The American Society of Ocularists welcomes the involvement of the medical community. The participation of physicians, surgeons, and scientists allows for excellent exchange of information and concepts. Our goal is to both educate our referring communities and public, as well as continue to enhance our educational program for our members.

The following are areas that may be of interest to the MD or the PhD who wishes to interact with our Society.

Through the ASO Educational Program, courses are given bi-annually in the spring and fall. The fall meetings are in conjunction with the American Academy of Ophthalmology. We are always looking for course presenters. Our program requires 1-1 ½ hour courses with a 40-50 multiple choice question test. Testing is an essential part of our program, as our student members are seeking their graduate ASO diplomas. Topics can vary from the surgical, anatomical, biological, pharmaceutical, psychological, chemical, and artistic. We would encourage you to contact our Education Co-Chairs and/or Program Chairs for specifics regarding upcoming meetings. Your involvement would truly be welcomed.

We also offer shorter course agendas such as:

• Mini-Max Lectures: 10-15 minutes lectures on new and interesting concepts.
• Medical Advisory Seminar: 5-10 minute lectures in a morning seminar format followed by a luncheon. These topics, generally, are directed to the shared topics of the surgeon and Ocularist.
• Joint Scientific Session: facilitated by the Academy, however jointly designed by the ASO Vice President and the Oculoplastic Chair. These lectures are 7-10 minutes in length and are by invitation with the Academy’s approval.

Written material is always welcomed. The ASO is very proud of our Journal of Ophthalmic Prosthetics, published since 1972. Articles can be submitted to the Journal Editor. Specifics as to the printed material will be determined by the Editor and Publication Company.

Important numbers to contact for your inquiries

• ASO Executive Director:
  Toni Zappone (434) 973-4066
  Email
• ASO Education Chair:
  Heather Banfield (902) 468-2610
  banfield@ns.sympatico.ca
• ASO Journal Editor:
  Michael Hughes (703) 352-3520
  eye226@aol.com