2025 Tech Learning Objectives
2025 Tech Course Descriptions & Learning Objectives
#1 Clinical Refraction: Tips & Tricks and Case Studies | Ellie Bessarab, MHA, COT, NCLE-C, OSC | Portland Community College
This course is a review of the basic refraction techniques, and tips and tricks to improve the accuracy of the results. It covers things to pay attention to, and goes over case studies that address common errors.
- Understand the basic refraction techniques.
- Understand the common technician errors and things to pay attention to.
- Understand the troubleshooting that needs to happen if the patient is not happy with their newly filled glasses prescription.
#2 Understanding Diabetic Retinopathy Care: Exploring Today’s Treatments and Tomorrow’s Technologies | Elliot Cherkas, MD | Casey Eye Institute
In this course, we will explore the latest treatment options for diabetic retinopathy, from traditional methods to groundbreaking innovations in care. Attendees will learn about the role of advanced technologies such as retinal imaging, laser therapies, and injectable treatments, as well as the emerging potential of artificial intelligence and telemedicine in early detection and personalized treatment strategies. Through this session, participants will gain valuable insights into how these advancements are revolutionizing patient outcomes and shaping the future of diabetic eye care.
- Understand the current treatment options for diabetic retinopathy, including laser therapies, intravitreal injections, and vitrectomy, and their respective indications and outcomes.
- Explore advanced technologies used in diabetic retinopathy management, such as retinal imaging, optical coherence tomography (OCT), and artificial intelligence tools for early detection and diagnosis.
- Evaluate the role of personalized treatment strategies in managing diabetic retinopathy, incorporating patient-specific factors, disease progression, and technological advancements in care.
- Identify emerging trends and innovations in diabetic retinopathy care, including the potential applications of gene therapy, stem cell treatments, and next-generation drug delivery systems.
#3 Let There be Light: Case Studies on Light Adjustable Lenses | Sabrina Bulas, MD | Casey Eye Institute
Overview of the basic technology and use of the light adjustable lens (LAL) as well as a brief presentation of several cases utilizing the LAL.
- Describe the basic indications, benefits, and drawbacks of the light adjustable lens.
- Understand the basic pre- and post-operative care required for light adjustable lenses.
- Appreciate the use of light adjustable lenses in improving refractive outcomes in patients with keratoconus, RK, or prior LASIK/PRK.
#4 Glaucoma Types & Treatment Options | Meagan Shinbashi, MD | Casey Eye Institute
What are the different glaucoma types and treatment options, and when should I do what? This course will cover the various types of glaucoma and the various treatment options for them.
- Understand the pathophysiology of different types of glaucoma and how they differ.
- Develop a framework for treatment algorithms and when to escalate care.
- Identify good surgical candidates vs not.
#5 Exploring OCT-A: Revolutionizing Vascular Imaging in Ophthalmology | Denice Barsness, CRA, COMT, ROUB, CDOS | EyeEducateU.com
Optical Coherence Tomography Angiography (OCT-A) is a non-invasive imaging technique that allows detailed visualization of blood flow in the retina and other ocular structures. It combines the high-resolution imaging capabilities of Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT) with angiographic information, providing real-time, three-dimensional maps of blood vessels in the eye. OCT-A helps to detect and monitor various retinal and vascular conditions, such as diabetic retinopathy, macular degeneration, and retinal vein occlusions, without the need for dye injection, making it a safer and more efficient alternative to traditional fluorescein angiography. This course will provide an updated overview to the OAO presentation given in 2020. Case studies will be used to illustrate common applications of OCT-A.
- Upon completion of this educational presentation the participant should be better able to describe the fundamental differences between OCT and OCT-A.
- Upon completion of this educational presentation the participant should be able to list the four “slabs” or specific layers of the retina or other ocular structures that are isolated and visualized separately during the imaging process.
- Upon completion of this educational presentation the participant should be able to list four common applications of OCT-A in ophthalmology.
#6 Treatment Options for Myopia Progression | Apoorva Chowdhary, MD | Casey Eye Institute
This course will provide an overview of myopia, including its definition, risk factors, and the latest pharmaceutical and optometric interventions for managing its progression. With the growing prevalence of myopia worldwide, this topic is of increasing importance in the daily practice of optometric technicians.
- Define Myopia.
- Describe risk factors for Myopia Progression.
- Describe pharmaceutical interventions for Myopia Treatment.
- Describe optometric interventions for Myopia Treatment.
- Understand upcoming Developments in Myopia Treatment.
#7 All About the Cornea | Anand Rajesh, MD | Casey Eye Institute
In this talk we will discuss the management of common corneal diseases including discussion about topics such as cross-linking, laser therapies, corneal transplants, artificial corneas and how pachymetry and tomography are useful for management.
- Be able to describe the basics of cross-linking, corneal transplants, PTK, K-Pro.
- Explain why pachymetry and tomography is an essential tool for managing corneal diseases.
- Understand common corneal diseases.
#8 Light vs Sound: Tips for Performing Accurate Axial Eye Length Biometry | Denice Barsness, CRA, COMT, ROUB, CDOS | EyeEducateU.com
This comprehensive course is designed for eye care professionals seeking to enhance their skills in performing accurate axial eye length (AXL) biometry, a critical measurement in the assessment of refractive conditions and intraocular lens (IOL) selection. With a focus on both the theoretical principles and practical techniques, this course delves into the advanced use of light and sound technologies to ensure precise axial length measurements. Participants will explore the various biometry methods, including optical and ultrasound-based techniques, and gain practical tips for improving accuracy and reliability.
- Upon completion of this presentation the student should be able to describe the fundamental differences between acoustical biometry and OCB light-based biometry.
- Upon completion of this presentation the student will have an increased understanding of the role of corneal measurements, including corneal topography, in calculating for advanced intraocular lenses (IOLs)
- Upon completion of this presentation the student should be able to name three vital components to successful axial eye length measurements in IOL calculations.
#9 Neuro-Ophthalmology | Victoria Cegielski, MD | Casey Eye Institute
Understanding the basics of neuro-ophthalmology testing, including the pupil examination, extraocular movements, color vision, and visual fields.
- Know how to perform an accurate pupillary examination and understand what pupil abnormalities could indicate.
- Know how to perform an accurate extraocular examination and understand where movement defects could localize to pathology.
- Know how to perform accurate color vision testing and understand what color deficits could indicate.
- Understand the basics of visual field testing.
#10 Managing Dry Eye Disease and Digital Fatigue | Abhimanyu Ahuja, MD | Casey Eye Institute
This course will cover the essentials of Dry Eye Disease (DED), including an overview of its common signs, diagnostic tools, and treatment options. Emphasis will be placed on the role of inflammation in DED, the risk factors and triggers that exacerbate the condition, and the latest management strategies. A key component of this course is patient education, including lifestyle modifications that can reduce symptoms and improve quality of life.
Prolonged screen use has become a significant source of discomfort for many patients. This course will also provide an exploration of digital fatigue and its impact on eye health, focusing on effective strategies for managing this growing concern. Participants will learn to recognize the signs and symptoms of digital fatigue, develop practical approaches to mitigate its effects, and acquire the tools to educate patients on managing their symptoms.
- Understand the basics of Dry Eye Disease (DED).
- Identify common signs and symptoms of DED and review diagnostic tools and techniques.
- Explore underlying causes and risk factors of DED.
- Discuss treatment and management strategies of DED.
- Address the role of inflammation in DED.
- Recognize Risk Factors and Triggers of DED.
- Identify the signs and symptoms of digital fatigue and identify key strategies to mitigate digital fatigue.
- Develop strategies to educate patients about managing digital fatigue.
#11 Technology Advancements for Low Vision Aids | David Davis, MD | Portland Community College
Will discuss the present and new advances of low vision aids for the patients with low vision.
- Understand the problems people with low vision have.
- Be knowledgeable about the common low vision aids available.
- Understand the new advances in the technology of low vision aids.
#12 Triage & Trauma | Deion Sims, MD | Casey Eye Institute
We will review cases and discuss how to triage ophthalmic emergencies.
- Understand the key principles of triage.
- Differentiate between urgent and non-urgent cases.
- Identify vision and life-threatening emergencies.
#13 My Patient Has Tearing. What The COT Needs To Know | Francisco Castillo, MD | EyeHealth Northwest
Review of common presentations of conditions causing tearing, and what the initial workup by the ophthalmic technician should be. Review of different testing modalities, and anticipated results per condition.
- Understand the anatomy of the nasolacrimal system.
- Understand the common causes of tearing.
- Understand what the initial workup in clinic should be for the tearing patient.