American Academy of Ophthalmology (AAO) is a professional medical organization dedicated to the advancement of ophthalmic education and research. Founded in 1896, AAO is one of the oldest and most respected organizations devoted to eye health care in the United States.
The American Academy of Ophthalmology promotes excellence in patient care by setting standards for clinical practice, recognizing outstanding achievements through its awards program, providing educational opportunities for members, and advocating on behalf of patients with vision-related problems. The academy also works closely with other medical associations and government agencies to promote good public health practices related to eye health.
AAO’s mission statement states that it “is committed to advancing the lifelong success and quality of life of all people who are affected by or at risk from eye diseases.” This commitment has led AAO to develop programs that help reduce visual impairment worldwide through advocacy, research funding, continuing medical education (CME), public awareness campaigns, new technology advancements such as teleophthalmology, electronic health records (EHRs), remote patient monitoring systems (RPMs), international collaborations between ophthalmologists across different nations and cultures; along with developing new treatments such as gene therapy for age-related macular degeneration.
In addition to its core mission activities outlined above, AAO also organizes an annual meeting where leading experts present their findings on cutting-edge topics related to ocular medicine including glaucoma management strategies; cataract surgery advances; corneal transplantation techniques; diabetic retinopathy screening guidelines; pediatric ocular conditions diagnosis & treatment plans; advances in laser refractive surgery technologies etc., which allows attendees stay abreast current developments in their specialty areas. Furthermore, members can take part in various committees focused on specific areas within Ophthalmology like Refractive Surgery Committee or Cornea Society among others which provides a platform for collaboration between professionals working towards common goals such as improving access to high quality speciality care around world or creating safer outcomes through evidence based guideline recommendations etc.; thereby helping create better healthcare experiences globally .
The American Academy Of Ophthalmology has been instrumental in shaping modern day vision care standards – from promoting safety protocols regarding contact lens usage & intraocular surgeries while actively participating public policy discussions concerning insurance coverage levels & reimbursement rates – making sure individuals have access much needed comprehensive Eye Care services regardless economic background they come from . It continues ensure highest possible standards excellence throughout profession via periodic review certification requirements , ensuring practitioners maintain specialized skill sets needed provide effective treatments according changing needs society .