SYMPOSIUM
QUICK LINKS
QUICK LINKS
oao symposium 2026 agenda
- OD Program
Fri, March 27 - OD Program
Fri, March 27 - OD Program
Sat, March 28 - OD Program
Sun, March 29
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7:00 AM - 7:00 PMREGISTRATION
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7:00 AM - 8:30 AMbreakfast buffet
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7:30 AM - 8:50 PMAmniotic Membrane WorkshopSpeaker: Dr. Julian Prosia
Non-COPEThis hands-on workshop introduces optometrists to the clinical use of amniotic membrane therapy for ocular surface disease. Participants will review indications, insertion techniques, and post-procedure care, with emphasis on patient selection, contraindications, and documentation. Through demonstrations and guided practice, attendees will gain practical skills and confidence to integrate amniotic membrane therapy into optometric practice. -
8:00 AM - 8:50 AM
TBDSpeaker: TBD
Non-COPESession description TBDThis hands-on workshop introduces optometrists to the clinical use of amniotic membrane therapy for ocular surface disease. Participants will review indications, insertion techniques, and post-procedure care, with emphasis on patient selection, contraindications, and documentation. Through demonstrations and guided practice, attendees will gain practical skills and confidence to integrate amniotic membrane therapy into optometric practice. -
9:05 AM - 10:05 aMPresident’s Welcome and KeynoteSpeakers: Dr. Shaina Nensi and Neil Pasricha
Non-COPESession description TBDThis hands-on workshop introduces optometrists to the clinical use of amniotic membrane therapy for ocular surface disease. Participants will review indications, insertion techniques, and post-procedure care, with emphasis on patient selection, contraindications, and documentation. Through demonstrations and guided practice, attendees will gain practical skills and confidence to integrate amniotic membrane therapy into optometric practice. -
10:05 AM - 11:00 aMBooks for sale and signing with Neil Pasricha
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10:40 AM - 11:30 aMBeauty & the Blink: the ECP Guide to AestheticsSpeakers: Dr. Andrea Lasby and Dr. Janice Luk
COPE ID 97473-GOThis course explores the intersection of beauty, skincare, and ocular health, equipping eye care professionals with the knowledge to address patients' growing interest in aesthetics and eye-related beauty trends. Topics include safe cosmetic practices, ingredient awareness, the ocular implications of lash and skin treatments, and innovative therapies like IPL, RF, and plasma treatments. Gain insights into patient communication, product recommendations, and building a successful medical aesthetics practice, all while ensuring optimal eye health and safety. -
10:40 AM - 11:30 aMDiagnose this Disc Edema!Speaker: Dr. Carolyn Majcher
COPE ID 98780-NOUsing primarily a case-based presentation format, this course will cover some common and some not-so-common causes of unilateral and bilateral disc edema including papilledema and pseudopapilledema, ischemic optic neuropathy and optic neuritis. Case discussions will include interpretation of ancillary imaging diagnostic tests, systemic investigation, and generation of management plans using evidence-based medicine. -
11:30 AM - 4:00 PMLunch & InfoMart
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3:00 PM - 3:50 PMRetina Rejuvenation: Advances in AMD Wellness, Diagnostics and TreatmentsSpeaker: Dr. Trevor Miranda
COPE IDSession description TBDThis hands-on workshop introduces optometrists to the clinical use of amniotic membrane therapy for ocular surface disease. Participants will review indications, insertion techniques, and post-procedure care, with emphasis on patient selection, contraindications, and documentation. Through demonstrations and guided practice, attendees will gain practical skills and confidence to integrate amniotic membrane therapy into optometric practice. -
3:00 PM - 3:50 PMMyopia Management Overview and Best PracticesSpeaker: Dr. Sheila Morrison
COPE IDSession description TBDThis hands-on workshop introduces optometrists to the clinical use of amniotic membrane therapy for ocular surface disease. Participants will review indications, insertion techniques, and post-procedure care, with emphasis on patient selection, contraindications, and documentation. Through demonstrations and guided practice, attendees will gain practical skills and confidence to integrate amniotic membrane therapy into optometric practice. -
4:00 PM - 4:50 PMConnecting With the Generations to Inspire SalesSpeaker: Joyce VanRooyen
COPE IDWe are all working with up to 5 different generations every day, each of which is looking for a different experience! This session will enable everyone in the practice to understand how to effectively communicate with every generation, uncover ways to keep their practices relevant, create personalized experiences and increase patient retention. Join us to learn about the unique characteristics for each generation and their buying habits. Discover new ways to engage each generation to attract them to the practice – and keep them there to make a sale and increase revenue in the practice. -
4:00 PM - 4:50 PMDiagnosis Diabetes: The Optometric Modern Management GuideSpeaker: Dr. Carolyn Majcher
COPE IDThis course will cover both fundamental and advanced concepts of contemporary diabetic retinopathy care, with an emphasis on recent diagnostic and management developments. Real-world clinical applications of multi-modal imaging technology will be explored, including how it can detect pathology earlier and provide more accurate retinopathy staging. -
5:00 PM - 5:50 PMLevel Up: Collaborative Care for 2025 and BeyondSpeaker: Dr. Anu Ondhia
COPE ID 98190-POThis session will provide a practical overview of today's common ophthalmic surgeries, equipping attendees with the knowledge and confidence to optimize their patient care. We'll explore the latest advancements in intraocular lenses, the evolving landscape of glaucoma interventions, and best practices for perioperative management to achieve optimal patient outcomes and practice growth. -
5:00 PM - 5:50 PMOptometry in the Game: Putting Primary Care ODs on the Concussion Starting LineupSpeaker: Dr. Shirley Blanc
COPE ID 102024-NOThis lecture provides practical strategies for building, training, and motivating an optometric team, from initial hiring through advanced training. Participants will explore personalized team-building goals, effective management systems, and techniques for fostering long-term growth. Emphasis is placed on creating structured, franchise-like systems that support team members, patients and sustainable success. -
6:00 PM - 7:30 PMOAO/UW ReceptionJoin us at the OAO/UW reception to network with peers and enjoy delicious food and drink.
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7:00 AM - 7:00 PMREGISTRATION
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7:00 AM - 8:30 AMbreakfast buffet
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8:00 AM - 8:50 PMTBI, BV, Vision TherapySpeaker: Dr. Jacqueline Theis
Session description TBDThis hands-on workshop introduces optometrists to the clinical use of amniotic membrane therapy for ocular surface disease. Participants will review indications, insertion techniques, and post-procedure care, with emphasis on patient selection, contraindications, and documentation. Through demonstrations and guided practice, attendees will gain practical skills and confidence to integrate amniotic membrane therapy into optometric practice. -
8:00 AM - 8:50 AMMyopia Management 101Speakers: Dr. Andrea Lasby and Dr. Sheila Morrison
Session description TBDThis hands-on workshop introduces optometrists to the clinical use of amniotic membrane therapy for ocular surface disease. Participants will review indications, insertion techniques, and post-procedure care, with emphasis on patient selection, contraindications, and documentation. Through demonstrations and guided practice, attendees will gain practical skills and confidence to integrate amniotic membrane therapy into optometric practice. -
9:05 AM - 10:05 AMPresident’s Welcome and KeynoteSpeakers: Dr. Shaina Nensi and Neil Pasricha
Non-COPESession description TBDThis hands-on workshop introduces optometrists to the clinical use of amniotic membrane therapy for ocular surface disease. Participants will review indications, insertion techniques, and post-procedure care, with emphasis on patient selection, contraindications, and documentation. Through demonstrations and guided practice, attendees will gain practical skills and confidence to integrate amniotic membrane therapy into optometric practice. -
10:05 AM - 11:00 aMBooks for sale and signing with Neil Pasricha
-
10:40 AM - 11:30 aMbeauty & the Blink: the ECP Guide to AestheticsSpeakers: Dr. Andrea Lasby and Dr. Janice Luk
This course explores the intersection of beauty, skincare, and ocular health, equipping eye care professionals with the knowledge to address patients' growing interest in aesthetics and eye-related beauty trends. Topics include safe cosmetic practices, ingredient awareness, the ocular implications of lash and skin treatments, and innovative therapies like IPL, RF, and plasma treatments. Gain insights into patient communication, product recommendations, and building a successful medical aesthetics practice, all while ensuring optimal eye health and safety. -
10:40 AM - 11:30 aM911 for the Eyes – A Crash Course in TriageSpeaker: Joyce VanRooyen
How do you feel when you get those emergency calls at the office? Are you prepared with how to handle them in a way that calms the patient and gathers all the information for the OD? Triaging your patients is crucial to maintaining the flow of the office as well as providing your patients with timely care in a sometimes scary situation. This session walks through what you need to know about triaging effectively but with care and compassion for the patient on the other end of the line. Come and get refreshed on what you already do right as well as learn some tips and tricks on triaging your patients. -
11:30 AM - 4:00 PMLunch & InfoMart
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3:00 PM - 3:50 PMRetina Rejuvenation: Advances in AMD Wellness, Diagnostics and TreatmentsSpeaker: Dr. Trevor Miranda
Session descriptionThis hands-on workshop introduces optometrists to the clinical use of amniotic membrane therapy for ocular surface disease. Participants will review indications, insertion techniques, and post-procedure care, with emphasis on patient selection, contraindications, and documentation. Through demonstrations and guided practice, attendees will gain practical skills and confidence to integrate amniotic membrane therapy into optometric practice. -
3:00 PM - 3:50 PMCataracts and Laser Co-management – Staff PerspectiveSpeaker: Dr. Anu Ondhia
Session DescriptionThis hands-on workshop introduces optometrists to the clinical use of amniotic membrane therapy for ocular surface disease. Participants will review indications, insertion techniques, and post-procedure care, with emphasis on patient selection, contraindications, and documentation. Through demonstrations and guided practice, attendees will gain practical skills and confidence to integrate amniotic membrane therapy into optometric practice. -
4:00 PM - 4:50 PMConnecting With the Generations to Inspire SalesSpeaker: Joyce VanRooyen
We are all working with up to 5 different generations every day, each of which is looking for a different experience! This session will enable everyone in the practice to understand how to effectively communicate with every generation, uncover ways to keep their practices relevant, create personalized experiences and increase patient retention. Join us to learn about the unique characteristics for each generation and their buying habits. Discover new ways to engage each generation to attract them to the practice – and keep them there to make a sale and increase revenue in the practice -
4:00 PM - 5:50 PMInteractive Specialty Contact Lenses WorkshopSpeakers: Dr. Andrea Lasby and Dr. Sheila Morrison
Session DescriptionThis course will cover both fundamental and advanced concepts of contemporary diabetic retinopathy care, with an emphasis on recent diagnostic and management developments. Real-world clinical applications of multi-modal imaging technology will be explored, including how it can detect pathology earlier and provide more accurate retinopathy staging. -
5:00 PM - 5:50 PMInterpreting the Essentials: A Beginner’s Guide to VF and OCT in Clinical PracticeSpeaker: Dr. Sarah MacIver
This session provides optometric assistants with practical skills to understand and confidently interpret OCT and visual field results. Participants will learn key patterns, common artifacts, and red flags that support accurate testing and enhance patient care. Designed to strengthen clinic workflow, communication, and the assistant’s role in glaucoma and retinal assessments. -
6:00 PM - 7:30 PMOAO/UW ReceptionJoin us at the OAO/UW reception to network with peers and enjoy delicious food and drink.
-
7:00 AM - 4:00 PMREGISTRATION
-
7:30 AM - 8:30 AMbreakfast buffet
-
8:00 AM - 8:50 AM
TBDSpeaker: TBD
Non-COPESession description TBDThis hands-on workshop introduces optometrists to the clinical use of amniotic membrane therapy for ocular surface disease. Participants will review indications, insertion techniques, and post-procedure care, with emphasis on patient selection, contraindications, and documentation. Through demonstrations and guided practice, attendees will gain practical skills and confidence to integrate amniotic membrane therapy into optometric practice. -
9:20 AM - 10:40 aMAmniotic Membrane WorkshopSpeaker: Dr. Julian Prosia
COPE IDThis hands-on workshop introduces optometrists to the clinical use of amniotic membrane therapy for ocular surface disease. Participants will review indications, insertion techniques, and post-procedure care, with emphasis on patient selection, contraindications, and documentation. Through demonstrations and guided practice, attendees will gain practical skills and confidence to integrate amniotic membrane therapy into optometric practice. -
9:20 AM - 11:00 aMRetina Case-Based Panel DiscussionSpeakers: Dr. Thomas Lee, Dr. Adam McLaughlin, and Dr Raman Tuli
COPE IDSession description TBDThis hands-on workshop introduces optometrists to the clinical use of amniotic membrane therapy for ocular surface disease. Participants will review indications, insertion techniques, and post-procedure care, with emphasis on patient selection, contraindications, and documentation. Through demonstrations and guided practice, attendees will gain practical skills and confidence to integrate amniotic membrane therapy into optometric practice. -
11:10 AM - 12:00 PMOral Pharmaceuticals in Primary OptometrySpeaker: Dr. Blair Lonsberry
COPE IDSession description TBDThis hands-on workshop introduces optometrists to the clinical use of amniotic membrane therapy for ocular surface disease. Participants will review indications, insertion techniques, and post-procedure care, with emphasis on patient selection, contraindications, and documentation. Through demonstrations and guided practice, attendees will gain practical skills and confidence to integrate amniotic membrane therapy into optometric practice. -
11:10 AM - 12:00 PMBringing Artificial Intelligence Use in Glaucoma from Concept to ClinicSpeaker: Dr. Sarah MacIver
COPE IDThis session examines how AI is reshaping glaucoma care. It will cover clinical integration of deep learning, algorithmic fairness, and regulatory frameworks. Attendees will explore emerging applications in OCT analysis, progression prediction, and risk stratification, with discussion on real-world barriers, transparency issues, and the role of clinicians in AI-assisted care. -
12:00 PM - 1:30 PMPresident’s Lunch and OAO Awards
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1:40 PM - 3:10 PMRetina Rejuvenation: Becoming a Centre of AMD WellnessSpeaker: Dr. Trevor Miranda
COPE IDThis session reviews treatments for AMD as well as the processes of setting up an AMD wellness center within the clinic. -
1:40 PM - 3:20 PMWellness Panel DiscussionSpeakers: Dr. Laurie Capogna, Dr. Sarah MacIver, and Dr. Mike Sebastian
COPE IDSession description TBDThis hands-on workshop introduces optometrists to the clinical use of amniotic membrane therapy for ocular surface disease. Participants will review indications, insertion techniques, and post-procedure care, with emphasis on patient selection, contraindications, and documentation. Through demonstrations and guided practice, attendees will gain practical skills and confidence to integrate amniotic membrane therapy into optometric practice. -
3:30 PM - 4:20 PMPediatric Problems: Is It Really Dyslexia?Speaker: Dr. Jacqueline Theis
COPE IDThis course will review the examination recommended to rule out visual dysfunction in patients with learning and reading disorders and outline the management options and scholastic accommodations that can be advocated for to empower your pediatric patients in their educational pursuits. -
3:30 PM - 4:20 PMLaser Procedures in Optometric PracticeSpeaker: Dr. Blair Lonsberry
COPE IDSession description TBDThis hands-on workshop introduces optometrists to the clinical use of amniotic membrane therapy for ocular surface disease. Participants will review indications, insertion techniques, and post-procedure care, with emphasis on patient selection, contraindications, and documentation. Through demonstrations and guided practice, attendees will gain practical skills and confidence to integrate amniotic membrane therapy into optometric practice. -
4:30 PM - 5:20 PMSpecialty Contact Lenses Made SimpleSpeaker: Dr Shalu Pal
COPE ID 98436-CLHow do we take a complex fitting process like fitting scleral lenses, orthokeratology and hybrid lenses and make the process simple? Years ago, fitting toric and multifocal contact lenses was reserved for contact lens experts. Today let’s simplify the fitting process so these specialty lenses are just as simple to fit. I will take the last 22 years of specialty lens fitting and simplify the process for you. -
4:30 PM - 5:20 PMPractical Approaches to Modern Dry Eye Treatment and ManagementSpeaker: Dr Marc Bloomenstein
COPE IDIn this course, we will give eyecare professionals a first look at new data, technology, and treatments that are evolving patient care and propelling the profession forward. -
7:00 PM - 11:30 PMNetworking event at The National Gallery
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7:45 AM - 4:00 PMREGISTRATION
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8:00 AM - 9:00 AMbreakfast buffet
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8:30 AM - 10:10 AMThe Science of Red Light TherapySpeaker: Dr. Cecelia Koetting
COPE ID 101600-TDThis lecture will give an overview of photobiomodulation and its treatment applications for ocular surface disease. It will discuss the science of technology, treatment protocols, and clinical applications. Case studies will be reviewed to demonstrate implementation pearls and best practices. -
8:30 AM - 10:10 AMFront to Back of the Eye CasesSpeaker: Dr. Marc Bloomenstein
COPE ID 97489-TDAs ODs we tend to separate the front of the eye from the back of the eye. However, there are conditions that affect the eye from the anterior to posterior. This course will use case examples to illustrate how, as ODs we need to treat the whole eye. -
10:10 AM - 10:45 AMAGM check-in
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10:10 AM - 12:30 PMAnnual Meeting
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12:30 PM - 1:00 PMLunch Buffet
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1:00 PM - 2:40 PMCorneal Meltdowns to Retinal Blowouts:A Survival Guide to Ocular EmergenciesSpeaker: Dr. Cecelia Koetting
COPE ID 101596-TDWho doesn’t love a last-minute ocular emergency? This course explores common anterior and posterior segment emergencies, equipping clinicians with practical triage and treatment strategies to manage urgent cases efficiently. -
2:55 PM - 3:45 PMManaging Presbyopia to Its Full PotentialSpeaker: Dr. Shalu Pal
COPE IDThe expectation of presbyopes to have functional vision in all ranges of vision is higher than ever before. Presbyopes are young active adults needing hassle free vision. Let’s explore the options available to provide the best care for our patients.
learn from
world-class speakers
The annual OAO Symposium and InfoMart invites world-class speakers from North America to present a thoughtfully-curated program of continuing education lectures to enhance your knowledge and skills and learn how to treat the often-challenging scenarios of the patients you serve.