Why Am I a Member of the OOA?
Dr. Alex Andrich of North Royalton, 1995 graduate: "I am a member of the Ohio Optometric Association because there is strength in numbers. All optometrists practicing in all modes of optometry need to stick together to face the challenges ahead. With unity there is tremendous strength. Our profession is unique in that we are the only professionals that truly understand "vision" the dominant human sense. Joining a professional organization is more than just paying dues. Membership should allow an optometrist to feel they have a stake in the ownership of their profession and help direct optometry forward. Not being a member means that you will allow someone else to control the profession."
Dr. John E. Beigel of Sidney, 1989 graduate: "Membership in the OOA and AOA allows OD's to continue to provide all patients' the highest level of clinical care possible. We can educate ourselves to the height of our profession, but if we cannot legally write a prescription or order a simple blood test we ultimately lose the ability to manage our patients' care. Legislative battles will continue to be fought, regardless of the issue. And the monies generated to pay those who watch over our profession is a small price to pay for our patient's. We have all donated to lesser causes, be it the local library book fair or the school program. Without a doubt, the return on the investment, in membership to our profession, has been paid back many times over."
Dr. Mile Brujic of Bowling Green, 2002 graduate: "It is our professional responsibility to be members of the OOA. When we take time to reflect on the advances in optometry, it is important to remember that it wouldn't be possible without the OOA. The diagnostic and therapeutic agents that we use are constant reminders that membership is not an option, but necessary for optometry's scope of practice to stay current."
Dr. Christina Fox of Bucyrus, 2002 graduate: "Membership in the OOA allows me to be involved in the future of my profession. I have a voice in the level of patient care we provide in Ohio. I think it is imperative to be involved in Realeyes, InfantSEE, and the Key Optometrist programs."
Dr. Rich Marquardt of Mansfield, 1997 graduate:
"Membership dues for the Ohio Optometric Association: $545
Membership dues for the American Optometric Association: $688
Practicing optometry the way you've always dreamed...priceless!"
Dr. Tom Quinn of Athens, 1979 graduate: "Membership in the Ohio Optometric Association allows me to participate in molding how I practice my profession. The OOA is a key player in working with our state legislature to formulate the rules and regulations that govern optometry. I want to have a voice in how I do what I do every day. The OOA is the perfect choir to coordinate all of us to sing in harmony as we advance our profession."Dr. Justin Wehr of Cambridge, 1999 graduate: "I am an AOA, OOA and Zone member for three main reasons. First is the social aspect. I always look forward to the fellowship and camaraderie at any optometric function. Second, there is learning. I love to learn, whether it is continuing education, practice management or life in general. Third, I want to support the profession that allows me to do what I do. I do this financially and through service."
Dr. Jean Wrightnour of Ashtabula, 1988 graduate: "I did my optometry training at UC Berkeley but was happy to come home to Northeast Ohio to practice because Ohio's therapeutic laws were more progressive than those in California. By coming here to live and work, I am able to practice to a fuller extent of my degree than if I had stayed in California. I am reaping the rewards of the hard work of OOA members who preceded me. I've been impressed with our state organization and am happy now to give back."
Dr. LaMar Zigler of Columbus, 1981 graduate: "Membership in the OOA, AOA, and your local society is critical for our profession to prosper and continue to move forward with scope of practice expansion, public awareness of optometry, and third-party parity. Being a profession that is small in number and political dollars has not stopped us from achieving all of our accomplishments over the years. This is because the Association has focused our efforts both politically and publicly, allowing us to reach goals that were dreams just a few years ago. I joined in order to make a difference in my chosen career, and I have enjoyed the camaraderie of my fellow ODs. I encourage all ODs to join in the work and the lifelong fellowship that accompanies membership."