Industry News
World Council of Optometry Unveils Theme for 2024 World Optometry Week
The World Council of Optometry (WCO) has announced that World Optometry Week 2024 will be celebrated from March 17 to 23, with World Optometry Day taking place on Thursday, March 23. The theme for this year's celebration is "Advancing Optometry’s Commitment to Global Eye Care." This theme aims to emphasize the ongoing efforts of optometrists worldwide to enhance access to eye care and promote the adoption of Integrated People-centered Eye Care (IPEC) as recommended by the World Health Organization. Dr. Sandra Block, President of the WCO, expressed her encouragement at the profession's dedication to addressing preventable vision impairment and educating both patients and stakeholders about the significance of quality eye care.
“As we approach World Optometry Week 2024, I am encouraged to see how optometry as a profession is embracing the need to address the large burden of preventable vision impairment,” shares WCO President, Dr. Sandra Block. “We continue to educate our patients as well as stakeholders who understand the importance of access to quality eyecare. Optometry has taken a leadership role in addressing the many challenges.”
The WCO is encouraging optometrists globally to utilize their social media resources during World Optometry Week to advocate for the profession. Additionally, the International Agency for the Prevention of Blindness (IAPB) has developed the Advocacy to Action Toolkit to support the advancement of the IPEC model for equitable eye care. This initiative underscores the leadership role that optometry has taken in tackling the various challenges related to eye care.
The WCO's announcement sets the stage for a week of recognition and advocacy for the optometry profession, highlighting its vital role in improving global eye health care and promoting equitable access to quality eye care.
