The AAOP™ Clinical Teams Program of AAO 2024 is the premier learning track and networking event for ophthalmic medical personnel such as technicians, registered nurses, surgical assistants, and more. Now in its second year, the all-new program has been developed for clinical professionals who support physician-led patient care.
From Oct. 18 to 21, new and seasoned clinical team members can level up their skills and knowledge with a Friday Intensive (Train the Trainer: Specialized Training for Ophthalmic Technician Educators), a Friday tech challenge (Who Wants to be a Super Tech?), and 14 instructional courses covering clinical efficiencies, compliance, education, and technical skills.
Registration is now open. The Clinical Teams Program is in-person only. There is no virtual option for this track as the CE credits are approved for classroom training only.
Register for AAO 2024
Sponsored, in part, by grants from Alcon and Genentech.
Friday, Oct. 18
Train the Trainer: Specialized Training for Ophthalmic Technician Educators (Event #MC04) ($*)
8 a.m. to 2 p.m.
McCormick Place, Level 5, Room S505ab
(*Separate ticket purchase required)
Join an expert panel of technician trainers for an intensive program developed specifically for those charged with training ophthalmic clinical staff. These fast-paced sessions include:
- A review of adult learning principles
- Keys to developing relevant curriculum
- In-depth discussions on building a successful tech training program
- Effective methods for teaching refractions and applanation tonometry
The session will conclude with the panel offering insight and personal suggestions for overcoming your training challenges.
Senior Instructor: Amy Jost, COMT, MED
Co-instructors: Rhonda Ullom, COMT, OSC; Veronica L Plessinger, COMT; Sergina M Flaherty, COMT, OSC
This program has been submitted to IJCAHPO for consideration of CE credit.
*Ticket Information:
- Meeting registration is required to attend Friday Intensives on Oct. 18.
- Friday Intensives require purchase of a separate ticket ($).
- $250 (Early: June 26 to Aug. 7)
- $270 (Advance: Aug. 8 to Sept. 18)
- $300 (Onsite: Sept. 10 to Oct. 18)
- Each Friday Intensive ticket includes an electronic workbook and either breakfast or an afternoon snack.
Who Wants to be a Super Tech? (Event #MC05)
3 to 5 p.m.
McCormick Place, Level 5, Room S505ab
This event is for AAOP members only and is included with AAO 2024 registration.
Team up with your friends and colleagues for a fun and educational opportunity to test your ophthalmology knowledge and compete for the prestigious title of Super Tech!
Senior Instructor: Amy Jost, COMT, MED
Co-instructors: Rhonda Ullom, COMT, OSC; Veronica L Plessinger, COMT; Sergina M Flaherty, COMT, OSC; Susan Busch, COMT
This program has been accredited for 2 IJCAHPO CE credits.
Saturday, Oct. 19
Descriptive Interpretation of Retinal Images (Event #212)
8 to 9:15 a.m.
McCormick Place, S505
This session will explore common imaging modalities in retina practice, including fundus photography, fluorescein and ICG angiography, OCT and OCT angiography. Emphasis will be placed on the role of clinical staff in retinal imaging. At conclusion of the session, attendees will be able to describe common imaging modalities used in retina practice, recognize common retinal diseases on imaging, and understand the process for acquiring images that support the physician’s diagnostic process.
Senior Instructor: Darrin Landry, CRA, OCT-C
This program has been accredited for 1.25 IJCAHPO CE credits.
A Pupil Primer for Ophthalmic Technicians (Event #229)
9:45 to 11 a.m.
McCormick Place, S505
This didactic and interactive course for beginner to intermediate level participants will cover common problems with pupil afferent (relative afferent pupillary defect, light near dissociation, Argyll Robertson pupil) and efferent (anisocoria, dilated pupil aneurysm, Adie pupil, pharmacologic dilation). Participants will engage in a lively discussion about life- or vision-threatening pupil problems. Clinical and clinic-radiologic correlation (with CT and MR scans) will be shown. At the conclusion of this course, attendees will be able to define the key and differentiating features of critical pupil findings, describe life-threatening etiologies, and define the distinguishing clinical and radiographic features of these pupil disorders.
Senior Instructor: Andrew G Lee, MD
This program has been accredited for 1.25 IJCAHPO CE credits.
Precision in Practice: PACT Model for Practice Efficiency (Event #246)
11:30 a.m. to 12:45 p.m.
McCormick Place, S505
This course integrates the Specialty Care PACT Model with streamlining tactics that optimize practice efficiency and uphold ethical standards. At the conclusion of this course, attendees will be able to: apply Lean process management using the PACT Model, utilize Six Sigma components to optimize efficiency, and enhance overall productivity in a way that ensures appropriate and ethical patient care.
Senior Instructor: Matthew L Parker, PHD, COMT
This program has been accredited for 1.25 IJCAHPO CE credits.
Critical Care for Double Vision (Event #260)
2 to 3:15 p.m.
McCormick Place, S505
Explore the causes, symptoms, and treatment of acute onset diplopia (double vision). Review the necessary medial workup and clinical skills required for assisting the ophthalmologist during examination, treatment, and follow-up patient care. At the conclusion of this course, attendees will be able to: triage acute onset diplopia patients, obtain appropriate history, perform ophthalmic workup and sensorimotor testing, assist the MD in examination and follow-up care of the patient, and identify causes of acute onset diplopia.
Senior Instructor: Veronica L Plessinger, COMT
Co-instructors: Beth Jan Colon, BS, COT; Sergul A Erzurum MD
This program has been accredited for 1.25 IJCAHPO CE credits.
Ophthalmic Vitals: The Neuro Exam (Event #277)
3:45 to 5 p.m.
McCormick Place, S505
This comprehensive course combines the foundational principles of basic science with advanced clinical knowledge to enhance expertise in neuro-ophthalmic examinations. Participants will explore the 'why' behind each skill, sharpen critical thinking, and conduct thorough neuro-ophthalmic assessments encompassing CVFs, EOMs, and pupils. At the completion of this course, attendees will be able to: classify the cranial nerves associated with neuro-ophthalmic skills for a deeper neuroanatomical understanding, distinguish between III, IV, and VI nerve palsies, gaining insights into specific diagnostic implications, recognize the impact of neurological conditions on CVFs, EOMs, and pupils during eye examinations, synthesize fundamental sciences and clinical knowledge, fostering a deep understanding of the 'why' behind each neuro-ophthalmic skill, and apply this knowledge to improve history-taking and guide further diagnostic decisions.
Senior Instructor: Sarah R. Gill, COMT, OSC
Co-instructor: Anna B. Kiss, COMT, OSC
This program has been accredited for 1.25 IJCAHPO CE credits.
Sunday, Oct. 20
Mastering Manifest Refraction: Advanced Performance and Teaching Standards (Event #417)
8 to 9:15 a.m.
McCormick Place, S505
This advanced course covers retinoscopy and techniques for manifest refinement, the #1 skill required by most practices. This course allows the technician to take an advanced posture diagnostic refractometry and fundamental performance for generating a prescription for eyeglasses. Case studies and an introduction to root cause analysis will help explain why and when prescriptions require additional evaluation. Participants should have a basic understanding of clinical optics. At the conclusion of this course, attendees will be able to: describe basic principles of optics, turn basic steps into advanced strategic techniques in retinoscopy and manifest refinement, identify methods for manifest refinement training in an office setting, and understand guidelines for prescribing eyeglasses.
Senior Instructor: Matthew L Parker, PHD, COMT
Co-instructor: Rhonda Ullom, COMT, OSC
This program has been accredited for 1.25 IJCAHPO CE credits.
Glaucoma Tech-knowledge-y and the Fundamentals of Tonometry (Event #440)
9:45 to 11 a.m.
McCormick Place, S505
This integrated course covers the fundamental principles of tonometry along with the latest advancements in glaucoma diagnostics and patient care. Participants will gain a holistic understanding of intraocular pressure measurement and optimized patient workups for efficient and accurate diagnostics. The course blends theoretical knowledge with practical applications, utilizing interactive sessions and technology updates. At the conclusion of this course, attendees will be able to: measure intraocular pressure using various methods, demonstrate an understanding of best practices for applanation tonometry and standard operating procedures, identify key elements necessary for obtaining an accurate patient history and conducting a preliminary examination, obtain optimal diagnostic testing results in glaucoma patients, and effectively educate patients about glaucoma and promote compliance.
Senior Instructor: Bobbi E. Ballenberg, COMT, OSC
Co-instructor: Veronica Plessinger, BA, COMT
This program has been accredited for 1.25 IJCAHPO CE credits.
The Optics Universe: Master Ophthalmic Math and Lensometry (Event #457)
11:30 a.m. to 12:45 p.m.
McCormick Place, S505
Ideal for ophthalmic assistants and technicians, this course provides a comprehensive skill set for common mathematical formulas applied in optics, lensometry, and refractions. Participants will gain practical insights into ocular measurements and learn to navigate mathematical challenges. We’ll also develop proficiency in manual lensometry, covering various lens types and prism readings. At the conclusion of this course, attendees will be able to: (1) understand common ophthalmic mathematical formulas and recognize their connection with applications in optics, lensometry, refractions, and retinoscopy, (2) identify average ranges for ocular anatomical measurements and recognize the impact of "abnormal" measurements on patient care, and (3) develop proficiency in manual lensometry, including the measurement of prescriptions in existing eyeglasses and determining prism values.
Senior Instructor: Amy V Jost, COMT, MED
Co-instructor: Sergina M. Flaherty, COMT, OSC
This program has been accredited for 1.25 IJCAHPO CE credits.
Core Cornea Skills: Keratometry, Corneal Topography, and Keratoconus (Event #476)
2 to 3:15 p.m.
McCormick Place, S505
Participants will learn about corneal assessment, diagnostics, and hands-on care for keratoconus patients. At the conclusion of this course, attendees will be able to: (1) accurately assess keratometry and corneal topography, (2) calculate and apply corneal astigmatism in clinical scenarios, (3) recognize the impact of keratoconus on corneal layers and functions, (4) relate diagnostic results to treatment planning for keratoconus patients, and (5) enhance patient satisfaction through effective communication and post-operative care.
Senior Instructor: Latrice Jones-Bey, COT, MBA
Co-instructor: Amy V Jost, COMT, MED
This program has been accredited for 1.25 IJCAHPO CE credits.
Documentation Strategies for Minimizing Risk (Event #493)
3:45 to 5 p.m.
McCormick Place, S505
In this course, actual medical malpractice claims will be used to illustrate how incomplete documentation negatively impacted the defense. This course underscores the importance of accurate documentation and provides strategies for mitigating liability. At the completion of this course, attendees will be able to: (1) understand the role documentation plays in patient safety and defense of medical malpractice claims, (2) list the elements of documentation in diagnostic and preoperative care, informed consent, and intraoperative and postoperative care, and (3) employ risk management strategies that can mitigate liability.
Senior Instructor: Hans Bruhn
This program has been accredited for 1.25 IJCAHPO CE credits.
Monday, Oct. 21
Comprehensive Cataract Care: Optimizing the Technician Work up and Patient Education (Event #611)
8 to 9:15 a.m.
McCormick Place, S505
This course for beginner and intermediate technicians will explore the signs/symptoms of cataract types, development of chief complaint/HPI, components of the technician workup and physician exam, and pre-surgical testing in preparation for cataract surgery. Participants will learn about designing an effective patient education program for managing expectations, improving outcomes, and boosting satisfaction. At the conclusion of this course, attendees will be able to: (1) understand various cataract types and surgical techniques, (2) identify available intraocular lenses, and (3) develop an effective patient education program that mitigates malpractice risk.
Senior Instructor: Sergina M Flaherty, COMT, OSC
This program has been accredited for 1.25 IJCAHPO CE credits.
Precision Focus: Using the Right Language and the Jackson Cross (Event #627)
9:45 to 11 a.m.
McCormick Place, S505
Explore the synergy of effective communication and technical proficiency in refractive surgery. This course delves into impactful terminology for patient engagement and the precise utilization of the Jackson Cross Cylinder (JCC) for optimal refractive measurements. At the completion of this course, attendees will be able to: (1) apply strategic language in marketing, counseling, and patient education, (2) offer practical examples and recommendations for informed decision-making by patients, (3) learn the construction of the Jackson Cross Cylinder, (4) efficiently chase the red or white dot for precise measurements, (5) understand the advantages of having patients focus on a larger visible row, and (6) grasp end points for axis and cylinder power to refine refraction skills.
Senior Instructor: Jane T Shuman, COT, OSC, OCS
Co-instructor: Cory J Pickett, MSN, FNP-BC, CRNO
This program has been accredited for 1.25 IJCAHPO CE credits.
Advanced Ophthalmic Care: Retina and Neuro Assessment Mastery (Event #643)
11:30 a.m. to 12:45 p.m.
McCormick Place, S505
This course provides the latest updates on Retina advancements, a streamlined approach to clinical trials, and efficient workups for neuro patients that ensure comprehensive patient care. At the completion of this course, attendees will be able to: (1) navigate ongoing clinical trials for informed patient care, (2) tay current on the latest trends in Retina medicine and prepare for upcoming Retina technology, and (3) effectively assess neuro patients and conduct systematic workups to prevent oversights.
Senior Instructor: Martin Orozco, COMT, OSC
This program has been accredited for 1.25 IJCAHPO CE credits.
Charting Success: Ophthalmic Coding, Scribing, and Clinical Team Updates (Event #656)
2 to 3:15 p.m.
McCormick Place, S505
A focused course on essential coding, documentation, and patient care skills for excellence in professional ophthalmic roles. At the conclusion of this course, attendees will be able to: (1) review basic eye anatomy and abbreviations, (2) earn effective patient interview techniques for collecting comprehensive medical histories, (3) learn about the latest ophthalmic coding and billing trends, and (4) apply the “See, Look, and Feel” formula for capturing relevant History of Present Illness (HPI) data.
Senior Instructor: Amy V Jost, COMT, MED
Co-instructors: Heather Hambrick Dunn, COA, OCS, OCSR; Matthew M Baugh, COT, MHA, OCS, OCSR
This program has been accredited for 1.25 IJCAHPO CE credits.
Sponsored, in part, by grants from Alcon and Genentech.
This program is not sponsored by IJCAHPO; it is only reviewed for compliance with IJCAHPO standards and criteria and awarded continuing education credit accordingly; therefore, IJCAHPO cannot predict the effectiveness of the program or assure its quality in substance and presentation.