VIEWPOINT

GOING FOR THE GOLD

OM OPENS A PRESENT EARLY AND SAYS GOODBYE TO A LONG-TIME COLUMN

JIM THOMAS
Editorial Director

What does Optometric Management have in common with Medicare, the Poppin’ Fresh Doughboy, the Grateful Dead and the movie “The Sound of Music”? We all turn 50 this year. OM can now apply for an AARP card.

In September’s OM, we will celebrate our golden anniversary with special coverage of optometry past, present and future, but we couldn’t help unwrapping one present early: a facelift. OM Art Director Evan Schmidt has redesigned the pages of OM to provide a reading experience that reflects the mission of our editors and contributors to deliver content that informs, inspires and, ultimately, helps you achieve your goals.

This month, the mission continues as we turn our attention to healthcare reform. Chief Optometric Editor Dr. Scot Morris begins by offering his Top 7 changes for adapting to reform (p. 2). In “Optometry’s Role in Healthcare Reform” (p. 16), Aaron Lech, O.D., F.A.A.O., filters out much of the complexity associated with healthcare reform and explains the changes in the U.S. healthcare system that will impact optometry. He also provides action steps that will help optometry continue to thrive.

The healthcare reform theme runs through this month’s departments and features, including the “Pop Quiz” (p. 56). If you’ve read “Viewpoint” this far, you’ll get at least one answer correct.

With the ICD-10 deadline looming, John Rumpakis, O.D., M.B.A., previews the coding road ahead in “ICD-10 Implementation” (p. 22). In addition to his analysis, Dr. Rumpakis also offers 10 steps to help smooth out the bumps on this road that will ultimately keep the United States healthcare system “current on the world stage.”

This year marks another anniversary — the 10th year of InfantSEE, the public health program overseen by Optometry Cares as part of the AOA Foundation. In his pediatric column (p. 32), Dr. Leonard Press provides an update on the program and a compelling reason to participate.

A FINAL “LESSON”

While celebrating events that mark our 50 years, one change deserves special acknowledgement. This month, Jack Runninger, O.D., writes his last monthly “Lessons Learned” column for Optometric Management (p. 52). For those who don’t know, Jack is a lecturer, author, humorist and 2006 inductee into the National Optometry Hall of Fame.

Talk about a run: Jack has written in some optometric publication every month for 41 years. During this time, his columns have received the praise of eyecare professionals from across the globe. He can adapt his wit to just about any situation, even saying goodbye. So I will just say, “Thank you for your contributions, advice and continuing friendship.” OM