Georgia Optometric Association Inc.

The Georgia Optometric Association Inc. (GOA) is a nonprofit organization established to advocate for optometry in the state of Georgia. Founded on July 14, 1904, as the Georgia Optical Association, the organization has a long history of promoting the profession of optometry and improving business conditions for its members. The GOA played a crucial role in achieving state recognition for optometry when Georgia became the 38th state in the United States to legalize the practice in 1916[2][3].

Mission and Objectives

The mission of the Georgia Optometric Association is to provide support and resources to optometrists across Georgia, ensuring that they can deliver high-quality eye care. The association focuses on legislative advocacy, professional development, and community engagement to enhance the practice of optometry within the state. With over 700 members, the GOA serves as a unified voice for optometrists, actively working to address legislative challenges and improve the scope of practice for its members[2][3].

Membership Benefits

Members of the Georgia Optometric Association enjoy a variety of benefits designed to enhance their professional practice, including:

• Access to exclusive educational resources and networking opportunities.
• Participation in events such as conferences and workshops tailored for optometrists.
• Member-only discounts on products and services, including insurance and practice management tools.
• A platform to connect with fellow optometrists and share best practices and insights[3][4].

Financial Information

As of the fiscal year ending in December 2023, the Georgia Optometric Association reported total revenues of approximately $1.03 million and expenses of about $1.05 million, resulting in total assets of $1.41 million and liabilities of $484,000[1]. The primary source of revenue for the association comes from program services, which accounted for roughly 79.5% of total revenue during that fiscal year.

Historical Context

The formation of the Georgia Optical Association marked the beginning of a significant shift in the optometry profession. The early years saw advancements in eye and vision care with the introduction of scientific instruments, improving the accuracy of prescriptions and enhancing patient experiences. Post-World War II, the profession experienced significant growth, aided by the GI Bill, which allowed many veterans to pursue careers in optometry[2][3].

Conclusion

The Georgia Optometric Association continues to be a vital entity for optometrists in Georgia, advocating for the profession, providing resources, and fostering community among its members. Through its ongoing efforts, the GOA enhances the quality of eye care and maintains a strong presence in legislative matters affecting the practice of optometry in the state.