About the NYSOA
Progress in the past...a vision for the future...
The New York State Optometric Association was founded in 1895. It is dedicated to enhancing the vision care and health of the public and promoting the art and science of optometry.
For eleven decades, it has continued to benefit individual doctors of optometry, the profession and the quality of life of New Yorkers. NYSOA plays a significant role in how optometry is perceived by other professions, government agencies and the public at large.
...a diverse community of professionals...
NYSOA is a non-profit individual membership organization which works with local affiliated optometric associations throughout New York State and is affiliated with the American Optometric Association. Members practice in a variety of settings including their own private offices, in association with other optometrists and ophthalmologists, and in hospital clinics and health maintenance organizations. Membership is also open in special categories to full-time faculty member and optometry students.
NYSOA is governed by its membership through elected officers and a board of trustees comprised of local society presidents.
...representation in the government and the media...
NYSOA is headquartered within walking distance of the New York State Capitol and government center and keeps a close eye on key decision-making and government regulatory operations which affect optometrists in New York State. Its staff works closely with legislators and officials in the State Education Department, Health Department, Department of Social Services, Insurance Department, Department of Motor Vehicles and numerous other agencies and departments.
NYSOA retains an outstanding legal counsel with a special expertise in legal area affecting the association and optometric association.
NYSOA members benefit from the associations community relations and public service efforts.
...dedication to public service...
Through extensive public relations and media programs, awareness of the profession and its contributions to health care is promoted.
Special projects, such as Save Your Vision Week, are promoted through the media, health organizations and other professional associations.
NYSOA serves as a resource to the community, the media and consumers. It regularly provides educational literature and films to libraries, schools and other organizations.
The association servers as a spokesman in relations with the media in New York State, and as a clearinghouse for media information concerning optometry and vision care.
NYSOA provides consumer counseling on a wide range of vision-related concerns and is an information resource for community and educational leaders.
...improving your practice...
NYSOA offers a great variety of direct services including practice management seminars and continuing education courses which can enhance a member's professionalism and practice.
Publications covering topics and issues important to the practitioner are available. Prospectus, the journal of the New York State Optometric Association, is an ideal forum for exchanges of ideas and keeping members informed of developments in the profession as well as major activities.
NYSOA provides members special discounted insurance at group rates. In addition to AOA insurance (life, major medical, hospital income protection, accidental death and dismemberment and professional liability), the state association has its own heath and major medical policies.
NYSOA provides referral services, including a toll free number for consumers and maintains an updated list of specialties.
...giving you a voice in state and national associations close to home...
Located throughout New York State, the local society is a crucial element in the success of the NYSOA and AOA.
Local societies offer opportunities for practitioner to gather and share information, discuss relevant concerns and pursue common interests. Monthly meetings and special seminars provide for professional exchanges including policy on local, state and national issues.
In their respective communities, local societies conduct a variety of activities including public relations projects and community screening programs at health fairs, senior citizen centers and schools.
It is through the local society that practitioner become members of the state and national associations. And it is through the local societies that individuals can build a strong, effective NYSOA and assure a bright future for optometry in New York State.
