In today’s rapidly evolving landscape of eye care, the intersection of technology and human expertise is shaping the profession in unprecedented ways. Recently, Austin, TX, served as the backdrop for CooperVision's 8th Annual Residency Summit, where over 30 optometry residents from across the United States gathered to learn, connect, and explore innovative approaches to contact lens care and myopia management.
The summit was packed with interactive activities designed by CooperVision’s Professional Affairs team to challenge and inspire the attendees. Residents participated in lively debate about product selection for different patient profiles, sharpening their decision-making skills and understanding of clinical applications of various technologies.
An Eye on Myopia Management and Specialty Lenses
A Paragon CRT® troubleshooting relay race tested participants' ability to solve complex cases efficiently, while discussions on the journey of a child with myopia into adulthood highlighted the importance of early interventions and long-term care strategies.1 These conversations encouraged residents to think critically about their roles as doctors in guiding patients through pivotal stages of eye health and the specialty contact lens fitting process.
Sharing Different Perspectives in Optometry
One of the most enriching aspects of the summit was the diversity of perspectives brought by attendees from their respective hospitals, academic institutions, and clinics. Their varied backgrounds in pediatric eye care, ocular disease, and contact lens residencies enriched discussions on patient care. The collaborative environment fostered connections that will undoubtedly influence their future career and inspire leadership.
Professional Growth and CooperVision Innovations
In addition to these hands-on activities, attendees engaged in presentations showcasing CooperVision’s latest innovations in contact lens design and myopia management strategies. Esteemed guest speakers, including Dr. Nick Chu, Dr. Zachary Holland, Dr. Cayti McDaniel, and Dr. Ashley Tucker, shared their expertise and perspectives on various topics ranging from clinical case reviews, pediatric eye exam strategies, building a successful private practice, to career development. The subsequent panel discussions, focused on professional growth, provided actionable advice for residents as they prepare to complete their residencies and enter the field.
A highlight of the summit was an interactive “Ask Me Anything” session with CooperVision’s Professional Affairs team. This interactive session offered invaluable insights on how CooperVision can support the residents’ career development and offered practical guidance for navigating the future of optometry.
CooperVision’s Investment in Future Contact Lens Leaders
By hosting transformative experiences like the Residency Summit, CooperVision demonstrates its commitment to advancing the profession and empowering future leaders in eye care. Through its academic programs for optometry students and residents, CooperVision provides valuable educational opportunities that enhance learning while supporting underserved communities.
Attendees left the Residency Summit with a deeper understanding of innovative products and a clear direction for their future careers in optometry.
This event exemplified how bridging the gap between knowledge with practical application can inspire tomorrow’s eye care leaders to make a lasting impact on their patients’ health. As these future leaders embark on their professional journeys, they carry with them not only the knowledge and skills gained at the summit, but also a shared vision to transform lives through the power of vision care, helping future generations live brightly!
