Transitions Optical Hosts Panel on “Minority Eye Health Matters”
at 49th Annual National Optometric Association Convention and CE Program
PINELLAS PARK, Fla., July 19, 2017 – On July 13, 2017, Transitions Optical brought together eye health and cultural experts to discuss the unique eye health needs of African American and Hispanic patients during a “Minority Eye Health Matters” panel held at the 49 th annual NationalOptometric Association’s (NOA) Convention and CE Program in Portland, Ore.
Moderated by NOA vice president, Sherrol Reynolds, O.D., FAAO, the panel also featured the expertise of:
Charlotte Parniawski, RN-BC, MSN, CNE
Edwin Marshall, O.D., MS, MPH, Professor Emeritus of Optometry and Former Vice President for Diversity, Equity and Multicultural Affairs, Indiana University
Fayiz Mahgoub, Doctor of Optometry Candidate 2018, Western University College of Optometry
Mila Ferrer, Founder of Familias con Diabetes, Blogger
“Our ambition with this panel was to discuss the high incidence of eye- and systemic-disease among the two largest minority groups in the U.S. and address any challenges that may prevent eyecare professionals from providing these patients with the best possible care,” said Dana Reid, marketing manager, Transitions Optical. “Hearing from cultural experts outside of the optical industry allowed for a powerful discussion, with Charlotte and Mila offering practical tips attendees could take home with them. It was especially valuable to have Fayiz and Dr. Marshall sit on the panel as well, helping to shed light on the lack of cultural competency programs and initiatives taking place within Optometry schools. There is certainly an opportunity to create more dialogue among students about providing culturally competent care, and we look forward to encouraging action within this space.”
A report highlighting the discussion will be published this fall and made available for industry professionals to review at TransitionsPRO.com.
About Transitions Optical
Transitions Optical is the leading provider of plastic photochromic (adaptive) lenses to optical manufacturers worldwide. Having been the first to successfully manufacture and commercialize plastic adaptive lenses in 1990, and as a result of its relentless investment in research and development and technology, Transitions Optical offers a wide variety of products, setting new standards of advanced performance to provide ever increasing visual comfort and UV protection. Product leadership, consumer focus, and operational excellence have made the Transitions ® brand one of the most recognized consumer brands in optics. For more information about the company and Transitions lenses, visit Transitions.com or TransitionsPRO.com.