Justin Kwan, head of myopia management at CooperVision, explains the importance of parent conversations and education when it comes to myopia management.

  
NASHVILLE, Tenn.—At Optometry's Meeting, the American Optometric Association (AOA) and CooperVision jointly announced the inaugural cohort of Change Agents for The Myopia Collective. According to the announcement, the commitment is designed to advance the standard of care for children with myopia. Sixty-six eyecare professionals were appointed as Change Agents, according to the announcement, with individuals from each U.S. state ensuring nationwide representation. The member total for the Collective stands at 1,871, the announcement said.

According to Justin Kwan, head of myopia management at CooperVision, “We hope every Change Agent will mentor at least five to 10 people in their immediate geographic area or on the state level. We are already involving Change Agents for podcasts, panels and workshops.”

“Change Agents will be the driving force behind The Myopia Collective, receiving specialized training in myopia management and leading legislative and advocacy initiatives in their communities,” added Michele Andrews, OD, vice president, marketing and professional affairs, Americas, CooperVision. “The enthusiasm from those who applied has been remarkable, with interest pouring in nationwide. We are excited to watch this initial group lead the charge in shaping a pivotal moment for children’s eye health.”

In September, according to Kwan, Change Agents will participate in a multi-day workshop in Chicago, equipping them with the necessary knowledge and skills to integrate myopia management more effectively into their practices and advocate on behalf of The Myopia Collective. Topics will include proven techniques for growing a myopia management practice, strategies for state and federal outreach, and updates on the current landscape of children’s vision. Change Agents will also share how to engage other health care professionals, legislators, and community members that look after children, Kwan said.


“The training provided to the Change Agents will empower them to lead the charge in their communities and make significant differences in the lives of children with myopia,” said AOA president Steven Reed, OD. “However, Change Agents are just one part of this pivotal initiative, with the other being the entire U.S. optometry community. We invite everyone to become members of The Myopia Collective, symbolizing a unified dedication to advancing myopia management across the profession. Members will gain access to valuable educational resources, receive exclusive insights on best practices, and be among the first to receive community news and updates,” Reed said.

For more information about The Myopia Collective, including information about how to become a member, click here.