10/31/2025

Vision Matters remains a constant work in progress—always evolving to better serve Rhode Island optometrists and friends of the RIOA. Judging by member feedback and our consistently strong open rates, it’s clear that we’ve found a rhythm that truly connects.

Our recent member survey reaffirmed that readers value Vision Matters as a timely, relevant, and engaging source of association news, while also expressing interest in being able to easily revisit past editions.

Starting in November, each week’s Vision Matters will build on the previous issue, creating a more seamless experience. At the end of each month—for example, with the November 28th edition—we’ll post a link to the complete monthly archive, allowing members to easily access all stories and updates in one place.

This update reflects our continued commitment to making Vision Matters a consistent, relevant, and ever-improving link between RIOA and its members.

HOW IT STARTED

HOW IT'S GOING

Kike Hernandez home run versus the Blue Jays World Series Game 5 - 10/29/2025

GAME 6 TONIGHT!

STANDARD REGISTRATION ENDS TODAY!

The GAME PLAN is set! Register Today!

The play is called "GAME DAY CE" and we're running it in Week 10 of the Regular Season.. Football fans still need not fret. 4 hours, first-class, timely (and in some cases REQUIRED) education will be concluded before kick-off.

November 9, 2025

8:00 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. Eastern

Remote Meeting - Zoom Platform

KICKOFF - 8:00 a.m. - Time Certain

Lecturer: Dr. Haley Perry

Artificial Intelligence Workshop: Advanced Practical Applications ** - In this advanced AI workshop, attendees will explore practical applications of AI tools to improve practice efficiency, from automating SOAP note generation to mining patient data for better decision-making. Participants will also learn how to implement AI for inventory management, marketing, and patient communication, while ensuring HIPAA compliance. Hands-on exercises will allow participants to create customized GPTs and develop AI-driven solutions for real-world practice challenges, providing actionable strategies to implement AI immediately. (101047-PM, 2 hours)

** Expect a hands on, interactive lecture.

 HALF-TIME



Lecturer: James Thimons, OD, FAAO

Patient Compliance: The Ultimate Goal In Glaucoma Therapy - An overview of Glaucoma therapy and the importance of patient compliance for successful patient outcomes. (94575-GL, 1 hour)

Neuro-Optometric Comprehensive Exam - A review of the tests required to review all of the cranial nerves as they apply to the eye and visual system. (97869-NO, 1 hour)

Holiday Cheer CE was dubbed long ago as the unofficial start of the holiday season— a familiar and enjoyable night that combines continuing education with good company. This year’s program will once again take place at The Trap Brew Pub & Grill, offering a relaxed and festive setting to close out the year together.

Perenniel Holiday CHEER CE attendees may have noticed that we’ve given the event image a small refresh to keep it warm and inviting while holding on to the tradition that helps make this gathering special.

It’s a comfortable, easy night of CE and connection (and cheer!) — a great way to wrap up the year with colleagues and friends.

Save the date and plan to join us on December 3rd!

SAVE THE DATES!

The Secret to Hiring ODs: Target Those Who Aren’t Looking



Studies show that passive job seekers – those who may be open to a new opportunity but aren’t actively searching job boards – make up 70-75% of the global workforce. Considering these candidates as part of your hiring strategy can help you attract top talent for your practice. But how do you reach potential candidates that aren’t actively looking for a job? Here are 3 ways practice owners are connecting with passive OD job seekers.

• Highlight what makes your opening different – Passive job seekers are often already employed and are familiar with the general expectations that come with a position as an optometrist. For a listing to catch their attention, it needs to demonstrate how their day-to-day on the job or their quality of life could improve. They are looking for features like advanced technology, strong support staff, attractive schedules. Don’t hesitate to point out what makes your practice or opening unique.

• Focus on career growth – For an already employed OD, making a lateral move may not be worth the effort it takes to transition to a new practice unless they see the position as a path toward career advancement. Show passive seekers how your opening provides the enrichment and opportunity to propel their careers forward by emphasizing mentorship, potential partnership opportunities, or room for growth in their chosen specialty.

• Use targeted tools for exposure – Once you’ve written a compelling job listing, the next challenge is finding a way to put it in front of passive job seekers. Take advantage of hiring tools that will help maximize your reach. For example, the AOAExcel Career Center offers add-ons such as the Spotlight e-newsletter which delivers job listings directly to the inboxes of over 23,000 passive job seekers and young ODs. Utilizing strategic hiring tools can help you reach passive seekers you wouldn’t otherwise have access to.

In a market where the most qualified candidates may not actively be looking for a new position, how and where you post your opening matters. AOAExcel Career Center experts are available to guide you in creating a compelling listing and devising a strategic hiring plan. Plus, AOA members receive 50% off on job listings. To learn more about the AOAExcel Career Center and how to get your listing in front of passive seekers, visit https://employers.aoa.org/.

Free Classified Advertising is a Member Benefit. Members of the RIOA can post an ad at no cost.

INTERESTED IN LEARNING ABOUT JOB / CAREER OPPORTUNITIES IN RHODE ISLAND? Contact the RIOA at 401-949-0433.

Often times by talking out your needs and wants we can hone in on a great fit for you.

Help Wanted: Passionate Optometrist to Join a Thriving Practice! Full-time or Part-time!

Join our private practice!

Are you an enthusiastic and patient-focused optometrist ready to make a real difference in people’s lives? Join our friendly, community-rooted eye care practice in Johnston, RI where compassion and precision go hand-in-hand.

Rhode Island offers a vibrant lifestyle that perfectly blends rich history, academic prestige, and urban excitement.

Home to the esteemed Brown University, the city boasts a lively cultural scene with world-class museums, theaters, and a diverse culinary landscape. This makes it an ideal place to build both a thriving career and a fulling personal life. 

ABOUT THE RIOA: We help optometrists practice optometry. 

The Rhode Island Optometric Association is the state affiliate of the American Optometric Association (AOA). A professional association representing Rhode Island optometrists, the RIOA works to ensure state-of-the-art vision and medical eye health care to the public through professional and personal development, continuing education programs and public policy monitoring and advocacy.

Vision Matters is a weekly email newsletter dedicated to communicating important Association-related news, industry updates and matters relating to practicing optometry in the Rhode Island healthcare landscape. Some will be longer than others; all will be informative. It is a members-only weekly communication.

Member submissions for publication in Vision Matters are welcomed and appreciated. Kindly email us.