(PRESS RELEASE) SACRAMENTO, CA – The California Optometric Association announced that it has named Dr. David M. Redman, O.D., as its “Optometrist of the Year” for 2017. Redman is a practicing optometrist and partner in Precision Eyecare Centers in San Jose and Mountain View. Redman is also COA’s past president and current chair of the legislative and regulatory committee.
“The California Optometric Association is pleased to recognize Dr. David Redman’s commitment to Californians’ eye heath and to improving access to health for California’s underserved populations,” said Dr. Ranjeet S. Bajwa, president of the California Optometric Association. “In addition to his leadership within the practice of optometry and in patient care, Dr. Redman has had a tremendous influence in his community that extends far beyond the exam room. Through his generous commitment of time and talent in service of the public, Dr. Redman has strengthened educational opportunities for young people, delivered eye care to countless needy patients, and improved access to care throughout California.”
The award recognizes Redman’s contributions to the field of eye health, including leadership in the California Optometric Association, where he served as president from 2008-09. Redman’s advocacy on behalf of the profession resulted in a landmark California law that protected optometrists’ independent judgment in serving patients and expanded optometrists’ roles in treating glaucoma and caring for diabetic patients. He has also been a leading voice in the effort to expand eyecare access to school-age children.
“So much of our learning is done through the eyes, and that’s why I’m so passionate about ensuring every child has the opportunity to see clearly,” said Redman. “It’s an honor to share the opportunity for sight with children and adults throughout our region and to help shape California laws to expand access to eyecare and health.”
Redman’s public service has included organizing and participating in vision care clinics, serving on the board of Salud Para La Gente clinics and on the First 5 San Benito Children’s and Family Commission. It also includes numerous appearances on the San Francisco Bay Area NBC affiliate channel KNTV, educating viewers on dry eye and children’s vision issues.