, technological innovations, and industry trends.

FEBRUARY 2026

Eyeball Palm Springs 2026
Date: February 19 – 22, 2026
Location: Palm Springs, California

Here’s a chic, curated event combining eyewear fashion, creativity, and continuing education. Brett Cates, co-creator, is “deeply passionate about independent eyewear and the rejection of corporate influence in both art and eyewear.”

EnVision Summit 2026
Dates: February 13 – 16, 2026
Location: Río Grande, Puerto Rico

This summit is intentionally family-friendly and offers continuing education in ophthalmology and optometry, featuring clinical discussions, mentoring, and research collaborations.

Tropical CE: St. Lucia
Dates: February 14 – 21, 2026
Location: St. Lucia

Learn and unwind at an adults-only luxury retreat on St. Lucia’s Caribbean coast, with breathtaking views of mountains, sunsets, and volcanic beaches. Tropical CE offers destination education administered under the auspices of the Rosenberg School of Optometry, University of the Incarnate Word. The University reviews and endorses all course materials, speakers, and presentations. See other 2026 Tropical CE destinations here.

SECO 2026
Dates: February 25 – March 1, 2026
Location: Atlanta, Georgia

SECO 2026 is a premier event for optometry professionals, covering the latest in laser and surgical applications, aesthetics, artificial intelligence, patient care, and practice success. Attendees can earn over 40 hours of CE throughout the event.

MARCH 2026

The Frame Affair 2026
Dates: March 5 – 7, 2026
Location: New York City, New York

Curated as “a luxury art gallery,” this eyewear show creates a space where independent designers and visionary artisans converge to showcase the finest in eyewear craftsmanship. Think immersive brand storytelling, upscale cuisine and drinks, and a luxury fashion show. Registration is free.

EYECON 2026
Dates: March 6 – 8, 2026
Location: New York City, New York

EYECON is another luxury eyewear show in NYC this week. Exclusive product launches, trend insights, creative exhibitions, and engaging panel discussions will explore innovations shaping the eyewear industry.

Vision Expo 2026
Dates: March 11 – 14, 2026
Location: Orlando, Florida

Where eyewear, education, fashion, and innovation mingle. Join eyecare professionals, buyers, influencers, and technology leaders in Orlando (remember: Vision Expo consolidated East and West and this is now the sole event for the year). Tip: Also consider the 2026 VM Leadership Summit happening in Orlando on 3/11.

AOA on Capitol Hill | AOA Federal Keypersons Summit
Dates: March 15 – 17, 2026
Location: Washington, D.C.

The American Optometric Association’s annual advocacy event moves to March in 2026. This event includes advocacy training, legislative briefings, and opportunities to make a direct impact on policy. The dynamic and focused summit is intended to leverage AOA Federal Keyperson relationships with their U.S. Senate and House members. You might also consider the Aesthetics & Practice Growth Workshop, which the AOA will be hosting in D.C. at this time, too.

New Technologies and Treatments in Eye Care Spring 2026
Dates: March 27– 28, 2026
Location: Carlsbad, California

The most up-to-date research, clinical insights, and technologies shaping the future of eye care. Distinguished faculty will deliver engaging sessions on dry eye, ocular surface disease, refractive management, glaucoma, and retina, along with other emerging challenges and innovations in clinical practice. Join for interactive Q&A sessions, hands-on workshops, live demonstrations, and networking opportunities.

APRIL 2026

20th Annual Controversies in Modern Eye Care
Date: April 19, 2026
Location: Los Angeles, California

This meeting’s goal is to encourage a dialogue between ODs and ophthalmic surgeons in order to optimize patient care. The meeting brings together top optometry and surgical ophthalmology experts to share clinical insights and advances in eye care, allowing learners to update their diagnostic, monitoring, and disease management and practice management skills. Topics will include updates in neovascular age-related macular degeneration, dry eye disease, presbyopia, and diabetic macular edema.

MAY 2026

OEC Abroad
Dates: May 20 – 22, 2026
Location: Amsterdam, Netherlands

While outstanding clinical education is important, Optometric Education Consultants feels that the experience is just as important. They design conferences to allow attendees flexibility in getting continuing education (15 hours in three days) and the opportunity to enjoy the surrounding area. See other OEC 2026 destination CE locations here.

JUNE 2026

International Congress of Scleral Contacts (ICSC) 2026
Dates: June 5 – 6, 2026
Location: San Diego, California

ICSC 2026 offers interactive panels, hands-on workshops, and educational tracks tailored for both experienced and new scleral lens practitioners. Tackle the most perplexing challenges and broach emerging scleral lens trends.

Optometry’s Meeting 2026
Dates: June 17 – 20, 2026
Location: Phoenix, Arizona

Optometry’s Meeting is the annual event for AOA & AOSA members, with all manner of education, innovative and future-looking conversations, career development, and leadership opportunities. Welcoming of optometrists, paraoptometric professionals, and optometry students alike.

JULY 2026

CE in the Rockies
Dates: July 9 – 12, 2026
Location: Estes Park, Colorado

Join the University of Houston College of Optometry for an unforgettable continuing education conference with a view. Earn essential CE credits while immersing yourself in the natural beauty of the Rocky Mountains.

2026 NOA National Convention
Dates: July 8 – 12, 2026
Location: St. Louis, Missouri

Optometrists, students, and industry leaders come together for 14 hours of continuing education, invaluable networking, and engaging social experiences — all designed to advance eye care in underserved communities.

AUGUST 2026

AACO Annual Conference
Dates: August 21 – 22, 2026
Location: Amelia Island, Florida

The American Association of Corporate Optometrists will host two days of CE, networking with corporate optometrists just like you, and 22+ exhibitors. More details to come!

OEC Northern Escape
Dates: August 21 – 23, 2026
Location: Quebec, Canada

While outstanding clinical education is important, Optometric Education Consultants feels that the experience is just as important. They design conferences to allow attendees flexibility in getting continuing education (15 hours in three days) and the opportunity to enjoy the surrounding area. See other OEC 2026 destination CE locations here.

SEPTEMBER 2026

SILMO PARIS
Dates: September 25 – 28, 2026
Location: Paris, France

The post Top Optometry Conferences in 2026 appeared first on Optometry 411.

Continuing education requirements and course approvals vary by state. Verify that the event or provider is accepted by your state’s optometry board or meets COPE-accreditation standards for license renewal. Event details, formats, and credit hours are subject to change at the discretion of the host organization.

In-person CE opportunities

Music City Fall Classic
Dates: October 24 – 26, 2025
Location: Nashville, TN
Features up to 22 hours of COPE-approved learning.
Host: Optometric Education Consultants

EastWest Eye Conference
Dates: November 5 – 8, 2025
Location: Columbus, OH
Features 100 hours of continuing education (max of 24 hours per OD).
Host: Ohio Optometric Association

MOD Live 2025
Dates: November 7 – 9, 2025
Location: Austin, TX
Host: Modern Optometry

Ocular Surface Symposium Fall
Date: November 8, 2025
Format: In person
Location: New York Marriott Marquis, NY
Host: Medscape Live!

Optometric Management Symposium 2025
Date: November 13 – 16, 2025
Location: Disney’s Yacht & Beach Club Resort, Orlando, FL
Topics: A multi-track CE experience covering clinical care, business management, and optical retail.
Host: Optometric Management

New Technologies & Treatments in Eye Care & Intrepid Eye Society’s Innovations and Implementations in Practice
Date: November 15 – 16, 2025
Format: In person
Location: Nashville, TN
Host: Medscape Live!

West Coast Optometric Glaucoma Symposium
Date: December 5 – 6, 2025
Location: La Jolla, CA
Host: Medscape Live!

The Myopia Meeting
Date: December 7, 2025
Location: Markham, Ontario
Host: Review of Myopia Management

Virtual (live) CE sessions

Dry Eye Disease: Diagnosis and Treatment Pearls From the Trenches
Date: October 23, 2025
Time: 7:30 – 8:30 p.m. CT
Format: Virtual (live)
Host: Woo University

Mastering the Optometrist’s Role in IOL Care
Date: October 29, 2025
Time: 7:30 – 8:30 p.m. CT
Format: Virtual (live)
Topic: The optometrist’s expanding role in intraocular lens care and patient management.
Host: Eyes On Eyecare

Genetic Testing and Therapeutic Innovations: Focus on Inherited Retinal Diseases
Date: October 30, 2025
Time: 7:00 p.m. CT
Format: Webinar (virtual)
Topic: Innovations in genetic testing and emerging treatments for retinal disease.
Host: American Optometric Association (AOA OD Talks Webinar Series)

Scleral Lens Fitting and Decision Making From Start to Finish
Date: November 5, 2025
Time: 7:30 – 8:30 p.m. CT
Format: Virtual (live)
Topic: Comprehensive guidance on scleral lens fitting and clinical decision-making.
Host: Woo University

New Keratoconus Practice Insight
Date: November 6, 2025
Time: 7:30 – 8:30 p.m. CT
Format: Virtual (live)
Topic: Updates and clinical pearls for managing keratoconus in modern practice.
Host: Woo University

Managing the Evaporative and Inflammatory Components of Dry Eye Disease
Dates: November 18 or December 9, 2025
Time: 7 – 8 p.m. CT
Format: Virtual (live)
Topic: Deep dive into dry-eye pathophysiology and management.
Host: Eyes On Eyecare

Retina Care in Optometry: When to Manage and When to Co-manage
Date: December 2, 2025 at
Time: 7 – 9 p.m. CT
Format: Virtual (live)
Host: American Board of Optometry

On-demand CE libraries

University of California, Berkeley School of Optometry: On-Demand CE Library
Format: Virtual (on-demand)
Topics: A wide self-paced catalog of COPE-accredited asynchronous courses covering ocular disease, overall optometric practice updates, contact lens fitting, myopia control, and more.
Host: UC Berkeley School of Optometry

ODs on CE: COPE-Approved Online CE Library
Format: Virtual (on-demand)
Topics: Self-paced video lectures covering glaucoma, ocular surface disease, neuro-optometry, and clinical pearls for everyday practice.

Review Education Group: Review’s Continuing Education
Format: Virtual (on-demand)
Topics: A collection of enduring CE activities covering ocular disease, pharmacology, glaucoma, retina, and anterior segment care.

Marshall B. Ketchum University (SCCO): Online CE Portal
Format: Virtual (on-demand)
Topics: Self-paced COPE-approved courses on ocular therapeutics, systemic disease, and optometric technology.

PER® (Physician’s Education Resource): Optometry CE/CME Library
Format: Virtual (on-demand)
Topics: COPE-accredited lectures and multimedia content on glaucoma, retina, and ocular surface disease.
gotoper.com

The post Last Call for CE Hours: In-Person and On-Demand Events To Close Out 2025 appeared first on Optometry 411.

The original LUMIFY, introduced in 2018, gained popularity for its rapid and selective action on eye redness without many of the side effects seen with older formulations. 

“Consumers often say how amazed they are at the difference our original LUMIFY makes to their eyes, with over 50,000 five-star reviews as proof,” said John Ferris, president, Consumer, Bausch + Lomb. “LUMIFY Preservative Free brings that same fast-acting formula to those with sensitive eyes — delivering a visibly brighter, whiter look in just 60 seconds.”

ODs may find this product particularly useful for patients who experience irritation from preservatives but still seek redness relief.

“LUMIFY delivers consistently proven results for patients experiencing eye redness,” said Melissa Toyos, MD, and partner, Toyos Clinic, Nashville, TN. “With LUMIFY Preservative Free, my patients with eye sensitivities now have an option that’s just as effective as the original LUMIFY redness reliever eye drops.”

The new product is now available in single-use vials at major U.S. retailers including Walmart, Target, CVS, Walgreens, Rite Aid, and Amazon. The manufacturer’s suggested retail price is $26.99, and the packaging has been updated to reflect the brand’s premium image.

For more information on the LUMIFY brand visit www.lumifyeyes.com.

The post Bausch + Lomb Launches Lumify Preservative Free Redness Reliever Eye Drops in the US appeared first on Optometry 411.

EDGEPro, HIPAA-compliant practice analytics software for the eyecare industry, is designed to help maximize revenue and streamline operations, according to the announcement.

“Doctors shouldn’t have to choose between patient care and business performance,” said Ed Buffington, CEO at GPN Technologies. “Our partnership with Eyecare Republic brings EDGEPro’s smart analytics to more practices, empowering providers to make faster, more confident business decisions—without taking time away from what matters most.”

For more information about membership with ECR and its new partners, please visit https://eyecarerepublic.com/plans/membership-types/ or contact Rita Shallin (rshallin@eyecarerepublic.com) for membership questions or Dr. Justin Weigel (jweigel@eyecarerepublic.com), or call 855-859-8792.

About Eyecare Republic

Eyecare Republic is a nationwide community of independent optometrists focused on improving patient care through collaboration, innovation, and shared resources. Members benefit from collective bargaining, business solutions, and continuous education, helping them to grow and enhance their practices.

The post Eyecare Republic Adds EDGEPro by GPN Technologies to Its Vendor Network appeared first on Optometry 411.

“We’re excited to partner with Eyecare Republic as a top-tier optical lab vendor,” said Chad Moder, Vice President of Sales at Fait Optics. “As a family-owned and OD-owned business, we’re committed to delivering an extensive range of exceptional products and personalized support. This partnership allows us to work closely with our shared customers — helping them grow their practices and consistently deliver quality care to their patients.”

In an industry that’s constantly evolving, with shifts in technology, patient care, and business practices, Eyecare Republic is committed to providing its members with the tools and support they need to stay ahead. By offering valuable business resources and a collaborative network of peers, ECR enables optometrists to adapt to these changes while delivering exceptional care. The addition of Fait Optics further strengthens ECR’s role as a leading community focused on innovation and excellence in optometry.

For more information about membership with ECR and its new partners, please visit https://eyecarerepublic.com/plans/membership-types/ or contact Rita Shallin (rshallin@eyecarerepublic.com) for membership questions or Dr. Justin Weigel (jweigel@eyecarerepublic.com) or call 855-859-8792.

About Eyecare Republic (ECR)

Eyecare Republic is a nationwide community of independent optometrists focused on improving patient care through collaboration, innovation, and shared resources. Members benefit from collective bargaining, business solutions, and continuous education, helping them to grow and enhance their practices.

About Fait Optics — U.S. headquarters in Burlington, WI

When you choose Fait Optics, you’re choosing a company dedicated to providing the highest quality on every order. Our full-service, digital optical lab is equipped to handle your practice’s needs. We are OD-owned and family-operated, so every decision is made with doctors like you in mind. Your needs will always be our top priority.

The post Eyecare Republic Expands Network With Fait Optics Partnership To Enhance Optometry Nationwide appeared first on Optometry 411.

Her time at IDOC focused on business development by providing exceptional member experience and showcasing the right vendor partners and services to help her member’s practices thrive. She was a top sales leader and coach. She has supported hundreds of eyecare practice owners as their trusted advisor earning her the respect of her doctors and peers. Her guidance in helping eyecare professionals reach their practice goals by better understanding their practice needs is unmatched. 

If you are interested in learning more about Eyecare Republic and our vision, please reach out to info@eyecarerepublic.com.

Eyecare Republic is shaping the future of eyecare by uniting forward-thinking doctors in a dynamic alliance. This isn’t just a network — it’s a movement to advance patient care, strengthen practices, and empower the next generation of leaders in optometry. By fostering collaboration and innovation, we’re creating a brighter future for eyecare professionals and the communities they serve. Join us as we build an alliance that transforms challenges into opportunities and drives success across the industry.

Learn more at eyecarerepublic.com.

The post Eyecare Republic Welcomes Rita Shallin as Director of Business Development  appeared first on Optometry 411.

Janice brings a wealth of expertise from her previous roles at leading organizations including IDOC, Bausch + Lomb Vision Care and Johnson & Johnson Vision. Additionally, her background in consumer-packaged goods at Frito-Lay and Nestlé adds a unique perspective. Her time spent in London enhanced her optical knowledge while she focused on improving Sales Force Effectiveness across European, Middle Eastern, and African (EMEA) markets. Her diverse leadership experience in developing and managing high-performing teams in areas such as sales, sales management, strategic partnerships, marketing, industry events, and professional affairs make her exceptionally qualified to support eyecare professionals and their patients.

Many within the eyecare community may already know and have worked alongside Janice, and she looks forward to the opportunity to reconnect. If you are interested in learning more about Eyecare Republic and our vision, please reach out to info@eyecarerepublic.com.

Eyecare Republic is shaping the future of eyecare by uniting forward-thinking doctors in a dynamic alliance. This isn’t just a network — it’s a movement to advance patient care, strengthen practices, and empower the next generation of leaders in optometry. By fostering collaboration and innovation, we’re creating a brighter future for eyecare professionals and the communities they serve. Join us as we build an alliance that transforms challenges into opportunities and drives success across the industry.

Learn more at eyecarerepublic.com.

The post Eyecare Republic Appoints Janice Dody as President and Chief Operations Officer appeared first on Optometry 411.

The expansion underscores ECR’s dedication to providing networking opportunities, professional growth, and access to state-of-the-art resources for its members. 

“We hope that ODs will begin to see their accounting effort as a source of business growth opportunities,” said Michael Pote, Partner, at Ratio Accounting, Inc. “Tax management is a given. Business growth requires deep knowledge of the optometric practice and that is what we are bringing to the equation.”  

ECR will be announcing additional partnerships soon.

In today’s fast-paced world, where technology, patient needs, and business practices are constantly evolving, Eyecare Republic supports independent optometrists in staying ahead of the curve. By providing access to vital business resources, ongoing education, and a strong network of peers, ECR makes it easier for members to adapt and continue delivering exceptional care. For more information about membership with ECR and its new partners, please visit https://eyecarerepublic.com or contact Dr. Justin Weigel (jweigel@eyecarerepublic.com) for membership questions or Aaron Allen (aallen@eyecarerepublic.com or 855-859-8792). 

About Eyecare Republic (ECR) 

Eyecare Republic is a nationwide community of independent optometrists focused on improving patient care through collaboration, innovation, and shared resources. Members benefit from collective bargaining, business solutions, and continuous education, helping them to grow and enhance their practices. 

About the New Partner 

Ratio Accounting — U.S. headquarters in San Francisco, CA 

Ratio Accounting specializes in providing tailored financial solutions to optometry practices. With a focus on translating financial data into actionable insights, Ratio Accounting helps members with cash flow forecasting, financial reporting, and tax preparation. Their technology-driven approach, using real-time data access through QuickBooks Online, ensures that ECR members receive up-to-date information for sound business decisions. Ratio Accounting’s consultancy services guide practices through strategic planning, helping them maximize growth and profitability. 

For more information, visit www.ratioaccounting.com. 

The post Eyecare Republic Expands Its Reach: New Partnership Powers Up Optometry Support  appeared first on Optometry 411.

“We’re dedicated to providing eye care professionals with cutting-edge contact lens technologies that cater to their patients’ needs,” said Dinesh Guglani, vice president and general manager, North America Vision Care, Bausch + Lomb. “As Eyecare Republic’s elite contact lens partner, we’re excited to support the 20,000 independent practices nationwide with innovative products and business solutions.”

“Fait Distribution is excited to partner with EyeCare Republic as an elite level contact lens distributor.”, said Chad Moder, Vice President of Sales, Fait Distribution. “We are passionate about working alongside our customers to help them achieve their business and financial goals, while providing exemplary service to their offices.”

Michael Feldman, President & CEO of I-Deal Optics, echoed this sentiment: “We are thrilled to partner with Eyecare Republic and are confident that our margin-building product lines and attentive service will bring great value to members. For over 27 years, we have been committed to supporting independent eye care professionals, and this partnership aligns perfectly with our mission of enhancing revenue and driving growth.”

In a rapidly evolving industry where technology, patient care needs, and business practices are constantly changing, Eyecare Republic aims to equip its members with the tools and support necessary to stay ahead. By offering access to business resources, continuing education, and a collaborative peer network, ECR empowers optometrists to navigate these shifts while continuing to provide top-quality care. The addition of these new partners reinforces ECR’s position as a leading community dedicated to innovation and excellence in optometry.

For more information about membership with ECR and its new partners, please visit https://eyecarerepublic.com, or contact Dr. Justin Weigel (jweigel@eyecarerepublic.com) for membership questions or Aaron Allen (aallen@eyecarerepublic.com or 855-859-8792.

About Eyecare Republic (ECR)

Eyecare Republic is a nationwide community of independent optometrists focused on improving patient care through collaboration, innovation, and shared resources. Members benefit from collective bargaining, business solutions, and continuous education, helping them to grow and enhance their practices.

About New Partners

Bausch + Lomb — U.S. headquarters in Bridgewater, N.J.

Bausch + Lomb is dedicated to protecting and enhancing the gift of sight for millions of people around the world — from birth through every phase of life. Its comprehensive portfolio of approximately 400 products includes contact lenses, lens care products, eye care products, ophthalmic pharmaceuticals, over-the-counter products, and ophthalmic surgical devices and instruments. Founded in 1853, Bausch + Lomb has a significant global research and development, manufacturing, and commercial footprint with approximately 13,000 employees and a presence in nearly 100 countries.

As an elite ECR partner in the United States, Bausch + Lomb’s contact lens brands, including Bausch + Lomb INFUSE®, Bausch + Lomb ULTRA® and Biotrue® ONEday, will be available to ECR members with unique pricing discounts and rebate programs. Members will also receive promotional pricing on certain Bausch + Lomb over-the-counter products. For more information,
visit www.bausch.com.

Fait — U.S. headquarters in Burlington, WI

Fait Distribution is passionate about providing the best service to its customers. Known for its responsive and intimate service, Fait is driven to help optometry businesses run more effectively by delivering high-quality contact lens solutions.

I-Deal Optics — U.S. headquarters in Troy, MI

Since 1996, I-Deal Optics has specialized in identifying market needs and offering profitable solutions to independent optometrists and eyewear chains alike. The company is committed to providing quality products, competitive pricing, and unmatched service to its customers.

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