Best Optometry Conferences in 2023/2024 (New)

January 31, 2024

If you’re looking to get ahead in the optometry field, there’s no better way to do it than by attending a conference. Here are the top optometry conferences that are worth your time and money.

When you know better, you do better.

As an optometrist, you have a duty to stay current with the latest research and techniques in the field. Attending optometry conferences is a great way to do this, as well as to network with other professionals in the industry.

You’ll be able to learn about new treatments and procedures that can help your patients see better. You might also learn about new technologies that can make it easier for you to treat them.

But we also understand how hard it can be to find time to attend conferences. After all, you have patients who need care. That’s why we’ve curated some of the best conferences for optometrists taking place in 2023.

Before including an event on our list, our experts agree that:

A good conference should be informative, but also fun and engaging. It should have a variety of sessions that appeal to different interests and learning styles. We want to make sure that when you attend any of these conferences, you would learn new things while also having a great time.

With that in mind, let’s get started!

Must-Attend Optometry Conferences of 2023

Optometry Conferences; February 2023

Opticians Association Of America’s (OAA) State Leadership Conference

Name and date of conference: Opticians Association of America’s (OAA) State Leadership Conference – “Journey to Discovery,” February 9-11, 2023.

Designed to inspire and foster relationships between opticianry leaders and stakeholders, the 2023’s edition of OAA state leadership conference would provide attendees with the latest in opticianry.

Location of conference: Asheville, North Carolina.

Keynote speakers and highlights of the conference’s program:

The conference features engaging seminars, breakout sessions and group events to discuss a wide range of topics.
Provision of meals.
Receptions lined up for the evening of Thursday and Friday.
You can’t earn CE by attending this event.
Attending with a guest is allowed.
Pay close attention: you could see a whole bunch of Asheville wildlife during this event.

Registration information and costs:

Members: $340.
Non-Members: $390.
Registration onsite: $400.
Reception-only (for guests): $100

Please Note:

When you cancel after registration, you can get a 50% refund on conference registration.

Tips for getting the most out of attending this conference:

Plan your schedule in advance.
Make arrangements for transportation. The Asheville Regional Airports and hotel do not provide shuttle services.
Take note of any new research or techniques presented, and consider how they can be applied to your practice.

International Sports Vision Association (ISVA) Annual Conference

Name and date of conference: ISVA Annual Conference – “Unlocking athletic Potential,” February 9-11, 2023.

Location of conference: Frisco, Texas

Keynote speakers and highlights of the conference’s program:

Keynote speakers include Drs Paul Brewer, Alireza Somji, Kristine Dalton, etc.
16 hours of COPE approved education.
Workshops and lectures will be given by leading experts in the field, providing attendees with the most current and informative lectures on topics including Establishing a Sports Vision Specialty, Optometric Management of Concussion in Athletes, Contact Lens Considerations in Athletes, etc.
Welcome reception, exhibition, and lots more.

Tips for getting the most out of attending this conference:

Research the conference schedule and identify the sessions that align with your interests and goals and make sure to attend them.
Visit the exhibit hall and explore the latest products and services in the industry. Make sure to take note of any new technology or equipment that could benefit your practice.
Take the opportunity to attend the sessions that are eligible for continuing education credits and keep track of your credits.
Attend the reception and any other networking events to make the most of your experience.

Heart Of America Eye Care Congress (HOAECC)

Name and date of conference: 62nd Annual Heart of America Eye Care Congress, February 10-12, 2023.

Grounded on three pillars – Education, Innovation, and Camaraderie, the 62nd annual Heart of America Eye Care Congress is a place where you can get caught up on industry knowledge. And with 800+ optometrists and more than 350 paraoptometrics expected, it surely offers attendees a great opportunity to meet some new people, and have a great time doing it.

Location of conference: Kansas City, Missouri.

Keynote speakers and highlights of the conference’s program:

Keynote speakers include Drs Bita Asghari, Marc Bloomenstein, Marie Bodack, Michael Chaglasian, Anthony DeWilde, Julie Helmus, etc.
Top speakers in the industry will discuss important topics in optometry from systemic disease, posterior segment to glaucoma and even contact lenses—all in one place!
Take this opportunity to further your career with up to 17 hours of continuing education.
The conference features the “HOAECC Poster Session.” An avenue to learn from educational posters from providers nationwide.
An exhibit hall with the latest innovations in the profession.

Tips for getting the most out of attending this conference:

Get the most out of your presentation by attending related sessions.
Ask questions. As with any conference, you’ll learn a lot by listening to others’ experiences with different treatments and procedures. But if you want to get ahead of the curve, ask questions when the opportunity presents itself.
Take notes during lectures and presentations so that you can review them later on if needed.
Arrive early. Don’t wait until the last minute to get to the conference center.
Bring business cards and brochures. The Heart of America Eye Care Congress is expected to have over 1,000 attendees, so it’s important that you stand out as a professional by handing out business cards and brochures about your practice or products.

IDOC The Connection 2023

Name and date of conference: IDOC The Connection 2023 – “Explore the possibilities,” February 16-19, 2023.

IDOC knows all about the value of team building in the business world. With face-to-face meetings, educational courses, and more at The Connection 2023, practitioners will be able to keep up with the latest developments in the field, and network with experts.

Location of conference: Orlando, Florida

Keynote speakers and highlights of the conference’s program:

Keynote speakers: Alison Levine and Chris Goede.
Welcome reception, round tables, sunrise yoga, block party, practice check in, complimentary childcare, and lots more.
Educational courses available for every member of staff at your practice. So, they can expand their knowledge and skills at this conference.
The Connection 2023 will feature an expanded “Sponsor Marketplace” of 40+ vendor partners.

Registration information:

Tips for getting the most out of attending this conference:

If you’re a practice owner, the practice check-in is an opportunity to have Practice Development Managers provide insights to help grow your business.

Attend roundtables to get motivated, learn new things and meet people who do the same work as you. By participating in these sessions, you can gain new insights to practice growth.

Optometry Conferences; March 2023

SECO International Conference

Name and date of conference: SECO – “Where Sight Meets Vision”; March 1-5 2023.

Over the last 100 years, this annual conference has attracted thousands of eyecare professionals from all over the world to Atlanta, GA. The purpose of this conference is to provide attendees with opportunities to gain new information, form lasting connections, and explore the city while also having opportunities to earn continuing education credits.

Location of conference: Atlanta, Georgia

Keynote speakers and highlights of the conference’s program:

Keynote speakers: Paul C. Ajamian, Janet L. Alspaugh, Jill Autry, and more.
Virtual congress for those that can make it in-person.
250+ CE sessions.
Side attractions include: welcome party, 100th anniversary celebrations, optometry marketplace, night party, and lots more.

Registration information and costs:

Intending participants can head over to the official registration web page for more information and steps to register.

Tips for getting the most out of attending this conference:

Do well to attend the newly introduced SECO University’s NAO LIVE CE sessions.
Qualify for a discount when you register early before January 18, 2023.

American Glaucoma Society (AGS) Meeting

Name and date of conference: AGS Annual Meeting, March 2-5 2023.

Looking to learn more about glaucoma? Network with peers, discover new ways to grow and chit-chat, then yes, this conference is a must attend.

Location of conference: Austin, Texas

Keynote speakers and highlights of the conference’s program:

Keynote speakers: Drs Pradeep Y Ramulu (AGS Lecturer), Jody R Piltz-Seymour (Surgery Day Lecture), Joshua D Stein (Clinician Scientist Lecture) and more.
GS Meeting COVID Policy.
An option to attend virtually.
Attendees could earn CME hours.

Tips for getting the most out of attending this conference:

Vision Expo East 2023

Name and date of conference: Vision Expo East 2023, March 16-19 2023.

Vision Expo East is an ideal place for people who want to learn more about eye care or attend workshops on various topics related to optometry. It is also a great place for those who are interested in meeting other professionals from around the world and learning from their experiences.

Location of conference: New York City, New York

Keynote speakers and highlights of the conference’s program:

Keynote speakers: The congress will feature 200 sessions, 300 hours and 100 speakers.
Now by Vision Expo. A prestigious showcase of the latest in eyewear, lenses and lens technology. Also features an award ceremony to recognize outstanding products.
An improved “unified show floor.”
Panels and presentation,

Registration information and costs:

Individual and group Doctors, OptiCon/Allied Health, other Professionals, and students can register.

Tips for getting the most out of attending this conference:

Ensure you visit “The OptiCon Hub” for business and fun. Also, representatives from the American Board of Opticianry and National Contact Lens Examiners (ABO-NCLE), Opticians Association of America (OAA), National Federation of Opticianry Schools (NFOS), Contact Lens Society of America (CLSA) and vendors would be on hand to provide some useful resources.

Optometry Conferences; April 2023

2023 Professional Eye Care Associates of America’s (PECA) Annual Meeting

Name and date of conference: PECAA Annual Meeting, April 20-22, 2023.

This is a springtime event held each year and attended by PECAA members from across the nation. It’s a great chance to learn about the business side of the practice, network with like-minded people, and create a memorable experience.

Location of conference: Nashville, Tennessee

Keynote speakers and highlights of the conference’s program:

You will hear from dynamic keynote speakers who will deliver lectures on topics relating to Practice management and clinical practice for doctors.
Staff development workshops, breakout sessions, vendor exhibition hall, and evening events.

Registration information and costs:

PECAA offers an introductory rate of $199/month for the first 12 months. After your first year, the membership fee increases to $279/month. However you can receive a $600 travel rebate, if you attend a PECAA Annual Meeting in your first year of membership.

Tips for getting the most out of attending this conference:

Connect and network with other PECAA members of independent eye care professionals.

The Association for Research in Vision and Ophthalmology (ARVO) Annual Meeting 2023

Name and date of conference: The Association for Research in Vision and Ophthalmology Annual Meeting, April 20-22, 2023.

Location of conference: New Orleans, Louisiana

Keynote speakers and highlights of the conference’s program:

Keynote speakers: Jennifer Lippincott-Schwartz and Ivan R. Schwab.
Special programs include symposia, ARVO/Alcon Keynote series, Champalimaud award lecture, Cross-sectional group sessions, Paper sessions, Poster sessions, Education courses, etc.
Exhibitions as well as social and networking events.
In-person only.

Registration information and costs:

Tips for getting the most out of attending this conference:

Study up on key topics beforehand so that you feel comfortable joining conversations with fellow attendees at networking events or breakout sessions.
Take advantage of the pre-annual meeting events.

College of Optometrists In Vision Development (COVD) Annual Meeting 2023

Name and date of conference: College of Optometrists In Vision Development (COVD) Annual Meeting, April 25-29, 2023.

Location of conference: Toronto, Canada

Keynote speakers and highlights of the conference’s program:

Keynote speakers: Curtis R. Baxstrom, Toni Bristol, Joanna Carter, etc.
Educational Courses include: Visual motion and vestibular input are the foundational keys for vision, How to have a successful practice throughout your career, How to successfully prepare for a deposition: from examination to courtroom, Optometric treatment of patients with acquired brain injury and brain filtering problems.
Exhibition, Networking, and CE opportunities available

Registration information and costs:

Pre-meeting only

Member – $835.
Non-Member – $1019.
Student/Resident – $150.

Annual meeting only

Member – $893.
Non-member – $1050.
Students/Residents – $175.

Pre-meeting & Annual meeting

Member – $1471.
Non-Member Pricing – $1778.
Student/Resident – $325.

Continuing education only (no food and beverage)

Member – $450.
Non-Member – $525.
Student/Resident – N/A.

Tips for getting the most out of attending this conference:

Set goals for yourself before you attend the conference. This will help you stay focused on what you want to get out of the event.
Bring business cards with you to hand out to people who ask questions or want more information about what you’re doing at your practice or organization.

Optometry Conferences; May 2023

American Society Of Cataract And Refractive Surgery (ASCRS) Annual Meeting

Name and date of conference: American Society Of Cataract And Refractive Surgery (ASCRS) Annual Meeting, May 5-8, 2023.

The agenda for this gathering centers on various areas of expertise that are pertinent to ASCRS and ASOA members. Included are symposia, lectures, workshops, sessions, courses, and skills transfer labs that are tailored to assist anterior segment surgeons, practice managers, administrators, technicians, and nurses to enhance both their clinical and administrative abilities.

Location of conference: San Diego, California

Keynote speakers and highlights of the conference’s program:

The conference features 3 programs specifically designed for 1. Surgeons; 2. Practice Owners; 3. Nurses, Technicians, and other allied professionals.

Tips for getting the most out of attending this conference:

Prepare yourself for the event by reading about it beforehand.
Make sure you register for the appropriate program relevant to you.
Get there early so that you can network with other attendees before the event starts.

Optometry Conferences; June 2023

Optometry’s Meeting® 2023

Name and date of conference: AOA Optometry’s Meeting® 2023, June 21-24, 2023.

Optometry’s Meeting® is a gathering of vision care professionals, including students, and faculty, to come together and plan the future of eye health and vision care. The 2023 edition of the conference provides an opportunity for attendees to network with their peers, explore the latest technology, and participate in exceptional continuing education over four days. It serves as a platform for current leaders in the field to connect with the leaders of tomorrow.

Location of conference: Washington, D.C.

Keynote speakers and highlights of the conference’s program:

The conference aims to provide a comprehensive and diverse learning experience for the attendees.
Over 136 courses with 190 hours of credits available. Credit options including CEE/TQ, AOA, CPC and COPE.
The AOA Experience, Opening and Alumni reception, Wellbeing events, Rally, and Affiliate connections and lots more.

Registration information and costs:

For more information visit the official website.

Tips for getting the most out of attending this conference:

Make the most of the networking opportunities provided at the conference such as receptions, rallies, breakouts, etc.
Take advantage of the continuing education opportunities provided at the conference and keep track of the sessions you attend.
Take advantage of the hands-on demonstrations and product trials offered. Also, don’t be afraid to ask questions and gather information from exhibitors.

Optometry Conferences; July 2023

American Society of Retina Specialists (ASRS) 2023 Annual Meeting

Name and date of conference: 41st American Society of Retina Specialists Annual Meeting, July 26-August 1, 2023.

The ASRS conference aims to address the professional practice gaps of its members by providing CME activities that focus on vitreoretinal diseases, surgery, and practice management, to help enhance the competence of its participants in these fields.

Location of conference: Seattle, Washington

Keynote speakers and highlights of the conference’s program:

In addition to showcasing the latest advancements in eye care and eyewear, the 2023 program will also feature a robust scientific program, including presentations of scientific papers and opportunities for attendees to engage with experts through Q&A sessions.

Registration information and costs:

More details on registration fees can be found on the website of ASRS.

Tips for getting the most out of attending this conference:

Before the meeting, review the schedule of events and plan out which sessions and presentations you want to attend.
ASRS Annual Meeting is a great opportunity to connect with other professionals in the field of vitreoretinal diseases, surgery, and practice. So, if that’s your speciality, take the time to introduce yourself and exchange contact information with other attendees.
Make sure to take advantage of CME courses and any demos or hands-on opportunities.
There will be a lot of information presented at the meeting, so be sure to take notes on the most important points.

Optometry Conferences; September 2023

O=MEGA23/World Congress Of Optometry

Name and date of conference: 4th World Congress of Optometry (O=MEGA23), September 8-10, 2023.

Australia’s premier event for eye care and eyewear, this event is set to bring an unparalleled international experience. Don’t miss out on this exciting opportunity to learn and network with the best in the industry.

Location of conference: Melbourne, Australia.

Keynote speakers and highlights of the conference’s program:

Keynote speakers: James S Wolffsohn and Susan Cotter
Clinical conference.
Masterclasses.
Trade fair.
Tours.

Registration information and costs:

More details on registration fees.

Tips for getting the most out of attending this conference:

Use the opportunity to earn certification credits.

Vision Expo West 2023

Name and date of conference: Vision Expo West 2023, September 27-30, 2023

Attendees will have access to the latest advancements in eye care technology, eyewear fashion trends, and education from industry leaders. The program will provide an opportunity to connect with other professionals in the field, network with leading manufacturers and suppliers, and discover new business opportunities. Whether you’re a student, clinician, or industry professional, the Vision Expo West has something for everyone, making it the ultimate event for anyone in the ophthalmic field.

Location of conference: Las Vegas, Nevada.

Keynote speakers and highlights of the conference’s program:

Expo hall featuring Lens, Medical Technology, and Eyewear Neighborhoods.
The Vision Expo OPTImum Program. An exclusive opportunity for key decision-makers, buyers, and top-level management in the eye care industry. This program is specifically tailored to those with purchasing power in the ophthalmic field, such as lab owners, directors, and other professionals.

Registration information and costs:

Pre-registration to Vision Expo West 2023 is now open. Enter your details to get notified when registration opens.

Tips for getting the most out of attending this conference:

Take advantage of the exhibit hall: The exhibit hall is a great place to learn about new products and services that can help your practice. Make sure to visit the vendors and take advantage of any demos or hands-on opportunities.

CE Opportunity. Vision Expo West 2023 offers a wide range of education courses covering various topics. Attend the ones that align with your interest or professional development goals.

Wrapping Up

If you’re looking to make a difference in the field of optometry or take your practice to new heights, you might consider attending an industry conference. Optometry’s conferences are a great place to network with other professionals, listen to experts, and learn the latest information on industry standards and trends. We hope that this list will help you decide where to spend your time this year.

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