Join the Paraoptometric Section

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Who are Paraoptometrics?

Paraoptometrics are allied health professionals who assist optometrists in providing their highest level of vision care to patients. Front office procedures, chair-side assisting, pre-testing, contact lens instruction, frame styling and fitting, and vision therapy are just a few of the many duties paraoptometrics perform while working directly with an optometrist.

What is the AOA Paraoptometric Section?

The American Optometric Association Paraoptometric Section is the nation’s largest organization serving the needs of optometric assistants and technicians. The purpose of the Paraoptometric Section is to offer continuing education opportunities, service recognition, professional development and promotion, and opportunities for its members to be involved with a national, professional association. The Paraoptometric Section promotes a health-team concept in the delivery of optometric care and enhances the identity of both the optometrist and the paraoptometric.

Who is Eligible for Membership in the AOA Paraoptometric Section?

Any ancillary, allied health professional sponsored by an AOA member optometrist is eligible for membership in the AOA Paraoptometric Section. Members of the Paraoptometric Section are also associate members of the American Optometric Association, the national organization representing the optometric profession.

Why Become a Member of the AOA Paraoptometric Section?

There are many benefits of membership in the AOA Paraoptometric Section. Section members receive:

Members can access an online continuing education program, offering six free hours each year through the AOA web site.
A certificate of membership, suitable to be framed and displayed in the office. A membership certificate will serve as a visible reminder of professional pride and involvement. To show continued commitment to service, members receive a gold renewal seal each year that can be added to the membership certificate, keeping it current.
The Section’s quarterly electronic publication, E-News, keeps members up-to-date on the many structure, including the Board of Trustees; provides contact information for affiliate and regional optometric associations; and explains membership benefits in detail.
Associate members also receive discounts on car rentals, package delivery service, and long distance telephone service. Members can apply for a “Gold” Mastercard, through an AOA sponsored program.
The AOA Paraoptometric Section offers recognition, education, and professional development for its members. Paraoptometrics from all areas of the profession belong to the Section, giving them a diverse forum for sharing information and exchanging ideas. The benefits offered through membership in the AOA Paraoptometric Section prepare paraoptometrics for tomorrow’s career challenges. A paraoptometric’s occupation is more than just a job. Together with the optometrist, paraoptometrics play a valuable role in providing quality eye care to each patient who enters the office or clinic. Paraoptometrics who make a career of their job strive to upgrade their skills and abilities in order to assist the doctor in providing the highest level of professional care possible. The AOA Paraoptometric Section helps its members achieve their career goals.

How Can I Join the AOA Paraoptometric Section?

Annual dues for membership in the Section (and associate membership in the AOA) is only $60.00 per year. Simply complete the membership application, have it signed by an AOA member optometrist, enclose the dues payment in U.S. funds only, and send it in today.

Membership applications may be sent to:

AOA Paraoptometric Section
243 N. Lindbergh Blvd., Floor 1
St. Louis, Missouri 63141-7881
(314) 991-4101 FAX