EYE DIGEST FEBRUARY 2021
BCDO’S QUARTERLY OPTOMETRIC MAGAZINE
PRACTICE MANAGEMENT UWF Imaging in Large Optometric Practice | p. 10
INDUSTRY 2021 Tax Tips and Optimizing Your Financial Plan | p. 4
MEMBER SPOTLIGHT Dr. David Schwirtz | p. 34
info@optometrists.bc.ca 604.737.9907
BC Doctors of Optometry 121 –10551 Shellbridge Way, Richmond B.C, V6X 2W8
CONTENTS
Practice Management & Industry Work From Home Tips .................................................................................................................................. 3 2021 Tax Tips and Optimizing Your Financial Plan..............................................................................4 Thealoz Duo: For Patients with Dry Eyes............................................................................................... 9 UWF Imaging in a Large Optometric Practice .................................................................................. 10 See the Retina from a Safe Distance .................................................................................................... 14 The Scotia Professional Plan for Optometrists ................................................................................. 15 Take Comfort in ACUVUE .......................................................................................................................... 16 Everyday is Earth Day ................................................................................................................................. 18 Hindsight’s 2020: Top 3 Employment Law Lessons from the Pandemic................................ 19 Precision 1: A Lens Designed with New Wearers in Mind ............................................................ 22 Five Things I Learned from Starting a Dry Eye Clinic..................................................................... 23 New Systane Ultra Hydration Lubricant Eye Drops Preservative Free.................................... 25 Five HR Best Practices to Apply in Your Workplace....................................................................... 26 Is it TiiME to Consider XiiDRA.................................................................................................................. 29 FBC Researcher Investigating the Cause of Vision Loss in Usher Syndrome ......................................................................................................................................... 30 HYLO-DUAL: Dry Eye and Allergy Free .............................................................................................. 32 Innovation, Technology and Investment in One: TAYE ................................................................. 33
Spotlight on a Member Member Spotlight - Dr. David Schwirtz............................................................................................... 34
Programs Cyber Caution: Online Safety Tips ....................................................................................................... 39 BCDO New Public-Facing Website ..................................................................................................... 40 EyeLearn 2.0: Children’s Vision Program .......................................................................................... 42 2021 BCDO Events ....................................................................................................................................... 44 Are You Interested In Locum Work? Let Us Know! ....................................................................... 48 Communications and Public Relations .............................................................................................. 50
Eye Digest Magazine | 3
4 | Eye Digest Magazine
2021 Tax Tips and Optimizing Your Financial Plan By Alphil Guilaran and Richard Wong Financial Literacy Counsel Inc.
Tax planning is an essential component of a comprehensive financial plan for every Optometrist. With last year being unlike any other, it is important to assess the impact of the pandemic on both your tax and financial planning. As we enter tax season, it is a good time to review the various tax deductions and credits available to you and your practice. I had an opportunity to sit down with Richard Wong, CPA CA at Baker Tilly WM LLP who provides accounting and tax advisory services to self-employed and incorporated healthcare professionals. Alphil: Richard, what are some common overlooked deductible business expenses you would like Optometrists to keep top of mind this tax season? Richard: It is important for every Optometrist to remember that almost every financial decision they make for their practice has tax consequences. Here are eight common areas of overlooked tax deductions that affect an Optometrist’s ability to keep more of what they earn in practice. 1. Home Office Expenses If you use a workspace in your home as your
principal place of business (e.g., an associate practicing at various clinics but without an office there) or the space is only used for business and to regularly see patients then you can deduct the business portion of expenses including rent, mortgage interest, home insurance, property tax, utilities, and repairs and maintenance. The business portion is based on the square footage of the home office relative to the total square footage of the home. Additionally, any personal use of the workspace needs to be accounted for in the expense allocation. 2. Automobile Expenses You can claim the business portion of automobile expenses, though commuting costs are excluded. Deductible costs include lease payments (max $800 per month), interest expense (max $3,600 per year), depreciation (through capital cost allowance or CCA), fuel, insurance, registration fees, and repairs and maintenance. Since the deduction is pro-rated for the business-use portion, it is important to keep a logbook detailing the distance and purpose of each trip to substantiate your claim. Business-related costs like parking and tolls are fully deductible.
Eye Digest Magazine | 5
3. Wages to Family Members You can deduct wages paid to a spouse or to children to perform work for your business, however the amount must be similar to what would be paid to an unrelated employee. This is beneficial if your spouse or children are in a lower tax bracket than you. 4. Meals and Entertainment You can deduct 50% of meal and entertainment costs including meals incurred when travelling to conventions or on business. 5. Office Supplies and Equipment Office supplies such as stationery as well as medical supplies are deductible. Equipment including computer and optometric equipment is not deductible in full, but can be depreciated through capital cost allowance or CCA, with the rate dependent on the type. 6. Utilities The business portion of utilities such as your mobile phone and internet service is deductible. 7. Professional Fees Legal, accounting, tax preparation, and consulting fees are deductible. 8. Professional Dues and Insurance Dues required to maintain membership in a professional body (e.g., College of Optometrists 6 | Eye Digest Magazine
of BC) as well as dues to professional associations (e.g., BC Doctors of Optometry) are deductible. Liability insurance is deductible although life insurance is not unless required as a collateral for a loan. Alphil: Thank you for that comprehensive list of overlooked deductible business expenses which can serve as a valuable checklist for Optometrists this tax season. What about on the personal side of things? Are there any tax deductions or credits to keep in mind? Richard: There are two areas I would like to highlight especially for Optometrists looking to buy their first home or who are parents. 1. First-Time Home Buyers As part of the Home Buyers’ Amount tax credit, you and/or your spouse or common-law partner can claim $5,000 (credit amount is $750) for the purchase of your first home, provided that you did not live in a home that was owned by either of you in the current or preceding four years. The amount can be split between spouses or common-law partners, but the total cannot exceed $5,000. In addition, qualifying first-time buyers can withdraw up to $35,000 from their RRSP provided the contributions were made at least 90 days before the withdrawal date. The amount needs to be repaid over 15 years.
2. Parents Parents are entitled to various tax credits and deductions for their children: Canada Child Benefit: This is a monthly non-taxable amount that is based on the number of children, their ages, whether any have a disability, and on family income. You will need to apply for this benefit. Childcare Expenses: These can be deducted from income for the lower-income spouse up to a maximum of $8,000 for each child under the age of 7 and $5,000 for each child between the age of 7 and 16. If a child has a disability, a larger amount can be claimed. Alphil: Optometrists have proven to be resilient as they continue to find ways to overcome the adversities that come along with the pandemic. Can you highlight the most relevant COVID-19 benefits available to Optometrists? Richard: In response to the numerous challenges of the pandemic, the government is providing programs to support affected Optometrists and their practices. Here are some of the most relevant ones: 1. Canada Emergency Business Account (CEBA): This is an interest-free loan of up to $60,000 of which up to $20,000 is forgivable if the loan is repaid by December 31, 2022. The application
deadline is March 31, 2022. 2. Canada Emergency Wage Subsidy (CEWS): This is a wage subsidy program offered until June 2021 for qualifying employers who have experienced a drop in revenues. 3. Canada Emergency Rent Subsidy (CERS): This is a rent subsidy program that started in September 2020. It is offered to qualifying businesses that own or rent property and have experienced a drop in revenues. 4. BC Small and Medium Sized Business Recovery Grant: Grants between $10,000 and $30,000 are provided to qualifying small and medium-sized BC businesses that have been affected by COVID19. This program closes March 31, 2021. Alphil: My last question has to do with Optometrists practicing in Canada who have U.S. citizenship. Are there any special tax considerations they need to be aware of? Richard: I have come across a number of Optometrists who are U.S. citizens, and this poses some unique challenges. The U.S. requires its citizens and green card holders to file income tax returns even if they are not residing in the U.S. This means that persons who were born in the U.S. and left as children are still required to file annual income tax returns. U.S. legislation requires foreign Eye Digest Magazine | 7
banks to disclose certain information about U.S. citizens which increases the chance of non-filers being detected.
loved ones and your ability to earn an income by reviewing that you have adequate life, disability, and critical illness insurance coverage.
While the credit for Canadian taxes payable will often result in no U.S. taxes payable on the U.S. income tax return, a return must still be filed and penalties for non-compliance can be significant. Programs to assist in getting filings up to date are available for U.S. citizens who are behind on their filings.
5. Investment and Work Optional Planning: Assess the impact the pandemic may have had on your portfolio and confirm that your investments are on track to meet your personal, family and practice goals.
Last but not least, Optometrists with U.S. citizenship should get professional tax advice if they plan to incorporate their practice or open a Tax-Free Savings Account due to some U.S. based compliance obligations.
If you have any questions regarding tax and financial planning, your BCDO membership benefits includes two financial coaching sessions. Contact the Financial Literacy Counsel to access your benefit at 604-620-6630, email: consultation@flci.ca or click the QR code below:
Alphil: Richard, thank you for your valuable insights and tax tips to help Optometrists this tax season. In addition to the tax tips above, it is also important to review your financial plan in light of the impact the pandemic may have had on your practice and personal finances. We recommend you focus on the following areas to optimize your financial plan: 1. Cashflow Management: Review your current and projected 2021 income, expenses and debt obligations. 2. Estate Planning: Draft or update your will, power of attorney, advance care plan and business succession plan to provide peace of mind to heirs, beneficiaries, patients and business partners. 3. Tax Planning: Prioritize strategies to maximize tax deductions, credits and deferrals to keep more of what you earn throughout your Optometric career. 4. Insurance and Risk Management: Protect your 8 | Eye Digest Magazine
ABOUT THE FINANCIAL LITERACY COUNSEL Financial Literacy Counsel is a boutique financial education and financial planning company committed to “building financially literate generations”. They began serving doctors in 2003 through UBC Medicine and were contracted in 2011 by VCH Employee Wellness to provide financial literacy to healthcare professionals. Their Programs are also delivered through BC Doctors of Optometry, UBC CPD, Vancouver Divisions of Family Practice, Chartered Professionals Accountants of BC (CPA-BC) and Continuing Legal Education Society of BC (CLE-BC). FLC is the winner of the 2020 IFSE Institute Financial Literacy Champion of the year award. This article is courtesy of Alphil Guilaran of Financial Literacy Counsel Inc. and Richard Wong, CPA, CA of Baker Tilly WM LLP. Richard has extensive experience in providing accounting and tax services to health professionals. For more information, Richard can be reached at Richard.wong@bakertilly.ca or at 604-691-6886.
HYDRATE. PROTECT. REGENERATE.
• PRESERVATIVE-FREE • PHOSPHATE-FREE • SAFE FOR CONTACT LENS WEARERS
Ask us more about the Labtician Théa range of products to treat your Dry Eye Disease 1. External data, MAT September 2017 – S01K without cyclosporine.
Eye Digest Magazine | 9 Bringing innovation to practice
UWF Imaging in a Large Optometric Practice by Dr. Surjinder Sahota
10 | Eye Digest Magazine
Eye Digest Magazine | 11
Ultra-widefield (UWF) imaging plays a critical role in our large and busy practice, providing significant clinical benefit, enhancing practice efficiency, and contributing to improved patient communication and education. Complete Eyecare Optometry has been using Optos UWF imaging since I joined the group 13 years ago, and we recently acquired a second Optos device to meet our patient volume demands. Initially offered as an optional service, we now consider UWF to be part of a standard exam for patients age 19 and older. Though the use of this technology does not replace dilation, it provides an added layer of confidence that we are providing the most comprehensive exam to our patients. An international panel of retina specialists with expertise in imaging recently defined UWF as images that include retina “beyond the vortex vein ampullae in all 4 quadrants" (1). In less than half a second, Optos devices provide a 200-degree view of the retina in a single capture, allowing us to see the retinal periphery beyond the vortex vein ampullae — something that no other imaging system is currently capable of. This is significant, as studies have shown that peripheral pathology may indicate faster disease progression(2). Capturing these UWF optomap images enhances our ability to identify, evaluate and monitor progressive ocular conditions like glaucoma and age-related macular degeneration, systemic diseases such as diabetes and high blood pressure and aberrations including freckles and choroidal nevi. In a large, multi-clinician practice like ours, we sometimes see each other’s patients. Reading a colleague’s observations from a previous exam is 12 | Eye Digest Magazine
helpful but also subjective. Having an optomap image in a patient’s file along with that description provides an objective measure against which we can compare what we see in our own exams. The ability to share with a patient an optomap image of their eye not only provides a “wow” factor, but it also makes that patient feel more invloved in their eye exam. The ability to see the image immediately, review the scan together and show them exactly what we are talking about, what we are looking for, or what we will be looking for in the future makes it easier for them to understand their condition and perhaps more likely to comply with treatment recommendations. I have found this approach to be particularly effective with diabetic patients. Showing a patient pathology such as vitreous hemorrhaging and explaining how it could affect their vision is often a powerful motivator for encouraging behaviour modification and better disease management. While our practice considers UWF an optional part of the exam for patients under 19, it can also prove valuable in pediatric patients, particularly for viewing the retina of those that are high myopes. Having UWF also contributes to practice and exam efficiency. UWF is part of the pre-screening experience completed by our staff prior to every exam. If pathology is present, I see it before I even enter the exam room, allowing me to prepare for the conversation and giving me more time to address the patient’s questions or concerns. Having access to this information in advance also helps guide my dilated fundus exams (DFE). For example, when I see an area of concern on the optomap image, not only do I know where to concentrate, I can also take second image focused specifically on the area of concern. In situations where dilation is not possible, having the UWF image provides information and some
reassurance of that patient’s status. The three brief case studies below illustrate the clinical benefit of UWF imaging. A 66-year-old patient was seen for a routine exam with no symptoms or complaints. optomap imaging revealed an asymptomatic horseshoe tear in the right eye (Figure 1). The patient was sent for retinal consult and laser treatment to prevent detachment.
Figure 1
The next case was a 50-year-old patient with symptoms of a dark spot. The optomap image showed a retinal detachment (Figure 2a). We immediately referred the patient to a specialist for a laser procedure to stabilize the retina. Figure 2b shows the same eye after the laser procedure. Had we not caught the detachment, it would have involved the macula and resulted in permanent vision loss. The third case was a 70-year-old patient with diabetes and high blood pressure who was in for a routine eye exam. The optomap image identified a branch retinal vein occlusion in the right eye. This patient was also referred to a retina specialist and received a laser treatment to prevent further damage, edema, and loss of vision. We have all heard the adage, “a picture is worth a thousand words.” Trite as it may be, nowhere does it ring truer than in the case of UWF imaging. While DFE is still standard of care for performing a comprehensive eye exam, the use of UWF imaging has allowed our practice to deliver “next level” care, improving our ability to identify, monitor and document pathology, expediting treatment and enriching patient education and relationships.
Figure 2a
Figure 2b
References 1. Choudhry N et al. Classification & Guidelines for Widefield Imaging Recommendations from the International Widefield Imaging Study Group, Ophthalmology Retina (2019), doi: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.oret.2019.05.007. 2. Silva PS et al. Automated Hemorrhage and Microaneurysm Counts on Ultra-widefield Images Predict Increased Risk of Diabetic Retinopathy Progression Over 4 Years. Paper presented at The Association for Research in Vision and Ophthalmology Annual conference; 2018 Apr 29- May 3; Honolulu, HI.
Eye Digest Magazine | 13
14 | Eye Digest Magazine
Eye Digest Magazine | 15
16 | Eye Digest Magazine
Eye Digest Magazine | 17
everyday is earth day
one home is all we have. https://www.natureunited.ca/
18 | Eye Digest Magazine
Hindsight’s 2020: Top 3 Employment Law Lessons from the Pandemic By Sara Forte and Jim Wu, Forte Law
Eye Digest Magazine | 19
With 2020 in hindsight, we are taking stock of the employment law lessons learned in advising professional practices and clinics. Last year our clients were thrust into the uncharted territory of temporary layoffs, recalling workers to return to work and changes to schedules and duties. And of course, they were also managing work refusals due to fear of COVID-19, school closures impacting parent work availability, and everchanging Public Health Orders and WorkSafe BC requirements. In a year of many lessons learned, we have identified the top three proactive measures that professional practices and clinics can take to be ready for 2021 and beyond. 1. Employment Contracts Nobody likes employment contracts. It’s sad but true, and we get it. But our clients who had solid employment contracts in place had a few less worries during the rollercoaster of 2020. An enforceable employment contract can limit your exposure to severance to 8 weeks or less for each employee, instead of up to 24 months. Key clauses in a 2020 contract would have included a termination clause and language that allowed employers to reduce or change hours of work or duties. In 2021, all of the employment contracts we are drafting now include a clause that permits temporary layoffs. Most employers focus on limiting liability as the primary purpose of a contract, but a written 20 | Eye Digest Magazine
contract can also set clear expectations and help you avoid conflict in the workplace. If a contract is short and written in plain English, everyone understands what they are agreeing to and this minimizes potential disputes. Employment contracts need to be worded correctly and implemented carefully, or they are not enforceable. This is worth getting some legal advice to make sure you have it right. One common error is giving contracts to employees on their first day, or after they have already worked for some time. Unless you give them “consideration” for agreeing to the contract terms, which is something new and of value, the contract is not worth the paper it is written on. Best practice is to give the contract to a potential employee as their job offer and have them sign and return the contract before their first day. This can be done on paper or with an electronic signature. 2. Workplace Safety While health and safety has always been a priority for our clients, the pandemic took this focus to a whole new level. WorkSafe BC requires every employer to have a written COVID-19 Safety Plan. Addressing COVID safety nicely boils down to a WINDOW approach: 1. Workplace risk assessment 2. Implementing measures to reduce risk 3. Nailing down your policies 4. Developing communication plans and training
5. Opening the door to suggestions and changes 6. Walking the policy through with your team
and harassment on the basis of sex, age, disability, race and family status has been of great concern.
This is not a box-checking exercise that is “one and done.” You must regularly assess and modify the contents of your plan based on new Public Health Orders or changes at your clinic. Be prepared at any time for a visit from a WorkSafeBC investigator, and ensure that your COVID-19 Safety Plan is readily available for their inspection and review.
Bystander training is the new best practice in respectful workplace training. Traditional training focused solely on victims and harassers, but bystander training gives everyone on your team the skills they need to promote a culture of respect. We are recommending that our clients consider bystander training for their teams to avoid harassment claims but more importantly to foster psychological safety and effective teamwork.
3. Respect at Work The year 2020 was a year of conflict. The US election, anti-maskers, overt acts of racism against BIPOC friends and neighbours, school closures (and school re-openings), our government’s COVID-19 response, and restrictions on our daily lives were among the incredibly divisive issues that were in our faces every day. They have certain impacted our relationships and communications at work. In 2021 we have an opportunity to reset and reaffirm the importance of respect at work. WorkSafe BC requires every employer to have a policy and conduct training on bullying and harassment. We recommend taking this a step further and by implementing a respectful workplace program. This includes addressing bullying and harassment but also makes it clear that human rights must be respected. The pandemic has not impacted all of us equally or even similarly. Discrimination
If your practice survived 2020, you have our sincere respect and congratulations. We hope these tips will help you and your team continue to thrive in the years ahead. Authors
Sara Forte and Jim Wu are lawyers at Forte Law, an employment law boutique firm with offices in Surrey, Langley and Calgary. Forte Law’s team of employment lawyers advise on hiring, firing and everything in between. They advise workers and businesses including professional practices and clinics, and also facilitate the StandUP Teams™ Respectful Workplace Program.
Eye Digest Magazine | 21
22 | Eye Digest Magazine
Five Things I Learned from Starting a Dry Eye Clinic By Dr. Harbir Sian Supported by Alcon In recent months, we made a conscious and concerted effort to develop a dry eye clinic within our practice. It was clear that the need for this service was already there, with a large portion of our existing patients showing signs and symptoms of ocular surface disease. There was a steep learning curve in implementing the right protocols and treatment plans for our patients, but many valuable lessons were learned along the way. Here are my key takeaways: 1. Knowledge is Power Patients want to be empowered. When we take the time to educate our patients on the causes and treatment options of their conditions, they are empowered to make informed decisions about their health. We can draw a clear line between an educated patient and a compliant patient. Take the time to discuss the root cause and mechanisms behind a patient’s condition. 2. A Picture is Worth a Thousand Words We are visual creatures. In order to help patients understand the eyelid and ocular surface, I experimented with a variety of visuals, including a digital slit lamp with meibography, a smart phone attachment for the slit lamp, and generic images.
While having the ability to take photos and videos in real time (as with a digital slit lamp) is a nice luxury, it is not that much more effective than a generic image when it comes to educating the patient. Our Alcon representative provided us with high quality digital images that we can pull up on the computer screen to demonstrate to patients where and how their dry eye is occurring.
3. Retail Products For years I was comfortable simply handing out samples and directing patients to the nearest drug store, but I had underestimated the power of retailing dry eye products in the office. With dozens of options on the shelves claiming to treat a variety of symptoms, we know that the eye drop aisle can be daunting to navigate. As a Eye Digest Magazine | 23
result, patients often self-select and are left with a treatment that is not right for them. To avoid this problem, it made sense to start offering the products we believed would best help our patients in the office. This also helped our doctors commit to the plan because they knew their patients were more likely to comply with their at-home treatments.
4. Advanced Options Patients want to know we are continuously working to provide them with the latest and greatest in eye care. After discussing the root causes and some traditional approaches to treating ocular surface disease, I have found that it helps to introduce 24 | Eye Digest Magazine
patients to more advanced options such as the iLUX® MGD Treatment System from Alcon. They may not choose to pursue this route right away, but they take comfort in knowing that there are advanced options available to help treat the disease when the time comes. 5. All Good Things Take Time Dry eye disease is a chronic condition. This is one of the first things I explain to patients before beginning treatment. It is likely that the condition took months—if not years—to get to where it is now, so it is also likely it will take some time for it to return to normal. In the same vein, doctors should keep in mind that setting up a successful dry eye clinic is something that takes time. Taking a holistic approach to treating our patients’ ocular surface disease means giving them time to try the appropriate treatments. But I can assure you that once you implement the right protocols and treatment options, you will start to see positive responses and growth before you know it!
Eye Digest Magazine | 25
Five HR Best Practices to Apply in Your Workplace By HR and Health & Safety consultancy firm, Peninsula Canada
26 | Eye Digest Magazine
The world of work is always evolving, from new trends and practices to useful resources that can help your business run smoother. It is important to set goals and targets for your business and there are more resources available to business owners now than ever before. For those looking to improve their business, from freeing time to implementing better HR practices, here are some goal to strive towards this year. Delegate and outsource One of the biggest struggles small business owners face is not having enough time for everything. Employers and managers lose valuable time and energy on a multitude of small but necessary tasks, like administrative work, when they could be focusing on business development instead. Outsourcing is a great way to cut costs and save time. Instead of struggling with a task yourself or paying a full-time employee, you can get professional results faster. Outsourcing an administrative function, like HR, is an affordable way for employers and managers to ensure they are complying with employment and human rights laws, taking good care of their team and protecting their business. This is a great option that allows small businesses who cannot employ an HR worker or department to still benefit from the function. Hire employees that will fit and stay with the company A resume can be a good indication of a candidate’s past accomplishments, but it does not give a good idea of their potential. For this reason, many recruiters also evaluate applicants’ personalities and goals to determine whether they align with a company’s vision. Beyond understanding their job duties, candidates should be made aware of the business’s plans and how it might evolve in the future at the outset of their employment. Choose candidates who want to work for your company specifically rather than those who are simply seeking the position. Employees who enjoy
their workplace are more motivated to produce better work. Furthermore, workers who get along with their team contribute to high morale and engagement, improving retention rates. However, good recruitment goes beyond hiring for culture. While hiring a candidate that you feel will integrate well into the social culture may lead to great working relationships, it may also lead to a homogenous work force that lacks diversity of perspectives and ideas. Foster inclusivity If your business is lacking innovation and is experiencing stagnation, giving opportunities to a greater talent pool will enrich your business. A diverse workforce benefits from multiple points of view and different talents while minimizing bias. Additionally, employers must be aware of laws that protect the rights of job candidates. Discrimination based on the protected grounds in human rights legislation is against the law. As a best practice, avoid discriminatory implications in job postings. Examples to avoid include references to age such as “young and enthusiastic” and gender pronouns. As a manager, championing an inclusive culture will also prevent common workplace concerns such as harassment and bullying. Emphasizing inclusivity will demonstrate that everyone is welcome in the workplace and that negative behaviour is not tolerated. Make use of technology Technology can automate certain processes and make others more efficient, saving you lots of time and allowing for faster growth. For example, HR software like BrightHR can help employers more easily create and administer employee shift schedules, track employee work hours and vacation time, and keep employment documentation organized all in one place. BrightHR’s features, can also help businesses steer Eye Digest Magazine | 27
through the pandemic. The Back to Work Navigator helps employers in any industry manage their back to work processes all in one place. This feature provides Health & Safety and HR guidance notes, as well as templates and e-learning materials to help ensure they are reopening and recalling employees in compliance with the law. Meanwhile, the VaccTrak feature lets employers quickly update employee profiles to record who has had the vaccine and who is still on the waiting list. By downloading the Employee Information report, employers will be able to see a list of all their employees, their vaccination status, and what percentage of the workforce has received a vaccination. Users of VaccTrak also get access to a suite of e-learning tools that outline the different vaccines available, the vaccination process and the benefits of receiving the vaccine, to provide essential education and important information to employees when making vaccination decisions. Using technology to automate repetitive tasks is also a benefit to your workforce, as more varied and less
28 | Eye Digest Magazine
mundane work will keep employees more engaged and productive. Review your policies and procedures Some types of documentation, such as workplace harassment and violence policies, are legally required to be reviewed regularly. As legislation changes, other documentation will need to be updated in order for the business to stay compliant with the law. Business owners who are unsure of how to interpret and apply legislative changes to their business should consult professional advisors. ABOUT PENINSULA Peninsula is a trusted HR and Health & Safety advisory, serving over 80,000 small businesses worldwide. Clients are supported with ongoing updates of their workplace documentation and policies as legislation changes. Additionally, clients benefit from 24/7 employer HR advice and are protected by legal insurance.
Eye Digest Magazine | 29
FBC Researcher Investigating the Cause of Vision Loss in Usher Syndrome By Fighting Blindness Canada In early 2020, Fighting Blindness Canada (FBC) was pleased to announce a new research award for Dr. Vincent Tropepe (University of Toronto) to study the genetic basis of Usher syndrome, the most common form of inherited deaf-blindness. Keep reading to learn more about Usher syndrome and how Dr. Tropepe’s work may open the door to new treatments for this disease. ABOUT USHER SYNDROME Usher syndrome is the most common form of inherited deaf-blindness, affecting between 4 to 17 out of every 100,000 individuals. Hearing loss is caused by damage to the sensory “hair cells” in the inner ear. Vision loss is caused by retinitis pigmentosa, where light sensing photoreceptor cells that are unable to detect light or send visual information to the brain gradually die. It is often described as a progressively worsening form of tunnel vision. Usher syndrome is subdivided into three types— type 1, 2, and 3—with type 1 being the most severe. Mutations in at least 10 genes can lead to Usher syndrome. In all cases, the mutations affect how cells that communicate information to the brain (i.e. hair cells in the ear and photoreceptor cells in the eye) develop and function. 30 | Eye Digest Magazine
ABOUT DR. TROPEPE’S RESEARCH
While we already know about many of the genes and gene mutations that cause Usher syndrome, scientists still don’t have a good idea of exactly how those mutations lead to vision loss. One of the things that has held research back is the lack of a good Usher syndrome research model. Mice are a very common model for studying the genetic cause of diseases, including vision loss. However, scientists have found that while mice with Usher syndrome gene mutations have hearing loss, confusingly they don’t have vision loss. This is where Dr. Tropepe’s research comes in. Rather than mice, Dr. Tropepe is using zebrafish to examine the impact of Usher-related mutations because zebrafish retinas have many similarities to human retinas.
With support from our generous donors, Dr. Tropepe will be studying how mutations in the Pcdh15b gene—a gene that affects approximately 20% of patients withtype 1 Usher syndrome (specifically referred to as USH1F)—impact photoreceptor structure and function in zebrafish. Early experiments have shown that zebrafish that don’t have functional Pcdh15b have progressive loss of photoreceptors. As Dr. Tropepe explains, “By creating a genetic model of USH1F using zebrafish, we can investigate how photoreceptors develop and function over time in the absence of a functional Pcdh15b gene. This will allow us to better understand how the retinal disease process is unfolding in children with USH1F.”
help scientists understand the molecular machinery that keeps photoreceptor cells healthy. Lastly, Dr. Tropepe’s team will add a functional copy of the gene back into photoreceptors to see if this restores vision in zebrafish with Pcdh15b mutations. The results of these experiments will give scientists important information regarding whether gene therapy could work as a treatment for USH1F vision loss. Describing the results of experiments completed so far, Dr. Tropepe says, “Our data so far indicate, somewhat unexpectedly, that the loss of Pcdh15b leads to a defect in the way photoreceptors develop their unique structure at a very early age that likely prevent photoreceptors from processing light properly. These structural defects are observed way before we see a loss of photoreceptors.” Dr. Tropepe’s team began work on this FBC-funded project in January 2020 and despite work slowdowns caused by COVID-19, the team has already made very promising discoveries. FBC is excited to share more about this research as it progresses!
Dr. Tropepe is in the process of completing a detailed analysis of how the structure and function of photoreceptors is different in zebrafish with mutations in the Pcdh15b gene. He will then identify the network of proteins that interacts with Pcdh15b to
Learn more about FBC and the vision research it is funding at fightingblindness.ca.
Eye Digest Magazine | 31
32 | Eye Digest Magazine
Innovation, Technology and Investment in One: TAYE By Council for Healthy Eyes Canada The theme of this issue of eye digest is apt and timely: “looking forward: a business strategy that drives product innovation, technology and investment." The theme certainly ties completely to the work and ambitions of the Council for Healthy Eyes Canada (CHEC) and ThinkAboutYourEyes. ca (TAYE), a national and bilingual (English and French) integrated marketing, communications, and data collection campaign for 2021.
of Optometrists and their patients. Intuitively we know that so many more of us are spending much more time online for both business and pleasure. Who could have predicted in 2019 that “zooming” would be a defined thing? In order to achieve the best results with limited resources, CHEC will make educated choices. Given the amazing successes from past years it is likely that TAYE in 2021 will be a unified ‘digital-first’ effort.
The TAYE campaign has always sought to be forward looking; its first goal is to meaningfully support year-over-year growth in comprehensive eye exams. In 2021, is an increase of five percent (5%) or better. The collaboration that enables the TAYE campaign is likewise innovative in that it involves both Optometrists and a growing number of industry partners.
The investment that Optometrists and the eye care industry have made since 2018 have resulted in amazing dividends. Beyond the increases in comprehensive eye exams, TAYE is working to dramatically improve the knowledge Canadians have about the importance of eye health. In doing so TAYE is learning how we can best influence the behaviours of Canadians to ensure that they take the time to purposefully manage their vision. Without a doubt CHEC and TAYE would not have been possible without the investments of our founding partners, but as the TAYE campaign has grown and expanded into a national effort many more partners have been invited to participate in this win-win effort.
In many ways, technology has allowed TAYE to succeed. CHEC and its advisors developed a comprehensive engagement plan that is based on past results and research, and is also balanced with goals that are reviewed and updated annually. Indeed, the 2021 pre-campaign surveys that offer a baseline are scheduled to be deployed in early February. This year the survey work has been expanded. Both Optometrists and the general public are invited to participate and provide important information that will inform the 2021 TAYE strategy. For example, the 2021 pre-campaign survey seeks to understand how the COVID-19 pandemic is impacting the activities
To learn more about the Council for Healthy Eyes Canada, the national bilingual integrated marketing, communications and data collection effort ThinkABoutYourEyes.ca and sponsorship opportunities please go to www.CouncilforHealthyEyes.ca or contact us at 613 518 3266.
Eye Digest Magazine | 33
Dr. David Schwirtz Member Spotlight 34 | Eye Digest Magazine
Eye Digest Magazine | 35
Dr. David Schwirtz Vice President Innovation, IRIS the Visual Group BC Doctors of Optometry member
About Dr. David Schwirtz My name is David Schwirtz and I am passionate about being a father, husband, leader, and optometrist. I was born in Kamloops, British Columbia and as a kid, I was fascinated with the way that optometrists care for and interact with their patients. My interest in optometry continued through university but I also found it important to observe a myriad of different professions and speak with people in different work settings about their experiences to better understand what my direction could be. These observations and conversations helped me confirm that optometry was the profession for me. While I was completing my doctorate at Pacific University College of Optometry, I developed an interest in how our profession co-manages care with other health professions and how technology is impacting the way optometrists deliver care. When I graduated in 2009, these interests motivated me to complete a residency in Primary Eye Care and Refractive Surgery and 36 | Eye Digest Magazine
Ocular Disease Co-Management. What I didn’t realize, at the time, was that this experience would deeply influence my future. In subsequent years, I worked at an integrated care facility where I was given the opportunity to help refine refractive surgery algorithms, co-found a cataract and refractive lens exchange program and co-found a corneal cross-linking program. Later, I became General Manager of that same integrated care facility. I remain very proud that I was able to be a part of this team that worked so hard to provide high quality care for our patients. In 2014, I joined the senior leadership of IRIS The Visual Group and have held a series of different responsibilities over the years. Today, I serve as Vice President Innovation. This has been my most exciting and challenging role to date. In 2019 our team finished developing a unique iOS-based EMR that helps our optometrists focus on patient care and on developing strong doctor-patient relationships. In 2021, we are actively working
with technology that uses the latest in 3D facial scanning, augmented-reality, and advanced manufacturing to create high quality customtailored glasses with Topology Eyewear. With the supervision of an optician, this software takes accurate ophthalmic lens measurements and allows us to provide high quality vision and professional services in an online format. The technology also provides a unique shopping experience for customers looking for glasses both in store and online in a truly omnichannel format. We are also working on projects related to teleoptometry and artificial intelligence.
result, success for me is being in motion, pursuing a series of different goals in seemingly disparate spaces. What I like about being in motion is that I am constantly learning with the goal of increasing both the depth and breadth of my knowledge. I guess that some people might define success by the number of things that they accomplish. For me, the success is really in the journey and the friends that you meet along the way. I’ve had the chance to work with people who are infinitely smarter and more talented than I am. Just by making those connections and knowing that they count me as a friend makes me a success. For me, if you have a solid, diverse knowledge base and a great group of people to work with you’re pretty close to being successful. The last step is using that knowledge and that network to give back. As an example, at IRIS we built a program that involves 300+ optometry students per year. We share information and experiences in an effort to make sure that the next generation of optometry is as strong, if not stronger, than the current one. What inspired you to choose optometry as your profession? I am a third-generation healthcare provider, so I guess you could say that it’s in my blood.
Career Path and BCDO How do you define success? Great question—my main priority is family. Without family there really isn’t success. With the right priorities in place, I believe that success then depends on a strong work ethic and occasionally a bit of luck. From there, my way of defining success is to be well rounded and well connected. Ever since I was a kid, I have tended to push boundaries. This tendency has been driven by an insatiable curiosity about the world around us. As a
That being said, I was really drawn to optometry because it blends healthcare, retail and business. I really enjoy being a part of clinical optometry as well as optical retail. At IRIS, we pay equal attention to the healthcare, retail and business elements. This includes being well versed in the newest treatments for dry eye and myopia control, understanding some of the newest fashion trends that are influencing frame designs and being able to work through a P&L statement. Our patient journey painstakingly blends these elements together to provide a consistent best-in-class experience.
Eye Digest Magazine | 37
What would you like to see BCDO accomplish in the next few years? BCDO has done a phenomenal job in providing value and a voice to the membership. In the next few years, I’d like to see BCDO maintain the emphasis on technology and further develop communication lines with government. I would also like to see BCDO work more closely with MDs, particularly GPs, to further co-management of patients. These efforts would make sure that optometry continues to be primary eye care for British Columbians. As a profession, we then have the opportunity to be leaders in primary eye care among allied health professionals and the public on a provincial and even national scale.
The Profession of Optometry What do you enjoy/value most about being an optometrist? I deeply value being an optometrist because of the people. We have a pretty close-knit community filled with great people who are generally kind and try to help one another. At the same time, there are so many opportunities available to optometrists. Patient care is rewarding, and our field is continuing to develop. We can work in regulatory, advocacy and academic capacities. There are also leadership and management roles that optometrists can pursue if they choose. 38 | Eye Digest Magazine
What are the most rewarding aspects of your job? The most rewarding aspect of my job is creating new technology that can improve the delivery of care. The great part is that this technology can improve access of care to patients while keeping optometry at the centre of the process. I truly believe that optometry has the ability to determine it’s future and I find it incredibly rewarding to be a part of that journey. What new direction would you like to see happen in optometry? When I left optometry school, a few people thought that I was crazy to pursue a residency. Since that time, I have seen residency programs gain acceptance and become more common place for Canadian optometrists. I’d like optometry to continue moving in this direction and hopefully, in the near future, we would routinely refer to another optometry colleague that has specialized in a particular field.
Advice for New Grads What are three pieces of advice you have for New Grads entering the workforce? 1) You are the best of us! You have the most current knowledge and a bright future. Proceed with confidence, 2) Have the right professional team around you. 3) Don’t be afraid to ask for help.
CYBER CAUTION ONLINE SAFETY TIPS :
01 02 03 04 05
PASSWORDS AND PRIVACY SETTINGS MATTER. Choose strong passwords and never share them with anyone else. Regularly check your privacy settings, too.
WATCH WHAT YOU DOWNLOAD. Some programs and apps carry malware and try to steal your information. Download content from trusted sites only.
BE CAREFUL WITH YOUR ONLINE SOCIAL LIFE. Exercise caution with each online interaction so you can steer clear of scammers and fake users. Do not give personal information or send private photos.
SHOP SAFELY. Shop from secure websites, and avoid saving your credit card information. Take time to read reviews and ask questions when making purchases.
THINK BEFORE YOU POST. Be mindful of every post you create. Do not publish content you wouldn't want family, friends, and potential employers to see.
Eye Digest Magazine | 39
Surf safely. Learn more at: www.reallygreatsite.com
WE'VE GOT A NEW WEBSITE! Visit: https://bc.doctorsofoptometry.ca/
BC Doctors of Optometry is pleased to announce the launch of our newly designed website! After months of hard work and dedication, we are delighted to share it with all of you. Our main goal in launching this new website is to provide our visitors with a simple way to discover more about BC Doctors of Optometry, and to allow the public browse information based on their own choice. Featuring a brand new look and improved navigation, the new site is more user-friendly and impactful on desktop, mobile and tablet. We sincerely hope that you enjoy the new website and all that it has to offer! For any questions, suggestions, feedback or comments, please email us at info@optometrists.bc.ca.
40 | Eye Digest Magazine
Eye Digest Magazine | 41
42 | Eye Digest Magazine
EyeLearn
CHILDREN’S VISION PROGRAM
We are adapting the new EyeLearn program to a 2.0 version due to COVID. We want to meet the demands of the current COVID situation, which means awareness and education campaigns geared towards school aged children who are now doing online education more than ever before. As Optometrists, the most common questions that we are now getting from parents about their children's vision involve screen time, dry eyes, myopia and the long-term effects of computer use. Thus, we want to focus our efforts on addressing these concerns. We are educating teachers, parents, GPs and the community at large about the importance of eye exams and UV protection and promote healthy habits for online learning.
More to Come! Eye Digest Magazine | 43
2021 BCDO EVENTS 44 | Eye Digest Magazine
Eye Digest Magazine | 45
WEBINARS 2021 Course: A Practical Approach for the Treatment of Ocular Allergies 2021 Date: March 10th, 2021 Presenter: Dr. Lam & Dr. Al-Ghoul Time: 6:30 pm (Pacific Time)
Date: March 31st, 2021 Presenter: Dr. Lee & Dr. Racine Time: 7:00 pm (Eastern Time)
FEATURE MONTH INDUSTRY PARTNERS In 2021, stay tuned for exciting announcements and informative, engaging CE sessions from our feature month industry partners! January – Alcon February – Novartis March – Johnson & Johnson Vision April – Labtician Thea May – Allergan (an AbbVie Company) and more!
46 | Eye Digest Magazine
2021 BCDO ANNUAL CONFERENCE & OPTOFAIR BC Doctors of Optometry’s 2021 Annual Conference & OPTOFAIR is a three-day continuing education, networking and professional development event for doctors of optometry and optometric staff. This is your opportunity to gain valuable and relevant insight and education into the optometric field. Date: Friday, September 17 – Sunday, September 19, 2021 Please stay tuned for more details!
Eye Digest Magazine | 47
Are you interested in Locum work? Let us know! BCDO has a “Locum List” of members interested in locum opportunities to assist members looking for short term work coverage. If you are interested in locum opportunities, please provide us with your contact information: name, email, and phone number. When an opportunity becomes available, we will email our list of locum doctors with the details and those interested can connect directly with the member who posted the ad. Please email info@optometrists.bc.ca if you would like to be added to the Locum List or if you are looking for locum coverage.
48 | Eye Digest Magazine
Eye Digest Magazine | 49
Communications and Public Relations By BC Doctors of Optometry and Edelman Over the next many months, BCDO will work with Edelman to unveil three exciting PR and communications initiatives to raise awareness of eye health and the role of BC Doctors of Optometry as a part of British Columbians’ overall healthcare team. From the focus on children’s eye health through Eyelearn to an up-close and personal view of telehealth and in-person services amid COVID-19, we are helping people understand the importance of maintaining eye health during and after the pandemic. BCDO Telehealth Campaign Even during a pandemic, eye health matters. Following last year’s campaign, and as we continue to grapple with the ongoing impact of COVID-19, we are launching a videography and photography series featuring Dr. Sandy Johal and Dr. Helon Law to educate British Columbians about safe access to eye care services, both in-person and virtually, during COVID-19. The videos and photography will live on BCDO’s social accounts (Facebook, Instagram), YouTube and the BCDO website. Through the BCDO survey conducted in 2020, we learned many British Columbians have old and expired prescriptions they have not filled due to lack of awareness and fear regarding COVID-19. Many believe virtual care is not as effective as in-person care for many eye conditions. This video series reassures British Columbians that BC Doctors of Optometry are placing their patients' ongoing safety and wellness as their top priority. Eyelearn BCDO’s survey findings from 2020 revealed many
50 | Eye Digest Magazine
parents are concerned about COVID-19 and its impact on their children’s eye health. 2 in 3 BC parents are concerned, with 95 percent prioritizing maintaining their child’s eye health. BCDO is launching the newly revamped EyeLearn program from April to June, with the following objectives: - increase the percentage of children in BC receiving annual eye examinations - increase awareness of the recommended age for first and subsequent eye examinations - increase awareness of the importance of vision and how it impacts children’s learning In 2018, we introduced Opie to British Columbians. Eyelearn allows us to bring Opie’s world to life. EyeLearn will provide parents and kids with interactions with other Opie-esque characters, real-life scenarios and, of course, fun eye health facts. Both children and parents will see Opie at home, online, in schools and in Optometrists’ offices so they become part of Opie’s world on Facebook and Instagram, website banners and through Google search. Opie will begin his journey into the hearts and minds of families with a topic of concern for all parents – screen time. We want to encourage parents to start accessing their Doctor of Optometry for information and guidance. We want them to feel safe, informed and inspired to act knowing that their child will be in good hands and ready to realize their full potential.
Coming Soon As part of last year’s campaign – your eye health matters, even in a pandemic the BCDO survey on British Columbians’ eye concerns showed the association’s leadership in understanding attitudes and perception regarding eye health amid COVID-19, gained media attention and helped guide messaging around further public education and awareness. We are in the process of finalizing creative strategies for 2021 and we look forward to rolling out a campaign as we navigate this pandemic period and preparations for vaccine rollout and recovery. 2021 is shaping up to be another eventful year and BCDO is well-positioned and prepared to respond to the needs of British Columbians’ eye health needs.
NGIAPMAC HTLAEHELET ODCB
Eye Digest Magazine | 51
Stay Safe & Healthy
52 | Eye Digest Magazine