40th Anniversary Timeline
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1986-1999
Foundations and Milestones in Ophthalmic Administration
The founding and early successes that changed the course of ophthalmic practice management forever
1986
The idea for the ASOA takes shape when consultant Lucy Santiago presents a workshop for practice administrators at the ASCRS Annual Symposium. The session’s success leads to the founding of the American Society of Ophthalmic Administrators (ASOA) as a division of ASCRS. Santiago becomes the first Executive Director, serving until 2005.
1987
The inaugural joint ASCRS-ASOA Annual Meeting is held in Orlando, Florida—marking the beginning of a collaborative educational tradition that continues today.
1990
ASOA officially establishes its first Board of Directors, led by President E.Q. “Skip” Fahel, setting a foundation for governance and strategic leadership.
1992
ASOA launches Administrative Ophthalmology, a magazine dedicated to practice management topics for ophthalmic administrators. It becomes a critical resource for the growing membership.
I recognized a growing need for practice management education within our field. During my travels, I connected with ASCRS and presented the concept that would become ASOA. At the same time, ASCRS had just completed a practice survey in which physicians clearly expressed their need for support in managing medical practices. With that alignment, David Karcher and ASCRS gave me the opportunity to develop ASOA as an extension of their organization.Lucy Santiago, FASOA, ASOA Founder
1994
The first executive management program, “Wharton 1,” is held at the University of Pennsylvania. This milestone lays the groundwork for the development of the Certified Ophthalmic Executive (COE) credential three years later.
1996
Administrative Ophthalmology is rebranded as Administrative Eyecare, reinforcing its evolved commitment to ophthalmic practice administration. It remains the flagship magazine of the American Society of Ophthalmic Administrators (ASOA), targeting professionals involved in ophthalmology practice management.
1999
The first COE examination is administered, with 106 individuals earning the credential. Today, more than 300 practice leaders hold this prestigious designation.
Through ASOA, I built a national network that enabled me to support and advise many of the country’s leading ophthalmic practices. It was also an honor to help develop the Certified Ophthalmic Executive (COE) program and serve as the inaugural Chair of the NBCOE—advancing professional excellence across our industry.Candace Simerson, COE, CMPE, FASOA, ASOA Past President 1997-1999
2000–2016
Innovation, Education, and Professional Growth
From 2000–2016, ASOA experienced a period of remarkable transformation—expanding its educational programs, embracing new technologies, and elevating professional development opportunities for ophthalmic administrators. These years brought forward innovative practice management resources, the growth of certificate and training programs, and a strengthened commitment to supporting leaders navigating an ever evolving ophthalmic landscape.
2007
ASOA introduces its tagline, “Focusing on the Business of Ophthalmology,” reflecting its mission to enhance the business expertise of eye care administrators.
2008
The Pinnacle Award is established to recognize excellence in ethical billing and regulatory compliance. Named in honor of William E. Rose, Jr., it becomes a vital part of ASOA’s recognition programs.
2010
The award is renamed the “Pinnacle Award for Volunteerism” to recognize those who significantly contribute to the advancement of ophthalmic practice management.
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2013
ASOA conducts its first EHR Customer Satisfaction Survey, assessing how well electronic health record systems support meaningful use reporting requirements.
2014
ASOA launches the Learning Center, an online library of educational content developed with BSM Consulting (now VMG Health). It becomes a recommended study resource for the COE exam.
2014
The Administrative Eyecare “Editor’s Choice Award” is created to honor exemplary contributions to the publication.
2015
The Technician Workup Survey, conducted with Eyetechs and BSM Consulting, analyzes more than 6,300 patient encounters to study the impact of EHRs on workflow efficiency.
2016
ASOA celebrates its history and looks forward, preparing administrators for regulatory and technological changes, practice consolidations, and emerging human resources challenges.
2017–Present
Expanding Influence and Embracing New Practice Models
ASOA has continued to broaden its impact—strengthening its role as a vital resource for ophthalmic practice leaders. During this period, the organization has embraced evolving practice models, expanded its educational offerings, and delivered tools that help administrators navigate regulatory changes, workforce challenges, and rapid technological advancements. ASOA’s commitment to supporting modern, adaptable, and patient centered practices has positioned its members for continued success in a dynamic healthcare environment.
2017
ASOA launches EyeTalks Radio, a podcast focused on providing real-world practice management guidance. Topics include leadership, compliance, HR, and operational best practices.
2021
ASOA introduces the Strategic Business Partner (SBP) program, designed to strengthen collaboration between industry innovators and ophthalmic practice leaders.
2022
The LEAD Certificate Program launches, providing structured leadership education for mid-level managers and emerging leaders. To date, four classes have graduated, with a fifth cohort starting in 2025.
2024
ASOA debuts its Compensation and Benefits Survey—a comprehensive benchmarking tool charting salary and benefits data across 40 ophthalmic practice roles.
2025
ASOA expands its educational offerings with the introduction of The Business of Interventional Glaucoma program and the addition of Retina Sunday to the Annual Meeting, reflecting evolving trends in subspecialty care and practice management needs.
A key priority was deepening ASOA’s Strategic Partner relationships, recognizing that as technology evolves, thoughtful integration and collaboration are essential to sustainable success. Strong administration isn’t optional—it’s foundational to patient-centered, future-ready ophthalmology.Patti Barkey, COE, ASOA Past President 2023-2024
