 San Diego County Optometric Society |
The San Diego ViewAugust 2019 |
Inside this Issue:
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President’s Message
August 2019 |
Robert Grazian, O.D.
Did you know that August is National Eye Exam Month? It only makes sense that eye exams are spotlighted when students everywhere return to school at the end of summer—along with some new clothes, shoes, and school supplies, students can have their eyes examined to make ready for good vision during the academic year. As optometrists, we know only too well that a student’s learning is closely tied with how well they see. Learning runs tandem with clear, comfortable vision, as upwards of 80% of what students learn comes in through their eyes.
Many parents incorrectly assume that when their child has a school screening or pediatrician screening, their child has had an eye exam. Many also assume that when their child passes one of those screenings, there is no vision problem. They are not aware that a child who can see 20/20 can still have difficulty with their vision. While the most common vision problem is myopia, we know there are many more potential problems such as binocular and accommodative deficiencies.
As optometrists, we want to be sure parents know that only a full, comprehensive eye exam can provide the battery of tests needed to diagnose their child’s full visual system. A comprehensive optometric eye examination this month can help give them their best chance to excel in school and enhance their lifelong eye health and functional vision. Be sure to keep this top of mind this month as you start having these important back-to-school conversations with parents!
On another note, just past the halfway point of the year, I want to take a moment for shout outs thanking our SDCOS board members who have been very active the first half of 2019, serving our membership and the public by providing excellence in community service, education, and leadership. SDCOS has a long tradition of being a real gem among the California Optometric Association’s best societies. Our Board members have so much creative energy, and they lead the way to the highest value of membership. Thanks to professional affairs committee chair Dr. Amanda Dexter, our Board has already produced five amazing CE meetings just in this first half of the year, providing sixteen hours of high-quality continuing education, complete with food service. And with our invaluable administrative director Nancy-Jo Sinkiewicz at the helm, we have four more CE events scheduled for the remainder of the year.
Community service has long been a cornerstone of our Society, and this year Dr. Robert Meisel and Dr. Simona Grosu have been steadfast in leading the way for our Society to provide free vision care to so many needy San Diegans. Their successful, much-needed initiatives have included Monarch School exams, VSP mobile clinic, and the recent Veterans Stand Down event in San Diego. Also, we are fortunate to have the vision and leadership of Dr. David Wong this year as LOVC committee chair and he has been active promoting the clinic on Upas Street. Our Society is growing in numbers through the ingenuity of membership committee chairs Dr. David Ardakani and Dr. Jenn Chinn, while our award-winning website and fantastic monthly newsletter is made possible through the hard work and creativity of Dr. Lucia Millet, Dr. Nicolet Boermans, and Dr. Stephanie Le. Our OD relations committee is led by Dr. John Fitzpatrick, and along with trustee emeritus Dr. Byron Newman and Dr. Andrew Fasciani volunteering as health care delivery system liaison, the Board adds more valuable service benefits to our membership.
Our society’s Platinum and Sustaining Sponsors make up the best ophthalmic companies in business anywhere, and their support and enthusiasm are continually evident while Dr. David Sherman leads the way to organize them as our vendor liaison, always ensuring our members have access to our sponsor’s latest products, ophthalmic instruments, and industry innovations. Our Society has helped COA pass statutes to increase our scope of practice with the leadership of Dr. Richard Skay and his experience with government affairs. I am fortunate to work with a talented executive board that leads the Society business operations: Secretary Dr. Alex Scovill, Treasurer Dr. Wendy Gross, President-elect Dr. Michelle Biaggi, and Past-President Michael Morgan are the players in the SDCOS business orchestra. Last but not least, we welcome our new 2019 Trustees who learn our Society operations under the leadership of Dr. Marcelline Ciuffreda, Dr. Anita Koo, and Dr. Kathryn Ordonez.
Please note that August 4th is our next event, so be sure to sign up for SDCOS’s annual Golf Tournament—funds will be donated to LOVC. Our thanks to Society committee chair Dr. Paul Lavin for organizing this event.
Finally, San Diego County Optometric Society is always looking for member ODs to volunteer for the Board to make our Society a vital organization for our membership and public. If you are interested in contributing to the success of SDCOS, please send me an email.
I look forward to a fantastic remainder of the year!
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Retina Corner
Clinical Trials |
By Nikolas J.S. London, MD FACS
Director of Clinical Research, Retina Consultants San Diego
Chief of Ophthalmology, Scripps Memorial Hospital La Jolla
Dear Colleagues,
Here at RCSD we pride ourselves on participating in cutting-edge research. These can be wonderful opportunities for patients, with access to the next generation of treatment options, and in some cases options for diseases that are currently untreatable.
For those that qualify, clinical trial can be very beneficial. In addition to potentially receiving a medication that is more effective, there are no out-of-pocket costs for patients, insurance is not involved so we can see essentially any eligible patient, transportation is typically covered, making it easier on the patient and family members, patients often receive a $75 to $100 per visit stipend, and patients get the opportunity to contribute to science and future treatment options in a very meaningful way.
On the following page is a table that summarizes our currently-enrolling clinical trials as of August, 2019 and following that is a more descriptive summary of these studies.
Feel free to email me and/or our research coordinator, Carmalee Estell, regarding any potential candidates. My email is nik.london@gmail.com and Carmalee can be reached at carmalee.rcsdresearch@gmail.com. You can also text me on my cell phone at 415-341-5456 or reach Carmalee at the office at 858-451-1911.
Click here for a more in depth summary of all studies
Thanks again for reading. Please don’t hesitate to contact me with any questions.
Best wishes, and until next time,
Nik
Nikolas London, MD
Retina Consultants San Diego, Poway, La Jolla, and Coronado
www.retinaconsultantssd.com
858-451-1911 (office)
415-341-5456 (cell)
nik.london@gmail.com (personal email)
retinaconsultantssd@gmail.com (RCSD email)
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Eye See written by Dr. Byron Y. Newman A DEADLY IGNORANCE |
First a short quiz: Which of the following kills the most Americans in one year?
A. Traffic Accidents
B. The AIDS Virus
C. Breast Cancer
D. Deep Vein Thrombosis
The Answer: Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) It kills up to 300,000 Americans each year, more than traffic fatalities, AIDS, and Breast Cancer combined.
It could be the deadliest condition you’ve never heard of, according to an article in the San Diego Union Tribune a few years ago.
DVT is a blood clot that forms in the legs and can move through the body. If it lodges in a pulmonary artery, it can kill you quickly.
RISK FACTORS: one doctor described the risk factors as “global.” This means that all of us, at some point, face some risk.
Here is a list of the risk factors as reported:
- Major Surgery
- Cancer and some heart or respiratory disease
- Advanced Age
- A prior clot
- Family history of blood clots
- Condition that restricts mobility
- Obesity
- Hospitalization
- Pregnancy
- Use of birth control pills or hormone replacement therapy
- Trauma, such as a blow to the leg
- Restricted mobility in travel
SYMPTOMS: Sometimes there are no symptoms. But, the symptoms may include the following.
- Tenderness or swelling in the leg
- Shortness of breath
- Sweating
- Rapid Pulse
- Dizziness
- Coughing up blood
- Chest pain
Drs at Emory University School of Medicine in Atlanta concurred with these symptoms.
The most important aspect of this discussion is prevention. According to Dr. Sandy Benjamin, at Carolinas Medical Center-Mercy, it is one of the most preventable causes of death in the hospital.
PREVENTION:
- Avoid dehydration
- Avoid sitting for more than 4 hours without exercise
- Talk to your doctor if a family member has had DVT.
- Be aware of the risk factors
Car trips and airplane flights greater than 4 hours also raise the risk of clots
A spokesperson from the Coalition to Prevent DVT gives the following message to raise awareness: “If you fall into risk categories and you have leg pain, there’s every reason in the world to seek help from a physician.”
Check out Dr. Newman’s website, www.thehumorfactory.com!!!
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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! |
Featured Annual Sponsors
Event Sponsors
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August 11, 2019, 5-HOUR CE – Ocular surface disease/Contact lens and Glaucoma
SPEAKERS: Dr. Pinakin Davey – Dr. Frank Spors
Click Here for Course Handouts
All 2019 CE meetings are located at the Handlery Hotel, 950 Hotel Circle North, San Diego, 92108.
2 Hour CE
- SDCOS Members: Free if reserved 4 days in advance*
- COA/AOA Members: $35
- Non-members: $130
- Registration 6:00 pm, lecture at 7 pm. Dinner included.
5 Hour CE
- SDCOS Members: $90 if reserved 4 days in advance*
- COA/AOA Members: $90*
- Non-members: $325
- Registration 7:00 am, lecture at 8 am. Breakfast included.
*Late registration and no-shows will result in an additional fee of $35 to cover the cost of food.*
Members need to make sure they sign out at the end of all CE meetings. Even though they receive a letter of Validation and COA is notified, if audited, the sign in and out sheet is the document that will be considered.
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Classifieds |
Optical Equipment & Furniture for sale/ All in great condition-: Marco TRS system-49K new Now $4700 AO Ultramic Phoropter new $3500 Now 1K-Canon Retinal Camera & Pwr Table New $30,000 now $3500 Reichert NCT new 10K now $750 -Refracting Desk-Solid Wood EyeGlass Displays-Dispensing Tables & More. PRICED TO SELL. Email for pricing. Officialseaside@gmail.com (08/19)
LVC Administrative Assistant/Medical Billing Specialist position available at The San Diego Center for the Blind and its Low Vision Clinic (LVC) The LVC administrative assistant and medical billing specialist will serve as the first impression for our low vision clinic. They will be responsible for patient care management including but not limited to the tasks of scheduling and medical billing. All interested applicants should request a copy of the job announcement and job description at employment@sdcb.org (07/19)
Practice for sale: North County Carlsbad “Upscale” Practice established in 1982. Great opportunity to buy a practice in a well-desired location with great visibility and walk-in traffic. Only two miles to the ocean! The owner is interested in an immediate sale or will consider a buy-in or possibly merge with another practice. I am looking to retire but will consider a part-time position to make the transition easier. Center is well-established with Vons market and Movie theatres as anchors. Don’t miss this opportunity to own your dream practice! Email: bluesdoch@yahoo.com or call 760-310-8492
Optometry Practice for sale: in an upscale shopping center in Escondido, San Diego County. California. Solo Private Practice established since 1996. Please email basantis2004@yahoo.com for details/questions. Has a large patient base. Equipment is in excellent condition. A full scope Optometry Practice. Complete Sale or buy out option.
Part-Time Associate Optometrist Position Available: Urban Optiks Optometry is seeking an awesome OD to join our beautiful high-end boutique practice 2-3 days per week. This is a great opportunity for an associate doctor to eventually acquire a full-time partnership in our practice. For a chance to join our exciting team, please send resume & cover letter, including why you think you’d be a great fit to kristy@uoosd.com
Optometric Practice for Sale East County in the city of El Cajon 40+ years Optometry Practice for sale By Dr. Robert L. Evans and Dr. Marilyn A. Carter. Many long-time, loyal patients and excellent staff. Please call Dr. Evans at 619-444-9012 (El Cajon) Or 619-422-5361 (Chula Vista) Or 619-479-5070 (Home) (09/19)
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 |
ALL DOCTORS WILL RECEIVE A FREE 5 HOUR CE FOR EVERY SHIFT FOR WHICH THEY VOLUNTEER
Monarch School Screening
- Monarch School Screening, Monday September 30, 2019, 8:00am-3:00pm
- Monarch School Exams, Tuesday October 15 and Wed. October 16, 2019, 8:00am-3:00pm
Contact Dr. Bob Meisel for more information at rmeisel@netscape.net ; www.monarchschools.org
Lion’s Optometric Vision Clinic
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 |
Vision Mission Trip to Vietnam
Dr. Jack Anthony, former SDCOS President, and longtime member now living in Newport Beach joined Dr. Bob Meisel for a recent Lions In Sight vision mission in Vietnam.
They were members of a large team, mostly from California who joined with the Loving Eyes organization for two, two-day of clinics in two small towns an hour outside of Nha Trang.
Seven other ODs and 24 technicians were aided by several volunteer translators from Nha Trang, located on the South China Sea.
During the four clinic days in mid-March, over 4100 people were examined by the ODs and 262 cataract surgeries were performed by local Vietnamese ophthalmologists.
A Vietnamese optician was also on site to perform trial frame exams for persons with large amounts of astigmatism.
Several thousands of pairs of glasses were available and everyone who needed an Rx was provided with prescription eyewear.
It was a fulfilling time as patients from ages 2 to 97 came to receive vision evaluations and medical assistance at the clinics
Vietnam was a place that was so unpopular, many people hating the citizens of a country so far away, yet so close with nightly news updates on the war in the 1960s and ’70s
It was very cathartic for both Jack and me, even though we were not stationed there during our long military careers.
The Vietnamese were so thankful and loving to everyone on the clinic team, it gave closure to us in an unusual manner
The post clinic trip provided an opportunity to experience some amazing and unusual areas within Vietnam.
A small group of seven traveled together, with others opting to explore other portions of SE Asia.
Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi are both very large cities with literal millions of motorbikes, but Hanoi had a different and very enjoyable nightlife
Da Nang, with the world’s longest non-stop cable car in near-by Ba Na Hills, and Hue were very interesting from military and historical perspectives
Hoi An was a delightful surprise with a Disneyland-like appearance in the pedestrian-only area of the city, with quaint shops, restaurants, and lanterns adorning the streets
Ha Long Bay was an area I really wanted to see with its sandstone islands and tropical vegetation
It was a very satisfying trip with both a humanitarian and a tourism perspective for both Jack and me
If you ever want to join me on a Lions In Sight trip (www.lionsinsight.net), contact me and I’ll show you how!
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Pedestrian area in Hoi An during post clinic touring |
Relaxing on South China Sea beach after a long day |
Famous Golden Hand Bridge in Ba Na Hills, outside of Da Nang |
32nd Annual ‘Stand Down’
The Veterans Village of San Diego hosted the 32nd Annual Veterans Stand Down from June 28th through the 30th at the San Diego High School Athletic Field. The annual event is designed to connect Veterans with VA and community partner services, with a focus on homeless Veterans. Veterans Village of San Diego has hosted the stand down for more than three decades and each year the event has expanded support for Veterans.
The venue provided familiarity to homeless Veterans, replicating the military environment which many of them served in, and a safe space for fellowship with other Veterans experiencing the same concerns. 650 veterans and dependents received supplies and care thanks to the Stand Down program.
The Stand Down has a rich history, tracing its roots back to 1988 when it was founded by soldier-turned-Psychologist, Dr. John Nachison, as an emergency response to Vietnam Veteran homelessness. The inaugural event marked the first stand down to support Veterans and became the catalyst for Veteran stand downs across the nation.
More than 100 organizations across San Diego County and over 3,000 volunteers, including military personnel from local bases, volunteered assisted with providing services to set up, support, and break down the huge tent city erected to provide a safe space for Veterans during the 3-day event.
In part the 2019 ‘Stand Down’ Vision Clinic was able to deliver services worth over $115,000 to military veterans and their families. 206 patients in total received vision services, 191 eye exams and 345 pairs of glasses delivered to patients that day.
Special recognition to Optovue and Andy Millsom, long time SDCOS Annual Sponsor with the Society volunteered equipment and his time to those in need, Along with Andy a team of optometrists provided their time, energy and skills in the service of others. Dr. Robert Meisel, Dr. Robert Grazian, Dr. Steve Luskin and Dr. Andreea Nastasoiu were a vital spoke in that wheel! Thank you!
LOVC Open House
On Sunday, June 2nd, 2019, the Lions Optometric Vision Clinic held an open house to introduce prospective doctors to the clinic and thank current volunteers. There was a tour of the clinic, live music and raffle prizes. The open house raised ~$200 to support the clinic, thank you to everyone who participated! If you have any questions about the clinic or are interested in volunteering, please call us (619-298-5273), email us (lionsvisionclinic@gmail.com) or visit our website (lionsvisionclinic.org). We also have several fundraisers coming up, including the SDCOS golf tournament and at restaurants such as BJ’s Pizza and Blaze Pizza; see our website for the more details.
- Click here for most recent SDCOS Board Meeting Minutes
- Click here for the 2019 CE schedule!
- Click here for COA membership benefits!
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Welcome, new members!! |
- Jocelyn Tan
Please update your information on www.eyehelp.org
Contact Us
Phone: 619 663 8439
Fax: 800 643 8301
Email: sdcos@sdcos.org
Platinum Sponsors
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Sustaining Sponsors
