Defocus Media Podcast Network

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Welcome to the Defocus Media Podcast, Optometry's #1 Podcast Network! We assist in providing eyecare professionals with the latest in optometric industry news, eyewear trends, and discussions of the hottest topics in the eyecare profession.

1 DAY AGO

Unlocking Mobile Eye Care Access with Powerful Government Partnerships

What’s covered :Partnering with Non-Profits and Government OrganizationsGovernment Contracts: A Pathway to Expand ServicesReal-World Examples: Case Studies in ActionFinancial Viability: Can It Be Lucrative?Breaking Into the Field: Tips for OptometristsThe Future of Mobile Eye Care Dr. Karen L Slate , OD As the landscape of healthcare continues to evolve, one of the most significant advancements in eye care has been the rise of mobile optometry services, particularly through partnerships with government agencies and non-profit organizations. Dr. Karen Slate, founder of Clean Slate Vision, LLC, which operates mobile optometry services across Delaware, has been at the forefront of this movement, working to ensure underserved populations receive the vision care they need. These collaborations have opened doors to vulnerable communities, ensuring access to essential eye care where it might not have been possible otherwise. Mobile eye care services have emerged as a direct response to challenges faced by seniors, low-income families, and veterans with disabilities, who often struggle to access traditional eye care. Thanks to partnerships with government and non-profit organizations, mobile clinics like Dr. Slate’s offer comprehensive services, including eye exams, prescription glasses, and preventive eye health education, ensuring care reaches those in need, regardless of socio-economic status. Partnering with Non-Profits and Government Organizations Partnering with non-profit and government organizations can be a game-changer for optometrists looking to serve underprivileged communities. These collaborations create a sustainable model for delivering care, ensuring resources such as funding, equipment, and personnel are available to reach those in need. Vision to Learn, a non-profit dedicated to providing mobile vision services to children, and Nemours SeniorCare, which serves senior citizens living below the poverty line, are just two of the many programs that Clean Slate Vision partners with to deliver care in Delaware. These partnerships are critical to providing no-cost exams and eyewear to populations that may otherwise be left without. Dr. Slate says “When we collaborate with government agencies, we are able to extend our services to include comprehensive care, such as cataract surgeries and follow-ups, which would not be possible without their involvement.” These partnerships allow optometrists to tap into a network of healthcare professionals, community organizations, and even transportation services, ensuring that patients receive holistic care that addresses both medical and logistical needs. Government Contracts: A Pathway to Expand Services Securing government contracts can significantly broaden the scope of services an optometrist provides, especially for underprivileged communities. For example, Clean Slate Vision provides disability exams for veterans through a government contract. This type of work often allows optometrists to see complex cases and play an essential role in the...

28 min
16 SEPT

Advanced Surgical and Medical Treatments in Glaucoma

In the dynamic field of eye care, staying at the forefront of medical advancements is crucial for ensuring patients receive the best possible treatments. Glaucoma, a progressive and often silent disease, is one of the most challenging conditions eye care professionals manage. With the rise in glaucoma cases, particularly as the population ages, it becomes increasingly important for optometrists and ophthalmologists to work together to provide seamless, comprehensive care. This article delves into advanced surgical and medical treatments in glaucoma management, drawing insights from Dr. Darryl Glover and his podcast discussion with Dr. Alexander Barsam, a comprehensive ophthalmologist and glaucoma expert. Alexander S. Barsam, MD, MBA, NC ENT at Duke What’s Covered:Understanding Glaucoma: A Silent ThreatDrops vs. Surgical Interventions: A Shift in Treatment PhilosophySelective Laser Trabeculoplasty (SLT)Micro-Invasive Glaucoma Surgery (MIGS): Bridging the GapSetting the Stage for Glaucoma Surgery: Partnering with Glaucoma Experts Understanding Glaucoma: A Silent Threat Glaucoma is often called the “silent thief of sight” because it can progress without noticeable symptoms until significant vision loss occurs. The condition is characterized by damage to the optic nerve, primarily due to elevated intraocular pressure (IOP). Early detection and intervention are critical to preserving vision, but many patients remain undiagnosed until the disease is in its advanced stages. As Dr. Glover highlights, “I’m blown away by how many patients walk into my door with severe glaucoma.” This underscores the need for increased awareness and better diagnostic tools to catch the disease earlier, ideally before irreversible damage. Drops vs. Surgical Interventions: A Shift in Treatment Philosophy Traditional Management: * Topical medications like prostaglandins and beta-blockers have historically been the first line of treatment for glaucoma. * These medications effectively lower intraocular pressure (IOP) but come with challenges. Patients often struggle with side effects such as ocular surface irritation, redness, and the burden of adhering to a daily regimen. * Compliance remains a significant hurdle, with studies showing that adherence rates for once-daily drops hover around 70%, similar to more complex regimens from decades ago. This stagnation in compliance highlights the need for better treatment options that address both efficacy and patient quality of life. Emerging Approach: * In response to these challenges, eye care professionals are shifting towards more proactive and interventional treatments. This approach includes surgical options that intervene earlier in the disease process, reducing dependence on drops. * Dr. Alexander Barsam emphasizes the benefits of this ...

35 min
12 SEPT

Can You Heal Your Visual Issues Through Your Emotions ?

Eye health is often approached from a purely physical standpoint. Patients receive prescriptions for glasses or undergo surgeries to correct their vision. But what if we could also tap into the mind to heal visual issues? Dr. Vitu Ban’s groundbreaking work suggests that emotions and vision are deeply interconnected, and healing might involve more than just a physical fix. What’s Covered :The Connection Between Vision and EmotionDr. Vi Tu Banh’s, V2 MethodA 5-step approach to Dr. Vi tu Bahn’s V2 Method:1. Holistic Assessment2. Prism Therapy Application3. Neuroplasticity Activation4. Emotional and Physical Grounding5. Ongoing Monitoring and Adjustment The Connection Between Vision and Emotion The eyes are often referred to as the windows to the soul. Emotionally charged situations can affect how we see the world—literally. Stress, anxiety, and trauma can alter vision, leading to issues such as headaches, double vision, and discomfort. Dr. Ban has found that patients who have suffered physical injuries often carry emotional trauma that manifests in their visual system. Addressing these emotional layers has led to astonishing results in improving not just their vision but their overall well-being. For instance, trauma survivors may hold tension in their bodies that disrupts their visual system. Emotional states like fear or distress can exacerbate or create conditions like strabismus (eye misalignment) or convergence insufficiency, making it difficult for individuals to focus on near objects or coordinate their eyes. These emotional and psychological barriers block traditional vision correction methods. Dr. Vi Tu Banh’s, V2 Method The V2 Method is a holistic vision therapy approach developed by Dr. Vi Tu Banh . It integrates prism lenses, neuroplasticity, and emotional healing to address vision issues caused by physical trauma or emotional stress. The “V” stands for Vision or Victory, symbolizing the goal of achieving optimal visual function and well-being, while the “2” represents the synergy between emotional and physical health. This method helps patients achieve both physical and emotional grounding, leading to long-term vision improvement. As Dr. Bahn puts it, “The person directs the motion, which directs the brain to get to a different pathway. Once they renew, they don’t need [the prisms] anymore.” One case that highlights the power of this method involved a woman who had walked with her head tilted for 15 years due to double vision, following a severe cheerleading accident. After traditional surgeries failed her, Dr. Ban introduced prism therapy, and the results were immediate. Not only did her vision improve, but her posture corrected itself as if her body had released years of pent-up tension.The prism lenses, however, are not meant to be a long-term solution. Instead, they serve as a temporary training tool to rewire the brain, using neuroplasticity—the brain’s ability to adapt and form new connections. Patients eventually no longer need the prisms as their brains learn to process visual information correctly. A 5-step approach to Dr. Vi tu Bahn’s V2 Method: 1. Holistic Assessment * Begin with a comprehensive evaluation of the patient’s physical and emotional ...

49 min
12 SEPT

Geographic Atrophy: A Comprehensive Guide for Eye Care Professionals

Geographic Atrophy, a late-stage form of age-related macular degeneration (AMD), has become an increasingly prevalent topic in retinal care, particularly as advancements in diagnostic technologies and treatments evolve. While wet AMD has long been a primary focus in optometric and ophthalmologic practice, Geographic Atrophy’s rapid progression and significant impact on vision warrant attention and awareness. In this article, featuring insights from expert guests Dr. James Fanelli and Dr. Roya Attar, we will explore the nature of Geographic Atrophy, its diagnosis, patient education, and current treatment options, offering eye care professionals actionable insights to serve their patients better. In Partnership with Heidelberg Engineering Key Talking PointsUnderstanding Geographic AtrophyEarly Identification and Diagnosis For Geographic AtrophyRisk Factors and Patient HistoryCurrent Treatment Options For Geographic AtrophyThe Role of Patient EducationLooking to the Future: Emerging TherapiesKey Takeaways for Eye Care Professionals Understanding Geographic Atrophy Geographic Atrophy refers to the irreversible degeneration of retinal pigment epithelial (RPE) cells and the photoreceptors they support, leading to permanent vision loss. Geographic Atrophy is a form of “dry” AMD, though it’s often distinguished from early dry AMD due to its severity. As Dr. Chris Lievens mentioned in a recent discussion, Geographic Atrophy was historically grouped into the broader category of dry AMD, leading many clinicians to underestimate its destructive potential. The reality is Geographic Atrophy can cause severe vision impairment, even if it doesn’t progress to the “wet” or neovascular form of AMD. “One of the most alarming aspects of Geographic Atrophy is its rapid progression and the devastating visual loss it can cause,” notes Dr. James Fanelli, a seasoned practitioner specializing in retinal diseases. “Patients may start with minimal symptoms, but once the disease reaches the fovea, their vision is significantly compromised.” Early Identification and Diagnosis For Geographic Atrophy Identifying Geographic Atrophy early is critical for preventing its progression and protecting patients’ vision. Clinical diagnosis usually begins with a thorough fundus examination, complemented by advanced imaging techniques such as Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT) and fundus autofluorescence (FAF). Dr. Fanelli emphasizes the importance of recognizing Geographic Atrophy in its early stages: “In the early stages, you may notice subtle changes such as small areas of RPE atrophy. These areas, best visualized in vivo using a slit lamp, will appear as depigmented patches, with choroidal structures becoming more visible.” While OCT is a widely used tool, Heidelberg Engineering’s fundus autofluorescence (FAF) technology plays a pivotal role in detecting Geographic Atrophy.

45 min
5 SEPT

A New Era in Presbyopia Treatment: The Promise of Aceclidine

The discussion began with an acknowledgment of the current landscape of presbyopia treatment. Pilocarpine, the first presbyopia-correcting eyedrop, generated significant excitement upon its release. However, many eye care professionals, including Dr. Lyerly, expressed disappointment with its performance. Pilocarpine works by stimulating the ciliary muscle to induce miosis, creating a small pupil size that enhances depth of focus. While this mechanism can temporarily improve near vision, it often comes at the cost of distance vision, as pilocarpine can induce myopia (nearsightedness). Dr. Odrich pointed out that this myopic shift, along with the short duration of action of pilocarpine, limited its usefulness for many patients. "Imagine telling a 58-year-old patient that while a drop can improve their near vision, it might worsen their distance vision and require them to get new glasses," Dr. Odrich explained. "That's a tough sell, especially when the drop needs to be reapplied every three to four hours." These limitations highlighted the need for a better solution—one that could enhance near vision without compromising distance vision or requiring frequent dosing. This need set the stage for the introduction of aceclidine, a novel presbyopia treatment in development by LENZ Therapeutics. Let’s Connect! Defocus Media on Social Media: 👁️ Instagram: / defocusmedia 👁️ Facebook: / defocusmedia 👁️ LinkedIn: / defocus-media 👁️ Twitter: / defocusmedia

33 min
2 SEPT

New England College of Optometry Industry Collaborative

The healthcare landscape is constantly evolving, and within it, the field of eye care must continuously strive for clinical excellence, unmatched patient care, and innovation. These objectives are essential for advancing the profession and making a broader impact on the healthcare system. The New England College of Optometry (NECO) is at the forefront of these efforts, spearheading initiatives like the Industry Collaborative to bring together academia, industry, and media to address these challenges. Let’s Connect! Defocus Media on Social Media: 👁️ Instagram: / defocusmedia 👁️ Facebook: / defocusmedia 👁️ LinkedIn: / defocus-media 👁️ Twitter: / defocusmedia 👀 Website: https://defocusmediagroup.com/ 👀 Want to stay up to date on the latest trends and hottest topics in eye care? 📧 Sign up for our newsletter! http://eepurl.com/ccuVZL

31 min
30 AUG

Bali Conversations: Optometry’s Role In Environmental Sustainability – Dr. Evelyn Lo

As sustainability takes center stage across industries, the optometry field is increasingly under the spotlight for its environmental impact, particularly in the use of contact lenses. This pressing issue was the focus of a recent episode of the 2020 Podcast, where Dr. Harbir Sian engaged in a thought-provoking conversation with Dr. Evelyn Lo, president of the BC Doctors of Optometry. Set against the breathtaking backdrop of Bali, Indonesia, the episode explored how optometry can lead the charge in reducing its environmental footprint while simultaneously promoting healthier communities worldwide. The Significance of Sustainability in Optometry The conversation began with Dr. Sian highlighting the growing focus on sustainability within the eye care industry, particularly in the context of contact lens manufacturing and usage. The waste generated by daily disposables and the overall carbon footprint of contact lenses have raised concerns among both practitioners and patients. Dr. Lo emphasized that while sustainability is often associated with environmental impact, it extends beyond that. “When we’re talking about sustainability, we’re not just talking about the environment,” Dr. Lo explained. “If there’s a healthy planet, there are going to be healthy people and healthy communities. These elements are interconnected, and the greatest benefit comes when they are addressed together.” CooperVision’s Commitment to Sustainability A significant part of the episode focused on CooperVision’s sustainability initiatives, particularly their partnership with Plastic Bank, a social enterprise that aims to reduce plastic waste while improving the lives of those who collect it. Dr. Lo and Dr. Sian discussed their hands-on experience in Bali, where they participated in activities such as cleaning up mangroves, learning about the plastic collection process, and interacting with local communities involved in these efforts. Dr. Lo praised CooperVision’s holistic approach, which not only focuses on reducing environmental impact but also on social responsibility. “It’s not just about picking trash out of the ocean,” Dr. Lo noted. “It’s about supporting the communities who are on the front lines of these sustainability efforts. This partnership is a great example of how corporate initiatives can have a far-reaching positive impact.” The Environmental Impact of Contact Lenses One of the key takeaways from the episode was the discussion around the environmental impact of different types of contact lenses. A common assumption is that daily disposable lenses are more harmful to the environment due to the sheer volume of waste they generate compared to monthly lenses. However, Dr. Lo challenged this notion by discussing the broader carbon footprint involved in the production, packaging, and transportation of monthly lenses, including the solutions required for their maintenance. “When you factor in the carbon footprint of producing and transporting solutions for monthly lenses, the environmental impact may not be as different as we might think,” Dr. Lo explained. This perspective underscores the importance of considering the full lifecycle of products when assessing their environmental impact. Raising Awareness and Education As the president of the BC Doctors of Optometry, Dr. Lo is in a unique position to influence the profession’s approach to sustainability. She highlighted the need for increased awareness and education among bot...

15 min
26 AUG

The Entrepreneurial Journey of Penny Rose Optical: A Legacy in Independent Eyewear

Penny Rose Optical stands out as a beacon of creativity, resilience, and authentic entrepreneurship in a rapidly evolving world of eyewear. For those deeply entrenched in the eye care industry—optometrists, opticians, and independent eyewear designers—Penny Rose is more than just a brand; it's a story of passion, community, and an unwavering commitment to excellence.
19 AUG

Phernell Walker: The Master Optician Revolutionizing Eye Care

Phernell Walker, a globally recognized Master Optician, has spent over three decades redefining the field of opticianry. From his early inspiration to help others see to becoming a leader, educator, and author of the influential textbook Pure Optics, Walker’s journey is a testament to his passion and dedication. Discover how this trailblazer has impacted the world of eye care and continues to inspire the next generation of professionals.

41 min
15 AUG

Incorporating Paid Research into Optometric Practice

Defocus Media Podcast Network

32 min

10 Episodes

Creator

Defocus Media Podcast Network
Years Active

2016 - 2024
Episodes

10
Rating

Clean
Show Website

Defocus Media Podcast Network

Defocus Media Podcast Network

Episodes

Unlocking Mobile Eye Care Access with Powerful Government Partnerships

Advanced Surgical and Medical Treatments in Glaucoma

Can You Heal Your Visual Issues Through Your Emotions ?

Geographic Atrophy: A Comprehensive Guide for Eye Care Professionals

A New Era in Presbyopia Treatment: The Promise of Aceclidine

New England College of Optometry Industry Collaborative

Bali Conversations: Optometry’s Role In Environmental Sustainability – Dr. Evelyn Lo

The Entrepreneurial Journey of Penny Rose Optical: A Legacy in Independent Eyewear

Phernell Walker: The Master Optician Revolutionizing Eye Care

Incorporating Paid Research into Optometric Practice

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