World Optometry Day is celebrated each year on March 23rd to recognize the important role of optometrists and vision care providers in healthcare. This day also serves as a dedicated opportunity to raise awareness about the importance of eye care for all ages.
 

Optometrists are very important to our healthcare system, because they specialize in the treatment of eye disease and vision disorders. As part of the treatment of these vision disorders, they can prescribe corrective lenses, recommend or provide vision therapy options, and work with their patients to manage the progression of eye disease, including glaucoma, cataracts, and macular degeneration. Optometrists play a vital role in managing a patient’s overall health by detecting and treating these eye conditions, which can prevent or slow the progression of vision loss and improve the long-term quality of life for their patients.
 

The first World Optometry Day was celebrated in 1992 by the International Optometric and Optical League (IOOL), which is now known as the World Council of Optometry (WCO). The original goal of this event was to raise awareness about the importance of eye care and to promote the role of optometry in providing access to eye care services around the world. Each year, World Optometry Day has a specific theme that focuses on a different aspect of eye care. These overarching themes not only highlight the importance of making eye care accessible to everyone, but help bring awareness to optometry as a career choice for those interested in healthcare.
 

Another goal for World Optometry Day is to raise awareness about the importance of proactive eye care. This includes educating the public about the importance of annual eye exams, which can detect eye diseases and conditions before they become larger problems. This day also highlights the importance of providing access to eye care services, particularly in developing countries where eye care is not always readily available. Many optometrists lend their skills to these areas through programs like SEE International, VOSH International, and other programs where comprehensive eye care services can be accessible to all.
 

In addition to raising awareness about eye health and proactive eye care, World Optometry Day also celebrates the achievements of optometrists by recognizing the research and technology innovations in the field of optometry. Many optometry organizations also use this day as an opportunity to remind current and new patients about the importance of eye health. By promoting eye health and access to eye care services, World Optometry Day plays an important role in improving the quality of life for individuals and communities around the world.
 

Have you scheduled your annual eye exam? It’s the perfect time to get your appointment on the calendar, so call us today!