The MPA is a professional association of optometric assistants and technicians whose membership is open to any person who works within the ophthalmic field in Michigan. The MPA was founded in 1976 and is dedicated to promoting all aspects involved in eye care. The organization functions in cooperation with the Michigan Optometric Association and conducts two educational seminars per year for its members.
WHAT IS THE PURPOSE OF THE MPA?
To purpose of the MPA is to enhance the paraoptometric profession both individually and on a group level. Through educational participation, the MPA becomes a support network within the vision care field.
WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF MPA MEMBERSHIP?
The MPA is a constantly changing and growing organization. Through these advancements, we offer benefits, new programs and opportunities for members. These benefits include:
- A certificate verifying your acceptance in the MPA.
- Educational seminars available to all members of the MPA. These seminars provide the continuing education necessary to renew MPA membership (six hours per year) and also fulfill the credit hours required for membership in the AOA Paraoptometric Section. There are also seminars available to help prepare for the annual AOA Paraoptometric Certification Examination. Some lectures also offer ABO credits.
- Members receive a $15.00 reduction in registration fees for MOA-sponsored seminars
- Employment Assistance Service -- available to MPA members seeking employment.
- Quarterly Prism newsletter updating you with current events in the paraoptometric field and a monthly issue of The Michigan Optometrist.
- An annual membership directory of all current members.
- General meetings at convenient sites for all members to attend.
- The opportunity to network with other paraoptometric professionals to share knowledge and skills acquired through experience in the eye care field.
- The satisfaction of developing lasting friendships with nice people sharing common interests in your career field.
WHO IS ELIGIBLE TO JOIN THE MPA?
Any person employed in the eye care field may join the MPA. You must be sponsored by a member of the MOA, and six hours of continuing education is required for annual renewal of membership (available through the MPA).
HOW CAN YOU BECOME A MEMBER OF MPA?
To join the MPA or receive answers to any questions, please contact our organization at:
Michigan Paraoptometric Association
c/o Michigan Optometric Association
530 West Ionia Street, Suite A
Lansing, MI 48933
MPA Phone: 616-481-4629
MPA EXECUTIVE BOARD MEMBERS FOR 2007-2008:
President - - - - - - - - - Dianna Sweet, C.P.O.T.
President-Elect - - - - - - Martha Postma, C.P.O.
Secretary - - - - - - - - - Vickie Schultz, C.P.O.
Treasurer - - - - - - - - - Barb Meyers, C.P.O.T.
Immediate Past President - - Shoni Sharp, C.P.O.T.
Executive Coordinator - - - - Linda McGuire, C.P.O.A.
MOA Liaison - - - - - - - Douglas N. Heinze, O.D.
DATES TO REMEMBER:
Winter Educational - February 6-7, 2008 Kellogg Center, East Lansing, MI
MPA Membership Application (PDF form)
