WAEPS 2026 Ophthalmic Medical Personnel Program Schedule & Session Descriptions

Course Description: History taking is one of the most important skills a clinician can learn but it is becoming an art that is losing its luster. Although it may seem simple, this skill takes years to master. However, once properly performed, critical thinking is inherited, and providers have relevant information for diagnosing and treating our patients.

2. C.O.R.E: The Approach to Diplopia

Speaker: Eugene May, MD

Course Description: In this course, illustrative cases and discussion will identify specific features of common causes of diplopia, such as decompensated strabismus, cranial nerve palsy, thyroid orbitopathy, myasthenia gravis and head trauma. A systematic approach to evaluation of patients with diplopia and its management will be discussed. At the conclusion of the course, the attendee will be able to understand the common causes of diplopia and the appropriate tests to perform, as well as identify the patients requiring emergent management.

3. Masterclass: Glaucoma Update 2026 - Innovations in Glaucoma Therapies

Speaker: Elizabeth Martin, MD

Course Description: The field of glaucoma is currently experiencing an expansive period of clinical innovation, with new diagnostic, medical, laser and surgical treatments becoming available within the past year. This course will discuss (1) new therapies that have a range of mechanisms of action, (2) delivery mechanisms for glaucoma medicines that are currently in the final stage of clinical testing, with promising results and (3) laser and surgical treatments that have improved safety profiles and ease of use. We will also discuss the rationale for combining different modes of action that are complimentary and have specific characteristics, such as lowering IOP at night. At the conclusion of this course, the attendees will be able to describe the newest innovations in glaucoma therapy (diagnostics, medications, laser and surgery).

19. Workshop: Pentacam: Clinical Applications for Cataract Surgery

Speaker: Michelle Stoecklin

Course Description: This course will cover the basic principles of Scheimpflug imaging technology, image acquisition, optical biometry, and clinical applications for cataract surgery and IOL calculation. The class will include both hands-on instruction and lecture. Upon completion of this workshop, participants should be able to understand the basic principles of Scheimpflug imaging technology and optical biometry, acquire images with the Pentacam, evaluate image and measurement quality and interpret maps and measurements pertinent to cataract surgery and IOL calculations.

20. Workshop: IOL Master 700: Best Practices

Speaker: Connie McKeehen, CCOA; Iva Chinchen, COA

Course Description: This course will review basic swept source biometry technology. It will include review of operator technique, how to ensure reliable measurements and how to troubleshoot common obstacles. An IOLMaster 700 instrument will be available for hands-on practice. IOL power calculation and formula capabilities will also be discussed.

21. Workshop: Anatomy and Dissection of the Eye

Speaker: Molly Cunard, MD; Tracy Pitman, COA; Serenity Hewett, COA

Course Description: This hands-on workshop will begin with a brief discussion of the anatomy and physiology of the eye including the cornea, iris, ciliary body, zonular apparatus, crystalline lens, vitreous body, retina, choroid and sclera. Following the discussion, participants will perform a guided step-by-step dissection of a pig’s eyeball.

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9:40 AM - 10:40 AM

4. Fundamentals: Eyelid and Facial Lesions - The Good, The Bad, and Modern Treatments

Speaker: Erin Fink, MD

Course Description: This course will discuss various eyelid and facial lesions that can be seen in a general ophthalmology and an oculofacial surgery practice. Symptoms and signs will be presented as well as various diagnostic and treatment options.

5. C.O.R.E: Glaucoma Case Files - Investigating Diagnostic Challenges

Speaker: Natalie Husa, MD

Course Description: This course will investigate mystery glaucoma cases by analyzing symptoms, exam findings, diagnostic testing results and possible diagnosis for treatment and patient management. The audience will be presented with unknowns and encouraged to identify important elements and the diagnosis. Cases may include open angle glaucoma, normal tension glaucoma, narrow angle glaucoma, neovascular glaucoma, and others.

6. Masterclass: Cataract Surgery Safety - Strategies to Reduce Adverse Events using a Systems Approach

Speaker: Jeannette Domask, MPH, CPHRM

Course Description: This presentation explores how a systems approach can reduce adverse events in cataract surgery. It leverages real malpractice cases, claims data, and expert recommendations to highlight risk management strategies that improve patient safety and reduce liability. Objectives will be: identify gaps in systems and processes that increase the risk of adverse outcomes; recognize system and human factors that contribute to patient harm; use a systems approach to apply lessons learned from malpractice claims into risk management and patient safety strategies to prevent similar events.

22. Workshop: Anterior Segment Imaging with Spectralis OCT

Speaker: Lenae Gilmore

Course Description: This course provides a focused, hands-on introduction to anterior segment imaging using the SPECTRALIS Anterior Segment Module. Participants will learn how to utilize the three structural acquisition menus through real case examples, gaining practical insight into when and how each scan type is used.The session includes guided instruction on scan optimization, analysis tools, and techniques for producing high-quality images. Attendees will also have time for questions and discussion to reinforce understanding and support clinical application.

23. Workshop: Slit Lamp Examination Techniques

Speaker: Hashani Hettiarachchi, MD

Course Description: This lecture and hands-on workshop will demonstrate techniques such as sclerotic scatter, direct and indirect focal illumination, specular reflection and narrow- vs. wide-beam illumination. Participants will have the opportunity to practice these techniques as they perform slit lamp examinations on each other. Upon completion of this course, participants should be able to identify the techniques used in a slit lamp examination and demonstrate the correct use of each technique.

24. Workshop: Anatomy and Dissection of the Eye

Speaker: Molly Cunard, MD; Tracy Pitman, COA; Serenity Hewett, COA

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10:50 AM - 11:50 AM

7. Fundamentals: Sudden Unilateral Vision Loss

Speaker: Tyson Bates, MD

Course Description: Patients presenting on an acute basis with a complaint of sudden unilateral non-traumatic vision loss is a frequent occurrence in an ophthalmic practice. Understanding the most common causes of this condition will allow the technician to focus on the parts of the history and examination that will lead to the most useful information, and aid in making an early diagnosis.

8. C.O.R.E: The Era of Presbyopia Correction - An Update on IOL Technology

Speaker: Alex Beazer, MD

Course Description: The use of presbyopia-correcting IOLs has increased significantly in the last several years with a steady improvement in IOL technology, from refractive to diffractive, from bifocal to trifocal and to enhanced depth of field (EDOF). This course will discuss the optical benefits and limitations of the currently available presbyopia-correcting IOL options. The anticipated quality and range of vision of each IOL will be reviewed. Reasons for unexpected results with these IOLs will be discussed, including the cornea, patient occupation, and angle kappa. Optimal methods of IOL calculation will be reviewed with best-case visual outcomes.

9. Masterclass: Making Optical Sense

Speaker: Matthew Parker, Ph.D., DSc, CLSSMBB, PMP, CTC, COMT

Course Description: This lecture is an advanced optical training program designed to transform experienced ophthalmic technicians into master practitioners. This cutting-edge course seamlessly integrates retinoscopy, manifest refraction, keratometry, and topography into a cohesive learning experience that bridges theory with clinical application. Interactive, lecture-based instructions deliver the course. Through expert demonstrations, real-world case studies, and interactive problem- solving exercises, participants will refine essential optical skills that drive exceptional patient outcomes and enhance practice efficiency. This intensive program delivers the clarity and confidence you need to excel in modern ophthalmic care.

25. Workshop: Basic Ocular Motility

Speaker: Jessica Steele, CO, COMT; Lynn Hurley, CO, COT

Course Description: This interactive, hands-on workshop will provide an introduction to and discuss the assessment methods for the basic evaluation of ocular motility and binocularity.

26. Workshop: B-scan Examination Techniques

Speaker: Tracy Pitman, COA; Serenity Hewett, COA

Course Description: This course will include a discussion of the terminology and basic principles of diagnostic B-scan examination of the eye and will provide hands-on exposure in the fundamental skills needed to perform a basic B-scan. Attendees will have the opportunity to perform B-scans on each other and learn techniques to obtain an echographic picture of the globe.

27. Workshop: Cirrus HD-OCT: Best Practices

Speaker: Connie McKeehen, CCOA; Iva Chinchen, COA

Course Description: This course will discuss clinical applications of Cirrus OCT, review proper operation of the instrument and how to read more advanced analysis options. The course will focus on basic and advanced operator techniques and how to overcome difficult obstacles. It will also review the latest advancements in Cirrus OCT capabilities.

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1:10 PM - 2:10 PM

10. Fundamentals: A Clinician’s Guide to Prosthetic Eyes

Speaker: Todd Cranmore, BCO, BADO; Tawnya Cranmore, BA

Course Description: This presentation will focus on common pathways to eye loss, who can wear a prosthetic eye, how prosthetic eyes are made and how to care for patients with a prosthetic eye. We will follow a patient through the whole process and look at a few individual case studies. There will be lots of photos and hands-on examples. In the end, one will have a better understanding of the process and restoration their prosthetic patients undergo, as well as how to better care for these patients and their prosthetics.

11. C.O.R.E: Ocular Trauma Update 2026

Speaker: Jennifer Yu, MD, PhD

Course Description: This course will describe the classifications of ocular trauma that commonly present in the ophthalmology clinic. It will discuss proper evaluation and triage methods and provide an overview of the treatment options available to manage the different types of ocular trauma. Using multiple clinical examples, the work-up of the ocular trauma patient will be discussed and as well as the ways to identify true ophthalmic emergencies.

12. Masterclass: Lens Logic

Speaker: Matthew Parker, Ph.D., DSc, CLSSMBB, PMP, CTC, COMT

Course Description: This lecture is an advanced contact lens course that empowers experienced ophthalmic professionals to master the art and science of contact lens care and management. This dynamic program goes beyond basic fitting to explore cutting- edge techniques, clinical troubleshooting, and real-world applications that drive patient satisfaction and practice growth. Interactive, lecture-based instructions deliver the course. From specialty lenses for complex corneal conditions to managing patients with challenging fit, participants will gain the expertise and confidence to handle any contact lens challenge. Through interactive case reviews and evidence-based protocols, this course transforms contact lens services from routine to remarkable.

28. Workshop: Slit Lamp Examination Techniques

Speaker: Natalie Husa, MD

29. Workshop: IOL Master 700: Best Practices

Speaker: Connie McKeehen, CCOA; Iva Chinchen, COA

30. Workshop: Intermediate / Advanced Ocular Motility

Speaker: Jessica Steele CO, COMT; Lynn Hurley CO, COT

Course Description: This interactive workshop will review and discuss the assessment methods for intermediate to advanced evaluation of ocular motility and binocularity.

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2:20 PM - 3:20 PM

13. Fundamentals: Eye Can See Clearly Now - The Story of Cataract Surgery

Speaker: Mike Brush, MD

Course Description: This course offers a detailed overview of the history of cataract surgery and the evolution of intraocular lens (IOL) design. The course will discuss major surgical breakthroughs of the last 30 years and the projected trajectory of the industry. The course will also address the critical role of preoperative diagnostic measurements and the evidence-based criteria surgeons utilize to optimize refractive outcomes through individualized lens selection.

14. C.O.R.E: Clinical Skills in Retinal Care - A Guide to Assisting the Retina Physician

Speaker: Loka Thangamathesvaran, MD

Course Description: This session provides a practical and clinically focused overview of common retinal diseases, imaging findings, and management pearls. The goal is to strengthen understanding of retinal anatomy, disease recognition, and improve technician skills that directly impact patient care and treatment outcomes. Emphasis will be on real-world applications in imaging, triage, and assisting in retinal procedures.

15. Masterclass: Posterior Trauma Mythbusters

Speaker: Yewlin Chee, MD

Course Description: This course will review causes, manifestations, and evaluation of ocular trauma. Particular focus will be placed on posterior segment trauma, highlighting misconceptions regarding its management.

31. Workshop: Intermediate / Advanced Ocular Motility

Speaker: Jessica Steele, CO, COMT; Lynn Hurley, CO, COT

Course Description: This interactive workshop will review and discuss the assessment methods for intermediate to advanced evaluation of ocular motility and binocularity.

32. Workshop: Clinical Applications of the Spectralis OCT

Speaker: Lenae Gilmore

Course Description: This course will discuss clinical applications of the Spectralis OCT, review proper operation of the instrument and how to read more advanced analysis options. The class will include both hands-on instruction and explain and demonstrate the scan modes, analysis tools and techniques needed to produce high quality scans.

33. Workshop: Anatomy and Dissection of the Eye

Speaker: Molly Cunard, MD; Tracy Pitman, COA; Serenity Hewett, COA

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3:30 PM - 4:30 PM

16. Fundamentals: Glaucoma & Nutrition - Why What You Eat Matters

Speaker: Ernesto Golez, MD

Course Description: This course will review the common types of glaucoma and the signs and symptoms of each, followed by a discussion of the evidence demonstrating dietary habits that reduce risk of glaucoma and/or lowering intraocular pressure. We will review these lines of evidence applicable to patients with glaucoma or those at risk for glaucoma.

17. C.O.R.E. Sharper Focus - Corneal Imaging and Slit-Lamp Expertise

Speaker: Latrice Jones-Bey, COT, MBA, OSC

Course Description: This course covers essential skills for performing corneal imaging and using the slit lamp effectively. Participants will learn proper techniques for corneal topography, tomography, AS-OCT, and other diagnostic tests. The course will also provide insights on troubleshooting poor scans, improving accuracy, and using corneal imaging results in refractions. Additionally, attendees will gain a comprehensive understanding of slit lamp use, including its principles, anatomy, examination order, and how to document and identify common abnormal findings.

18. Masterclass: The Approach to Eyelid Reconstruction

Speaker: Peter Kally, MD

Course Description: This course will cover the functional and cosmetic reconstruction of eyelid and periorbital tissue and will provide an understanding of the relevant anatomy. Reconstruction techniques necessary for successful reconstruction will be reviewed.

34. Workshop: Pentacam: Clinical Applications for Cornea and Refractive Surgery

Speaker: Michelle Stoecklin

Course Description: This course will cover the basic principles of Scheimpflug imaging technology, best practices for operation of the Pentacam system, and applications for corneal evaluation and refractive surgery. The class will include both a lecture and hands-on instruction.

35. Workshop: Cirrus HD-OCT: Best Practices

Speaker: Connie McKeehen, CCOA; Iva Chinchen, COA

36. Workshop: B-scan Examination Techniques

Speaker: Tracy Pitman, COA; Serenity Hewett, COA

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