United Opticians Association Reports Advocacy Wins and Highlights Workforce Shortage in August 2026 Newsletter

The United Opticians Association (UOA) published its August 2026 National View, detailing recent advocacy successes and industry challenges. The newsletter reports that grassroots efforts by the Opticians Association of Washington and the Pacific Northwest Opticians Alliance helped protect access to continuing education after proposed legislation threatened to increase costs. Additionally, UOA leadership traveled to Washington, D.C., to discuss the new Eyewear Service Delivery system’s impact on Veterans' eye care access with Congressional staffers. The publication also addresses a growing optician workforce shortage affecting patient access and features an educational discussion on professional credibility led by HOYA Vision Care’s Michael Gatti. Upcoming events include the Summer Showcase Conference in Florida on September 11, 2026, and the Midwest Spec-Fest on September 19, 2026.