The history of eye care and the optical market in the US over the past century has been remarkable, and remarkable times called for visionary optometrists and opticians. Together, these dedicated optometrists and opticians challenged the status quo to find innovative ways to provide consumers with the ophthalmic care, products and service they needed and desired, leading the way to an expanding optical marketplace. Working with providers, suppliers, regulators and consumers, over the years the National Association of Retail Optical Companies (NAROC) has helped to develop the industry and opportunities for individuals and organizations to grow within it through professionalism, consumerism and education. Read on about our continuing journey.
Throughout its history, NAROC has served as a committed participant in various efforts to grow the industry and help optometrists by building demand for eye care and eyewear. NAROC and its members have provided scholarships to numerous optometry students or provided grants directly to schools of optometry. They have funded opticianry programs at their schools, provided equipment for use by students and sponsored internships for opticians.
NAROC members have sponsored externships and employed optometry students in eye care assistant and optician roles as they studied to become licensed ODs, then participated in job fairs to speed their journey into the practice of optometry. In addition, they have:
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Organized and participated in innumerable charitable programs both in the US and internationally, bringing health care providers, equipment and eyewear for those without access to regular eye care.
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Through recruiting and sponsorships of optometrists and opticians for these numerous programs, provided worldwide experiences for providers and an opportunity to bring the gift of sight to many thousands around the world.