‘The Eyes Have It’
Kirk & Kirk has debuted a new podcast called The Eyes Have It. In it, co-founder Jason Kirk speaks with notable people from the worlds of sport, music, film and fashion in a series of intimate discussions that reveal their relationships with eyewear, as well as broaching often personal subjects. In the first episode, out now on Apple and Spotify, actor Kirsten Vangsness, (“Garcia” from TV show Criminal Minds) discusses her early forays into acting and the obstacles she experienced as an aspiring actress. In episode two, writer, producer, poet, Kwame Alexander talks about his childhood and his unusual relationship with books. Ex-BBC presenter Nick Coffer of Boutique Broadcast has produced the podcasts which will be released every two weeks. kirkandkirk.com
VSP Has a Student Loan Repayment Plan
VSP Vision announced a new Student Loan Repayment Program for optometry students, recent graduates, and practicing ODs. The $2 million investment aims to help optometry students and doctors address student debt while further incentivizing staffing in underserved communities. The program provides up to $50,000 per year for four years, regardless of scholarships previously awarded. To be selected, among other things, participants must commit to working in a private practice or other optometric modality (including retail, corporate, medical, or onsite clinics) that serves a community with limited access to vision care. vspvision.com
Protecting Workers’ Eyes
A new report by the International Labour Organization (ILO) — the United Nations agency for the world of work — and the International Agency for the Prevention of Blindness (IAPB) has found more needs to be done to protect workers’ eye health. According to the report, 13 million people live with vision impairment linked to their work, with an estimated 3.5 million eye injuries occurring in the workplace every year; 1% of all non-fatal occupational injuries. Eye health significantly affects labor markets: workers with vision impairment are 30% less likely to be employed. Low- and middle-income regions experience about four times more cases than high-income regions. The study comes a month before World Sight Day. iapb.org
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