(98142-GO, 1 hr CE)
In this compelling, one hour episode, Dr. Aaron Neufeld explores the rapidly growing role of Artificial Intelligence in modern eyecare—from clinical breakthroughs to operational transformation. Designed for optometrists, ophthalmologists, and tech-curious professionals alike, this podcast offers a deep dive into how AI, machine learning, and deep learning are reshaping diagnostics, patient care, and practice efficiency.
You’ll learn:
The episode wraps up with an essential conversation on ethics, privacy, and the evolving role of the optometrist in an AI-driven world. Whether you’re looking to stay ahead of the curve clinically or explore practical AI tools to enhance your workflow, this is a must-listen.
Show Sponsors
How To get CE Credit:
(COPE ID 97822-GL, 0.5 hr CE)
Dr. Jessica Schiffbauer discusses the management of complications associated with minimally invasive glaucoma surgery (MiGs). MiGs, which include procedures like SLT, iStent, and the Zen gel stent, are minimally invasive, have a high safety profile, and require less follow-up compared to more invasive glaucoma surgeries.
Complications such as inflammation, IOP fluctuations, and blood reflux are common, especially in patients with a history of uveitis or chronic inflammation. Management involves using antibiotics, NSAIDs, and steroids, and in some cases, pilocarpine or digital pressure. Effective communication with glaucoma specialists is crucial for successful outcomes.
(97859-TD, 0.5 hr)
Dr. Sarah Terlesky, an optometrist in Virginia, discusses the implementation and benefits of intense pulse light (IPL) and low-level light therapy (LLLT) in optometry. IPL, which targets chromophores in the skin, has shown significant success for many patients.
IPL is effective for dry eye relief, particularly for skin types 1-4, while LLLT, which uses specific wavelengths for photobiomodulation, is safe for all skin types. Photobiomodulation has shown promising results for dry eye, rosacea, and AMD, with personalized treatment plans and careful patient selection being crucial for success.
(97461-PO, 0.5 hr)
In this series, Dr. Jeff Banas and Dr. Nick Bruns will walk us through the fundamentals of the light adjustable lens — what it is, how it works, and why it’s becoming a game-changer in surgical vision correction. Today’s episode sets the foundation: we’ll cover the evolution of adjustable IOLs, why traditional lenses often fall short, and how the LAL allows patients to customize their vision after surgery.
Dr. Bruns is actually one of the most experienced ODs in the country when it comes to LAL — having started with it back in early 2020 — and his insights on patient outcomes, workflow integration, and refractive accuracy are incredibly valuable.
Dr. Banas brings a fantastic perspective from both the OD and patient education side, especially when it comes to managing expectations and guiding patients through the adjustment process.
(96582-PM, 0.5 hr CE)
Dr. Chris Lopez discusses the complexities of billing and coding for glaucoma and retina conditions in optometry. He highlights that only 28% of optometrists bill for visual fields, 28% for OCT of the nerve, 27% for OCT of the retina, 33% for fundus photos, 6% for pachymetry, and less than 5% for gonioscopy. Ophthalmologists bill for these tests at higher rates.
Dr. Lopez emphasizes the importance of medical necessity and provides detailed reimbursement rates for various tests. He also notes the growing demand for medical eye care due to an aging population and the need for optometrists to expand their roles.
(96581-PH, 0.5 hr CE)
Hosted by Dr. Chris Lopez and Dr. Sam Valley, this episode discusses hydroxychloroquine, its uses, side effects, and role in eye care.
Introduced in 1955, hydroxychloroquine is used for malaria treatment, prophylaxis, and autoimmune diseases like lupus and rheumatoid arthritis. Key dosing guidelines are 400 mg weekly for malaria prophylaxis, 800 mg initially followed by 400 mg at intervals for malaria treatment, and 200-400 mg daily for autoimmune diseases.
Monitoring for toxicity involves visual field testing, OCT retina, and other assessments. Risk factors include dose, duration, age, renal function, and genetics. Effective communication with rheumatologists is crucial for patient care.
(96580-PM, 0.5 hr)
Dr. Miki Lynn Zilnicki, co-owner of Twin Forks Optometry, shares insights on cold starting a vision therapy practice. Key decisions include whether to focus solely on vision therapy or offer full-scope services, accepting insurance, and whether to include an optical.
Miki emphasizes the importance of aligning practice goals with personal values and cautioned against over-investing in advanced technology initially. She details the costs of starting a practice, which was around $250,000 for her, and highlights the benefits of virtual vision therapy during COVID-19. She also discusses the importance of precise documentation for workers' compensation and no-fault cases.
(COPE ID 96562-PH, 0.5 hr)
Dr. Sam Valley, who holds both an OD and PharmD degree, discusses the interplay between hypertension, cholesterol, and cardiology, emphasizing their implications for ocular health.
Key points include the ASCVD risk calculator, which evaluates factors like blood pressure and cholesterol levels. Hypertension treatments are detailed, highlighting thiazide diuretics (e.g., hydrochlorothiazide) and their side effects like dry eye. ACE inhibitors (e.g., Lisinopril) and ARBs (e.g., Losartan) are also discussed, noting their effects on blood pressure and potential side effects like dry cough. Calcium channel blockers and beta blockers are mentioned for their roles in hypertension and arrhythmia management. The conversation also covers statins for hyperlipidemia, their benefits and rare side effects like myopathies. Finally, the discussion touches on medications for congestive heart failure, including loop diuretics and potassium-sparing diuretics, and their potential ocular side effects.
(COPE ID 96221-PH, 0.5 hr)
Dr. Sam Valley, who holds both an OD and PharmD degree, discusses the role of eye care providers in diabetes management, emphasizing inter-professional communication and continuity of care. Key points include the common use of metformin for type 2 diabetes, its adverse effects like nausea, and strategies to improve patient adherence. Sulfonylureas, such as glipizide, glyburide, and glimepiride, were highlighted for their risk of hypoglycemia. GLP-1 agonists, like ozempic, were discussed for their effectiveness in controlling blood glucose and reducing cardiovascular risks, despite potential ocular side effects. The importance of monitoring patients on these medications was stressed, especially for those using them for weight loss.
(COPE ID 96218-PO, 0.5 hr)
Dr. Josh Davidson, dry eye guru and practice owner, discusses norms and expectations in preoperative prep for cataract surgery.
He highlights that 60-80% of cataract patients have ocular surface disease (OSD), which affects post-surgery satisfaction. He also goes over the following: 1) emphasize the importance of treating OSD before surgery to prevent vision and safety issues, 2) routine preoperative lab tests are unnecessary, citing studies that found no benefit 3) recommend tear osmolarity, MMP-9 tests, and staining for preoperative workups. 4) stress the need for optometrists to educate patients about surgical options and preoperative hygiene.
(COPE ID: 96220-NO, 0.5 hr)
Dr. Miki Zilnicki, BV/VT specialist and co-owner of Twin Forks Optometry, discusses handling complaints of double vision (diplopia). Key steps include determining onset, frequency, and direction of double vision, which can indicate serious conditions like space-occupying lesions. Best practice regarding testing and management are discussed in detail.
(COPE ID: 95851-TD, 0.5 hr)
In this episode, Dr. Chris Lopez discusses the advancements in posterior segment technology, focusing on four key areas: ERG (Electroretinography), extended color vision, virtual visual field testing, and lasers in optometry. ERG, now a handheld device, assesses retinal function objectively, with protocols like DRA for diabetic retinopathy.
Extended color vision tests, quick and subjective, aid in retinal and optic nerve function assessment. Virtual visual fields, performed via headsets, offer convenience and are comparable to traditional tests. Lasers, including YAG capsulotomy, LPI, and SLT, are increasingly used by optometrists, especially in rural areas, despite low ROI, emphasizing comprehensive patient care
(COPE ID: 95851-TD, 0.5 hr)
Dr. Chris Lopez discusses the integration of anterior segment technology in optometry to enhance patient care. Key technologies include low-level light therapy (LLLT), which has anti-inflammatory properties and improves dry eye symptoms, and intense pulse light (IPL), which reduces inflammatory mediators and improves meibomian gland function. Zest, a product by Zocular, uses okra polysaccharide technology to remove Demodex mites, providing immediate clinical improvement. Anterior segment cameras aid in disease management by improving patient compliance and buy-in for advanced treatments. These technologies offer significant ROI and are often used as cash-pay services.
This episode qualifies for 0.5 hr COPE-accredited CE.
