 San Diego County Optometric Society |
The San Diego ViewMay 2018 |
Inside this Issue:
- President’s Message
- Retina Corner
- Tech Corner
- Eye See
- The McGee Group have you covered for the season ahead
- Unique Contact Lens Design Can Help Nail Distance
- CE Corner
- Classifieds
- Volunteer Corner
- SDCOS Announcements
- Upcoming Events
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President’s Message
May 2018 |
Healthcare providers possess a powerful skill set and the ability to help every single person that sits in our chair. As we navigate through the challenges of practice management, heavy workloads, and the rigors of clinical care we must not forget the foundation of our profession. Deep down, we all chose this profession to help and care for people. As Optometrists, we heal the eyes and are able provide the gift of clear vision. To the average patient this may or may not be as significant as we hope, but to a person without access to quality healthcare, this can be life changing. A simple pair of glasses could give someone additional independence, quality of life, gives back their favorite hobby or the ability to maintain employment.
The Lions Optometric Vision Clinic (LOVC) is our local charity which provides comprehensive examinations and affordable glasses to patient populations who would otherwise be unable to get quality eye care. LOVC provides all the scheduling, staff support and necessary equipment to provide these examinations but they rely on the support of community doctors willing to donate their time and expertise. The San Diego County Optometric Society stands behind the LOVC and their mission and will offer valuable benefits to doctors who donate their time.
SDCOS provides to those doctors who are able and willing to volunteer for a shift at the LOVC the following benefits:
- Members who volunteer will receive a free 5-hour CE registration
- Non-members who volunteer will receive a $70 discount off registration for any CE event
- SDCOS will extend this discount up to twice per year per doctor
Typical volunteer scheduling is a half day, from 9am-1pm. This allows plenty of time for the volunteering doctor to also see a half days’ worth of patients in their normal clinical setting and not miss a full day of work. LOVC is also very accommodating with doctors who want to work at different times or at different paces to make the experience as comfortable as possible. I would again like to encourage all our members to help meet the needs of our community and to do their part in providing eye examinations to people in San Diego who could not otherwise afford to have one. The waiting list for patients is unfortunately months long. If members could find the time in our schedules to give back just one day a year, it would be a tremendous impact for the community and the patients that desperately need our help.
Please contact the Lions Optometric Vision Clinic directly, Dr. Erin Swift (SDCOS Liaison to LOVC), or any SDCOS Board member for more information.
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Retina Corner
Stay tuned for next month! |
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Tech Corner
Got Tech questions? We’ve got Answers! |
THE INSECURITY OF EMAIL
By Dave Tuckman from Golden State Web Solutions, Inc. (www.GSWS.com)
There has been conversation in the security industry for years on whether or not email is secure. The answer is NO, it is not. It never was. Picture an open highway; no one knows when to stop, yield, turn, etc. until traffic lights and instructional signs are added. Email is similar, as its framework never had security baked into its architecture. Steps have been made to make it more secure (think encryption, private servers, etc.) but it’s always been an insecure platform.
Now that Cybersecurity is starting to be taken seriously, this is important to know when it comes to how we can securely share private information. In this article we take a closer look at things to consider when using email, both in the workplace as well as in our personal lives.
- CONTROL WHAT YOU SHARE
Email isn’t a bad thing, it’s just not private. If we limit what we share via email, we can control the risk we face. Think twice about what you are emailing, and understand the consequences of it getting into the wrong hands.
- THE RISK OF LOSING FILES
Have you ever received (or sent) an email that went to the wrong intended recipient? It usually follows up with the ‘hey, just want to make sure this gets to the right party’, ‘sent to the wrong Dave’ or something along those lines.
Imagine that happening with private information (i.e. financial, personal or medical information). Not only is private information now in the hands of the wrong individual, we have no control what they decide to do with it.
In the business world, the sender can be held liable if damages occur.
- FREE EMAIL SERVICES: IF YOU AREN’T THE CUSTOMER, YOU ARE THE PRODUCT
This quote is attributed to Tim O’Reilly circa 2010. His point being, if you are using a service/product for free of charge, that service/product is actually using you. It’s true, because at the end of the day someone is going to have to pay the bills. While the rule itself is universal, we’ll apply it here specifically regarding email service.
Major (free) email service providers read your emails in support of their targeted advertising efforts. Oath (parent company of Yahoo and AOL) recently updated their Terms & Conditions, expanding its right to scan and read your emails. Here’s an article: https://gizmodo.com/psa-to-yahoo-and-aol-users-your-emails-can-be-scanned-1825277207
This is not a good platform on which to share private information. Imagine something confidential being repurposed for advertising efforts?
Guess who is liable if an incident occurs and there are damages?
WHAT SHOULD I DO?
Rather than email, we recommend using a file sharing service. Rather than sending an actual copy of the file(s) to someone, you send access. This controls how many copies of a file are released (and to whom). Data can be additionally secured by implementing additional features (i.e. password protection, limit the date and number of times accessible, etc.).
There are a variety of file sharing services available (think Apple iCloud, Autotask Workplace, Dropbox, Google Drive, etc.). Each has its own level of security and compliance, so it is important to know your requirements to ensure you select the proper solution.
We use and recommend Autotask Workplace (AWP – https://gsws.com/hosting/autotask-workplace) internally and for clients. AWP meets all regulation security and privacy requirements plus additionally archives data 180 days. This means if you get hit with Ransomware, we can recover all your data with a copy from before the attack.
When it comes to what we are liable for, this is the best position one can put themselves in. This is one way we support our clients, and we want you to be as secure as possible.
What are your thoughts?
Reach out. You can reach Dave directly at (619-905-4468) or email dave@GSWS.com.
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Eye See written by Dr. Byron Y. Newman THE QUALITY OF LIFE AND HEALTH QUESTIONNAIRE |
Optometrists work to improve the quality of life for our patients. An assessment of this as it stands for a new patient is important, and I ran across the following, which I have used and recommend that you do too. You can modify it, if you wish, to suit your own ideas, Print them out and use, as you see fit.
Instructions: Please check the box next to the words (x) that best describe how you have been feeling over the past week.
PHYSICAL SUFFERING: Headaches, chest or back pain, arthritis, nausea or vomiting, shortness of breath, dizziness, itching, etc.
NONE ( ) Physical suffering is rarely or never a problem
MILD ( ) Somewhat bothersome, but goes away by itself
MODERATE ( ) More troubling problem with suffering
SEVERE ( ) Extremely disturbing problem with suffering
EMOTIONS/OUTLOOK ON LIFE: Feeling happy or sad, peaceful or nervous, and how much you look forward to getting up in the morning. How much of a problem?
NONE ( ) Emotions and outlook on life are rarely or never a problem
MILD ( ) Somewhat bothersome problem feeling downhearted & blue
MODERATE ( ) More troubling problem with feeling depressed or nervous
SEVERE ( ) Extremely disturbing problem with feeling depressed or nervous
DAILY ACTIVITIES: Working or favorite pastimes, doing things with friends and family, and basic self care activities- such as bathing, getting dressed, eating and going to the bathroom. How much of a problem:
NONE ( ) Daily activities are rarely or never a problem
MILD ( ) Somewhat bothersome problem with being limited in activities
MODERATE ( ) More troubling with having to reduce activities
SEVERE ( ) Extremely disturbing problem with having to reduce
In a number between 1 and 10 with 10 being the best possible quality of life, write your estimate of your quality of life.
Check out Dr. Newman’s website, www.thehumorfactory.com!!!
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The McGee Group have you covered for the season ahead |
The McGee Group have you covered for the season ahead with Badgley Mischka’s elegant runway inspired eyewear, and Life is Good Eyewear that is framed in optimism and a positive spirit!
Mark Badgley and James Mischka have been hailed by Vogue as one of the “Top 10 American Designers” and as the darlings of Hollywood stars. The design duo has made their mark over the past two decades with glamorous, stylish and wearable evening wear and accessories. Badgley Mischka is a true Lifestyle brand that offers elegant style that caters to a young, modern, couture customer, without forsaking women of any age. The McGee Group is excited to translate the glamour of Hollywood award nights into fashionable eyewear and sun wear, with the highest quality products and design elements. The collection features eyewear for both men and women with an appreciation for luxury and fine details at an accessible price point.
Life is Good and The McGee Group have partnered to help people to focus on the good through a whole new lens. The collection features styles available for men, women, teens and kids, all inspired by inspirational people, places, and works of art. “The Life Is Good eyewear collection with the McGee group as a way to spread the power of optimism to even more customers” said John Jacobs, co-founder of Life Is Good. “Through the stories behind the product, we hope to inspire customers to focus on the good and embrace the world with arms wide open.” The eyewear collection features modern and comfortable frames for the entire family in a variety of acetates and eye catching colors. Each optical frame style is named after a “hero of optimism” whose story is an everyday reminder to focus on the good. “Life is Good Eyewear is a perfect fit for the McGee Group as we were drawn to the brand because of the similarities in our stories. Both the McGee Group and Life is Good are American, family owned companies, with a desire to spread the message of positivity and optimism,” said Wayne McGee, founder and CEO of the McGee Group. “Life is Good is highly committed to helping children in need, with 10% of all net sales funding the Life is Good Kids Foundation. While life is not always perfect or easy, life IS always good. “
The McGee Group always supports the independent doctor, and with a no hassle return policy there is no better one-stop-shop for all of your frame needs. For more information on brands carried by the McGee Group please contact Danielle Lundquist at good2bhappy@verizon.net
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Unique Contact Lens Design Can Help Nail Distance |
Let’s call a spade a spade: Fitting presbyopes has never been easy, especially when these patients are young, emerging presbyopes who aren’t used to visual struggle and have never been faced with the need to neuroadapt. The challenge is further multiplied when these same patients have astigmatism, since this usually reduces the options at our disposal.
Despite these hurdles, we continue to try to make every presbyope happy. Over the years, many different contact lenses in a variety of materials and designs have helped us satisfy a growing number of patients—yet we’re still commonly faced with patients who are grossly underwhelmed with the distance vision we’ve been able to give them in a presbyopic lens.
Fortunately, we now have another lens for our toolkit —but it’s one that’s different in a practical and meaningful way – one where the distance zone can be adjusted to match the individual patient’s pupil size. New Duette Progressive Center Distance features a technology called FlexOpticsTM, offering an adjustable center distance zone size to address variations in pupil diameter, as well as a wide range of add powers. Duette Progressive is now available in both Center Distance and Center Near designs, allowing for greater vision correction customization.
Why Center Distance?
If you strip away distance clarity in an emerging presbyope, you probably won’t get rave reviews. The new presbyope’s familiarity with crisp distance is almost always non-negotiable. This has led to the popularity of the Center Distance lens design.
Center Distance lenses limit the amount of disruption to distance vision by having the portion of the lens over the visual axis containing the distance Rx blending into the bifocal power toward the periphery.1
Pupil Sizes Vary. Now the Optic Zone Can Vary Too.
With age, pupils decrease in size and become less reactive.2 Furthermore, there are significant variations in pupil diameter among individuals.2 That’s why it’s so important to offer your patients a personalized lens for their unique eyes.
The Duette Progressive Center Distance design has FlexOpticsTM to provide a customized vision solution: the adjustable center distance zone size ranges from 1.8 – 4.0mm, driven by photopic pupil size, while add powers range from +0.75 to +5.00 D.
Meet the Needs of the Underserved
Choosing a lens with Center Distance optics can provide a distance experience that feels natural to patients who are growing into presbyopia, while a Center Near design may better meet the needs of more advanced presbyopes and other patients with significant near demands. Duette Progressive hybrid lenses are customizable for the continuum of presbyopia, even for those with astigmatism.
From emerging to advanced presbyopia, Duette Progressive hybrid lenses offer uncompromised GP optics with soft skirt comfort.
References
1. Nixon G. Which Multifocal Design Is Best For Your Patients? Contact Lens Spectrum, December 2016.
2. Richdale K. Ocular and Refractive Considerations for the Aging Eye. Contact Lens Spectrum. February 2009.
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CE CornerWe are committed to helping you fulfill your CE requirements through our local meeting with the support of our sponsors! |
SDCOS 2-hour CE May 17-2018
Dr. Marc Bloomenstein
Course Title: Pardon the Objection Practical Applications in Anterior Segment
Description: The Pardon the Objection PTO course series is a rapid-fire format, comprised of fast-paced discussion and lively debate by a panel of respected experts. Tired of long lectures then this unique and innovative presentation style is for you. Sub-topics of the course will be limited to ten minutes. At the end of ten minutes, the discussion will move on to the next topic. This course will feature a wide-range of content covering the most recent updates in anterior segment disease.
See 2018 CE schedule.
Continuing Education Seminars are at the Handlery Hotel 950 Hotel Circle North, San Diego, 92108.
Two-hour seminar, Thursday, 7:00 pm – 9:00 pm. Buffet meal included and served ½ hour prior to lecture.
- SDCOS Members free, COA/AOA Members $35.00, Non-Members $130.00.
Five-hour seminar, Sunday, 8:00 am – 1:30 pm. Buffet meal included and served ½ hour prior to lecture.
- SDCOS Members $90.00. COA/AOA Members, $90.00 Non-Members $325.00.
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Classifieds |
Turn-Key Optometry Office for Lease in City Heights 3560 Fairmount Avenue, Suite A, San Diego, CA 92105. ±1,150 SF: two exam rooms, large office & open break/office area upstairs, great signage. High-end finishes, 2004 construction, home to a successful practice for past 14 years. Email cchristensen@rosanopartners.com or call (858) 633-1817 for more information. (05/18)
Private Optometry Practice for Sale in highly desirable Sorrento Valley area. Steady yearly Revenue with room to improve bottom line. Expand your practice. Current staff willing to stay or bring in your team. Reason for sale is owner retiring after 30+ years. Don’t miss out! Please email at frankmej@gmail.com or call 619-861-3535 for more information. (05/18)
Fill in OD needed multiple days in May (21st-30th). Location is a sublease Target Optical in Santee. Brand new location with great equipment, staff, and hours. Please email drkellykeane@gmail.com with your availability or to find out more information. (05/18)
Dr. John Fitzpatrick, the Society Optometrist Relations Liaison, offers a unique service to the San Diego Optometric community. Several lists are kept on file for doctors seeking the following, or any combination: • full-time work • part-time work • fill-in work • purchase a practice • sell a practice • partner in a practice. There is no charge for this service. To put your name on the list, please contact Dr. John Fitzpatrick at jpfod@aol.com
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Volunteer Corner |
Monarch School Screening
Contact Dr. Bob Meisel for more information at rmeisel@netscape.net ; www.monarchschools.org
Flying Samaritan Optometry Clinic – Tecate, Mexico
The SDSU Flying Samaritans are asking for any optometrists that would be willing to volunteer on Saturdays and accompany other volunteers to their optometry clinic in Tecate, Mexico. It is not necessary to be fluent in Spanish, a translator can be provided. The clinic is located about 40 miles southeast of SDSU. Their goal is to provide free eye exams, glasses, and access to other free medical benefits to the underserved communities of Baja California. Please contact Dr. Bob Meisel if you are interested or have any further questions!
Lion’s Optometric Vision Clinic
ATTENTION LOVC VOLUNTEER DOCTORS
FREE 5-hour CE for SDCOS Members (maximum of 2 CE’s per year)
$70 off for Non-Members choice of 2 or 5 HR CE
VOLUNTEER DOCTORS needed for flexible shifts throughout the year. 9-1:00 pm. Monday -Friday 1805 Upas St San Diego, CA 92103. Can’t volunteer at the clinic? See patients in your office. Call 619-298-5273.
DONATE GLASSES
Please bring to a CE meeting or contact the society office at 619-663-8439 for arrangements to pick up.
SDCOS keeps a list of all doctors willing to speak in front of groups about various topics, do home visits for patients, and assist in student mentoring. ODs interested in the Speakers Bureau, Home Visits, Student mentoring, and Low Vision OD’s, please contact the society office at 619-663-8439 or email sdcos@sdcos.org
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SDCOS Announcements |
SDCOS board members and students volunteered their time to talk with legislators about pressing optometric issues at COA Legislative Day in Sacramento, April 2018
Welcome New Members
- Isabel Val
- Luis Perez-Rivera
- Carole Sachs
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Upcoming Events |
Contact Us
Phone: 619 663 8439
Fax: 800 643 8301
Email: sdcos@sdcos.org
Platinum Sponsors
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Sustaining Sponsors
