Episode 46 - Optometry x Ophthalmology: The New Alliance in Myopia Management | Drs. Chapman & Baartman

Optometry and ophthalmology have a complicated past — but the future looks completely different. Recently both optometry (via the AAOMC) and ophthalmology (via AAPOS) have vocalized public positions on managing pediatric progressive myopia. In this episode of The Myopia Mindset, host Matthew Herzberg sits down with two leaders shaping that future: Dr. Cheryl Chapman, orthokeratologist, myopia specialist, Past President of AAOMC Dr. Brandon Baartman, board-certified ophthalmologist at Vance Thompson Vision This conversation was inspired by Brandon’s lectures at Vision by Design 2024, where Matthew realized just how far the OD–MD relationship has evolved. Together, Cheryl and Brandon unpack: Why ophthalmology historically ignored (or even dismissed) myopia management What’s changing — and why younger MDs think differently How Cheryl and Brandon built their own interdisciplinary referral partnership Why orthokeratology is no longer “snake oil” to MDs How ODs can confidently approach ophthalmologists to build relationships There is no shortage of myopic patients, but there is a shortage of strong OD–MD relationships. If we’re going to slow the global rise of myopia, everyone in eyecare needs to work together.