A Window into Binocular Vision in Europe

Last week, I had the incredible opportunity to speak at the European Academy of Optometry and Optics (EAOO) conference in Slovenia. I was told the workshop I was giving would max out at 30 attendees—but we ended up with over 60 optometrists packed into the room. Clearly, binocular vision is a growing area of interest in Europe!

My lecture focused on giving primary care optometrists simple, practical tools to screen for and diagnose binocular vision problems. My hope is that these tools will allow them to either refer to a colleague specializing in vision therapy or begin offering basic therapy themselves.

What I didn’t fully realize before this trip is that many optometrists in Europe are not legally permitted to diagnose or treat ocular conditions. In some countries, they are limited to refracting, dispensing, and fitting glasses and contact lenses. While I was impressed by how knowledgeable many of them were about binocular vision disorders and their treatment, it was shocking to learn that so many still don’t have the legal authority to act on that knowledge. And while it was encouraging to see a few ophthalmologists in the audience, I couldn’t help but wonder: if optometrists aren’t empowered to fill this gap, then who will?

I’m the first to admit that binocular vision disorders still don’t get the recognition they deserve in North America. We have a long way to go in terms of public awareness and access to care. But, being in Europe gave me a renewed sense of gratitude for the diagnostic and treatment privileges we do have here—privileges earned through decades of advocacy and effort by previous generations of optometrists. Still, the mission is far from over. Making vision therapy mainstream will take another generation of dedicated work. And I’m here for it.

Of course, it wasn’t all lecture halls and Wolff Wands. My wife and I had the chance to explore the breathtaking country of Slovenia. From hiking in the Julian Alps to wandering the streets of Ljubljana, we were in awe of its beauty—and yes, I took far too many photos of Lake Bled.

A huge thanks to Eye Hero/Amblyoplay for inviting me to speak and for being such generous hosts. Slovenia, your hospitality (and your scenery) left a lasting impression.

Europe, thanks for the inspiration—and the mountain views.