In 2008 the WV Legislature amended the drivers’ license statute to require vision screening every time one renews their drivers’ licenses.  

The new law, §17B-2-12a requires the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) to assure an eye screen test has been performed within 90 days every time someone applies or renews their license. A person can drive as long as their visual acuity is 20/60 or better in one eye, as long as the eye care specialist states that they feel the person has sufficient vision to safely operate a motor vehicle.  

 

Receiving the "Bull Dog Award" from the AAO on October 17 was Steve Powell, MD, Legislative Chair and Past President, WVAO.  Also in the picture is Daniel J. Briceland, MD, Secretary for State Affairs, Mary Louise Collins, MD, chair Committee for State Governmental Affairs, and Andrew M. Prince, chair Committee for State Organizational Development.

 
Receiving the 2010 Surgery by Surgeons Victory Award from the AAO on October 17 were Steve Powell, MD, Legislative Chair and Past President of the WVAEPS and Nancy Tonkin, Executive Director.  Also in the picture is Daniel J. Briceland, MD, Secretary for State Affairs, Mary Louise Collins, MD, chair Committee for State Governmental Affairs, and Andrew M. Prince, chair Committee for State Organizational Development.

Contact lenses that are decorative and over-the-counter, such as glow-in-the-dark or striped lenses, could be damaging to the eyes, according to the American Academy of Ophthalmology.

Wearing the lenses could lead to infections, inflammation, vision loss, and general pain, the AAO added.

Many of the decorative lenses are advertised as being fashion accessories, toys, or cosmetics, but researchers say all contact lenses need to be fitted by an eye doctor. During Halloween, many young people purchase odd-colored lenses to go with their costume.

(HealthNewsDigest.com) - SAN FRANCISCO – Men suffer from nearly three times as many eye injuries as women, according to a survey conducted by the American Academy of Ophthalmology (Academy) and the American Society of Ocular Trauma (ASOT). The annual Eye Injury Snapshot, a clinical survey of eye injuries across the U.S., conducted from May 16 to May 23 this year, found that men suffered the majority (73.5 percent) of the eye injuries. Annually, 2.5 million Americans suffer eye injuries and more than 52 percent of all injuries are taking place at home.

“It is often the most common household chores and activities that can lead to devastating eye injuries,” said Randolph L. Johnston, MD, president of the Academy. “Taking the time to protect your eyes while performing these tasks is the easiest way to protect your sight.”

 

Derek Sprunger, MD was recognized at the American Academy of Eye Physicians & Surgeons July 2010 Secretariat for State Affairs meeting for his service on the Secretariat.  Dr. Sprunger’s five-year term on the Secretariat will be complete at the end of this year.  The Secretariat for State Affairs is made up of two committees:  the Committee for State Governmental Affairs and the Committee for State Organizational Development. 

San Francisco, CA (Vocus) August 24, 2010

EyeCare America, a national non-profit organization that provides eye exams and eye health information to medically underserved communities is exposing five common eye care myths in honor of September’s Save Your Sight Month.

Five Common Eye Care Myths:

1.    Reading, sewing or doing other close work in dim light can damage your eyes.
Fact: Reading in dim light can cause eye fatigue, but it will not damage your eyes. Good lighting will make reading easier and will prevent eye fatigue, especially for older people whose lenses no longer change shape as easily as they did when they were younger.

2.    Carrots are the key to good vision
Fact: Yes, carrots are rich in vitamin A and beta-carotene, which are essential for maintaining good sight. But carrots are not the only eye healthy food. If you’re not a fan of carrots, don’t worry, there are plenty of other foods to choose from. For more beta-carotene rich choices, look for deep orange or yellow fruits and vegetables such as cantaloupe, mangos, apricots, peaches, and sweet potatoes.