In the News

Reading. Electrified.

I read 70-80 books a year. And a couple blogs. And a couple journals. And the Times every morning. Lately I’ve been very curious about the booming e-reader market. It’s grown past early adopting techies and has moved into the territory of casual and serious readers. Despite all the advantages of e-readers, many book lovers (including me) have many hesitations toward anything that could disrupt their reading rituals. As the holiday shopping season approaches, one can be sure that there will be a major marketing blitz for these new devices. Here is some information regarding how we read and what changes e-readers cause.

Let’s start with a small history lesson. Up through the 5th century BCE, oral speeches were the most common modality for delivering information. Around this time early adopters began to write down the speeches on scrolls in order to continually ponder on them. For a long period this caused great uproar from governmental, religious, and cultural authorities. 2000 years ago written essays and lectures began to enjoy wide cultural appeal due to their superior distribution, time-shifting, and reproducibility characteristics. Then in 1450 Gutenberg developed the printing press and set in motion a dominant reading paradigm that’s lasted over 500 years. Today this is beginning to change with the onset of new digital devices.

How does the eye read? It does not scroll along a line of text smoothly like a rolling ball. Instead it moves in a coordinated series of movements known as saccades, fixations, and regressions. The eye jumps to a small block of text (a saccadic movement), fixates for a given amount of time, and then jumps to the next small block of text (another saccade). Sometimes, the eye errantly jumps backwards instead of forwards. This is known as a regression, and even expert readers make regressive movements up to 15% of the time. The additive effect of these 3 movements is processed by the brain as smoothly reading a line of text. One Swiss study revealed that the number of regressive eye movement was equal between e-readers and paper book on a per person level. Also, the mean fixation time decreased when a reader moved from paper books to e-readers. This means that people read slightly (albeit negligibly) faster and with the same accuracy when they use an e-reader. People certainly do not “read worse” with an electronic reader as compared to traditional books.

The eye also has a couple of reflexes that change the optics of the visual system while we read. When we look at near objects, the lens swells to add more magnification to the optical system. Deficiencies in this area are experienced as eye strain. Every reader’s eye strain will be the same regardless if they read from paper books or e-readers. If eye strain is a problem for you, be sure to visit your doctor for relief.

E-ink readers (like the Kindle) have a slightly lower contrast ratio compared to paper books. This means to read at the same efficiency, those reading with these devices need more light than when they read with paper. E-readers with a LCD screen (like the iPad) work well in dark and normal lighting conditions. They are harder to use in bright light and 100% impossible to use with polarized sunglasses.

Several marketing studies have shown that people actually read more when they use an e-reader. By more, I mean 40-55% more depending on the study! That is an awesome benefit. They have especially boosted the interest and number of books read by the 6 to 17 year old demographic – an age group where reading is dangerously low. Personally, I just bought my first e-reader and really love my experience with it. My news consumption is certainly higher, and I’m reading approximately 1 extra book a week. I have no idea why, but subjectively reading is a bit more fun too. Send me an email if you’d like to talk about e-readers (or books!!), how they impact the eye, or are just curious about getting one.

Spencer Ritenour, O.D.

dr.ritenour@parkslopeeye.com

10/01/2010 | Categories: In the News | Tags: e-reader | 2 Comments »

Acuvue TruEye contacts

Recently there has been a press release announcing a recall of the popular 1-Day Acuvue TruEye contact lenses. It’s very important to note that this recall solely affects lenses manufactured in Japan and a few other European and Asian countries. The TruEye lenses manufactured and distributed in the US are completely unaffected. The problem occurred on one manufacturing line that produces contacts for Asian distribution. It was remedied immediately.

At Park Slope Eye we have had remarkably high patient satisfaction rates with all of the Acuvue contacts that we fit – especially the TruEye lens. In addition to having an amazing safety profile and being extremely comfortable, the TruEye lens was recently certified as being in the highest class of UV blocking contacts. I have personally visited Acuvue’s world headquarters, their North American R&D division, and their North American manufacturing plant. Their industrial processes at every stage of contact lens development are state of the art.

If you are interested in trying TruEyes, I would be more than happy to fit you with a pair. Of course if another lens is more appropriate for your needs and eye health, we can try those instead.

09/11/2010 | Categories: Contact Lenses, In the News | 3 Comments »

A Day in the Life of a Park Slope Eye Patient Liaison – Ana

A Day in the Life of a Park Slope Eye Patient Liaison

Posted by Dr. Bazan, Optometrist and Owner of Park Slope Eye

Continuing with our “Day in the Life of a Park Slope Eye Employee” series is Ana from the Park Slope Eye Patient Liaison team. Based in Park Slope Eye’s Brooklyn New York office, Ana talks about how she helps patients and clients have an exceptional experience.

What did you do before coming to Park Slope Eye?
I was a manager for an athletic apparel company.

How did you first hear about Park Slope Eye and the job opening?
I was good friends of Dr. Bazan from a previous job.

What’s your title at Park Slope Eye and how long have you been with the company?
I work the front desk. I have been a member of the team for 3 months

What comprises a typical day for you?
Everyday I get to help patients with any insurance questions they may have. I also make sure the patient feels comfortable. Making and confirming appointments are a big part of my job title as well.

What’s the BEST part of working for Park Slope Eye?
Making patients happy! Putting a smile on there faces and knowing that they would like to come back to see us makes my day so much better.

What is your favorite perk at Park Slope Eye?
When ever we have a patient who was referred to us by another patient makes everything I do wroth it.

What has been your favorite memory at Park Slope Eye?
We went out to Boston for a conference. After the conference we had a wonderful store meeting in a great restaurant. It was nice for all of us to get together out side of the office.

What separates Park Slope Eye from other places you’ve worked?
When I worked in retail it was a very fast paced environment. We didn’t have any time to have one on one with a customer. Here at Park Slope Eye we like to make sure that our patients are having the best experience. We also like to make sure that all their needs are being met.

Finally, what would be your one piece of advice for someone interested in becoming a Patient Liaison?

One piece of advice for someone who would like to become a receptionist would be Customer Service. Try your best to work hard at what you do. Having a great personality goes a very long way.

Park Slope Eye is located in Brooklyn, NY. For more info contact Justin Bazan, OD, the optometrist of Park Slope Eye, at Dr.Bazan@ParkSlopeEye.com or visit www.ParkSlopeEye.com Also, check us out on Yelp!, Twitter and FaceBook.

12/21/2009 | Categories: In the News | Leave A Comment »

Americans are getting Blurry!

Wow! Nearsightedness has gone from a quarter of all Americans, to almost half of all Americans in just a few decades. What gives? I was just discussing this point today with a patient. What are your thoughts? Is it really all of the near work we are doing with computers, phones and video games? Check out the video below or read the article here: Study Finds Many More Nearsighted Americans

12/16/2009 | Categories: In the News | Leave A Comment »

A Day in the Life of a Park Slope Eye Optician

Posted by Dr. Bazan, Optometrist and Owner of Park Slope Eye

Starting off our “Day in the Life of a Park Slope Eye Employee” series is Yasmin from the Park Slope Eye Optician team. Based in Park Slope Eye’s Brooklyn New York office, Yasmin talks about how she helps patients and clients find incredible eyewear.

What did you do before coming to Park Slope Eye?
I managed a Solstice Sunglass boutique in Beverly Hills, Ca

How did you first hear about Park Slope Eye and the job opening?
Through social media! I saw the add on Craigslist and responded via Twitter.

What’s your title at Park Slope Eye and how long have you been with the company?
I am the head Optician here and have been a member of the team for 4 months.

What comprises a typical day for you?
Everyday I get to help ensure people end up excited over their incredible eyewear and ensure they have an awesome experience. Part of my daily grind is making sure the lab is doing the best job of grinding your glasses and that our frame gallery is beautiful.

What’s the BEST part of working for Park Slope Eye?
The opportunity to help grow and grow with this company as it is still new. I also love being able to just do what I do I do best. I also enjoy learning new things.

What is your favorite perk at Park Slope Eye?
Every time we are noted for going above and beyond, really exemplifying something extraordinary, we get some cold hard cash! To see some examples check out our Yelp!

What has been your favorite memory at Park Slope Eye?
We took a trip up to Boston for a conference on how to deliver 5 Star customer service. The whole trip was an adventure, especially the crazy drive home!

What separates Park Slope Eye from other places you’ve worked?
I always say until I came here I was a spoiled optician. Even though I was a manager, things were always set up to be done a certain way (very black and white). Here, a lot of time it is up to me to come up with the solution and/or make the corporate decision. It’s a huge challenge,but the results are very rewarding. Dr. B has a standard for a level of service that’s unparalleled. What sets him apart is that he REALLY has a passion for his craft, and helping people unlike anything I’ve seen in quite some time.

Finally, what would be your one piece of advice for someone interested in becoming an Optician?
You have to be very versatile and wear a lot of hats! Customer service, administration, lab work, and the clinical parts are all equally important. You HAVE TO love what you do, or it can become a bit overwhelming.

12/08/2009 | Categories: In the News | Leave A Comment »

Dr. Bazan Joins the Ocular Surface Society of Optometry!

OSSO is a non-profit, independent organization founded in 2008. The mission of this organization is to increase the awareness and advance the understanding and management of dry eye and ocular surface disease among optometric practitioners, industry, and researchers.

07/10/2009 | Categories: In the News | Leave A Comment »

The Slope is talking!

Have you heard what people have been saying about PSEye?

05/21/2009 | Categories: In the News | Leave A Comment »

Park Slope Parents reccomends Park Slope Eye

Park Slope Parents is a great resource for raising children in Park Slope. Guess who is on their list of recommended optometrists?

Here is what a recent PSParent had to say about PSEye:

Author: Review from Yahoo Group

Date: 2009-05-15 09:20:07

I have been wearing contact lenses for many years and recently began
to have discomfort. I mentioned this to my eye doctor in Brooklyn
Heights whom I had been seeing for many years and they suggested that
it was due to age and/or the eyes rejection of contact lenses. They
offered to do a lense fitting but it was costly and it would take time
to get another appointment. Before ditching contacts completely, I
decided to try Park Slope Eye and am very glad I did. They have a
wonderful facility and staff. The office is clean, friendly and very
helpful. Mary offered to check with my insurance and see what
benefits I receive (while also offering me a drink). Dr. Bazan gave
me a very thorough eye exam and had me walking out with two different
and very comfortable lenses to try. Not only did he fit me with the
appropriate eye wear but he was also clearly knowledgeable about eye
care and informed with up-to-date information on contact lenses. I
will not look for another eye doctor again! I highly recommend this
eye care establishment.

05/17/2009 | Categories: In the News | Leave A Comment »

Thank You for Following Park Slope Eye on FaceBook and Twitter

Park Slope Eye is lucky to have such tech savy people as our patients and clients. Social networking is a great way to stay up on what we are doing and it allows you to take advantage of exclusive offers. Thank You for you continued support both in and out of PSEye.

05/01/2009 | Categories: In the News | Leave A Comment »

How contagious is my pink eye? When can I go back to work? school?

Most contagious pink eyes are viral or bacterial in nature. If it is bacterial in nature, we treat it with strong antibiotics and in a day or so, you are no longer contagious and the eye is well on its way to making a full recovery. If its viral in nature, it is likely from the highly contagious adenovirus. Unfortunately, antibiotics do not work on viral pink eye, and you will often remain highly contagious for several days.

Park Slope Eye knows that you need to know how contagious you are so you can plan appropriately and so that our doctors can treat and manage your condition appropriately. Nobody wants to hear that they caused a pink eye out break at home, work or school! PSEye has acquired the RPS Adeno Detector to aid assuring that does not occur. The RPS Adeno Detector is a quick, painless, in office test that will aid in determining if your pink eye stems from the highly contagious adenovirus.

Knowing that you have viral pink eye you have will save you from buying costly antibiotics, help to stop the spread of the highly contagious virus, allow you to inform work/school of your absence, and allow you to receive the apporiate treatment. PSEye feels that those things are pretty important, and we encourage you to ask your eye care provider if they have the ability to test to determine which type of pink eye you really have.

04/30/2009 | Categories: In the News, Patient Education, Q & A | Leave A Comment »

Dr. Bazan to Serve as Board Examiner

Dr. Bazan is delighted to accept his assignment as an Examiner for the National Board Clinical Skills Examination. Examiners make a major contribution to the assessment of competence for the practice of optometry. Please excuse my absence from Park Slope Eye on 4/25 and 4/26.

03/10/2009 | Categories: In the News | Leave A Comment »

Contact Lens Recycling Program

Park Slope Eye is proud to announce that we will now be recycling used contact lens blister packs (see above). Blister packs are made of polypropylene as denoted by the #5 recycle symbol. Unfortunately, you can not currently place these with your other plastic recyclables because there is no NYC Dept. of Sanitation program to recycle them.

Save them up, and bring them by. I will ensure their delivery to the proper recycling facility. Just please remember to remove the foil from the plastic. Don’t forget the foil can go with your regular metal recyclables!

02/20/2009 | Categories: Contact Lenses, In the News | 5 Comments »

Doc, Why Can't I See 3-D!

3-d, really impressive 3-d is almost upon us in a big way. Hopefully all of us will be able to enjoy the amazing images without issue. Some of us, may be wondering what the heck is just so impressive and find ourselves not really noticing much difference. But why? In order for you to appreciate the 3-d, your eyes must be aiming and focusing appropriately and as a team. If they are unable to do so, you will be unable to view in 3-d. Time for an eye exam?

To read more, click on the above pic.

01/31/2009 | Categories: In the News | Leave A Comment »

Dr. Nathan Bonilla-Warfords Second Annual Top Ten New Year's Resolutions

Dr. Bonilla-Warford of Bright Eyes did another great job of generating a Top Ten New Year’s Resolution list. Below is the article which can also be found at his outstanding blog,
http://brighteyesnews.com/
. Great Job!

The Top Ten New Year’s Resolutions for Children Vision

By brighteyesnews

fireworks

It is that time of year again. Time for finishing off those holiday cookies and preparing for a happier, healthier, more prosperous new year. A year ago I posted the Ten New Year’s Resolutions for Your Eye Heath. This year I will turn my attention to children’s vision. So without further ado…

The Top Ten New Year’s Resolutions for Children Vision

1) Read up on children’s vision

There are some wonderfully informative websites about children’s vision and visual development. Check them out at Optometrist Network, College of Optometrists in Vision Development, Childrensvision.com, Parents Active in Vision Education, Optometric Extension Program Foundation, and many others.

2) Spend Some Quality Vision Time With Your Kids

One of the best things you can do is simply spend some time reading books and doing homework with your children. Watch them and talk to them about what they are seeing and what if feels like when they read. Compare what you find with this symptom checklist.

3) Have Their Eyes and Vision Examined

Have your children had an full eye exam? (A simple screenings done at school or the pediatrician doesn’t count.) If they haven’t, then make 2009 the year. The American Optometric Association recommends the first eye exam at age six months, followed by age three years and then before entering school. This exam should be thorough and evaluate all aspects of vision. You can find additional useful information about this at the Vision First Foundation.

4) Bring Their Glasses in for Adjustment and Cleaning

All children who wear glasses - especially boys – get them bent up a little bit. Sometimes a lot. Often the temples are crooked and the nosepads are flattened down. Don’t hesitate to come by Bright Eyes and have the staff adjust and clean their glasses. You might be amazed how much difference it can make!

5) Consider Contacts

Many parents think that their children are too young for contacts. Sometimes they are correct that the child and family simply are not ready for contacts. However, contacts frequently provide better vision than glasses and is the best option for a child – if the parents are ready. You can read my post about this here.

6) Consider the Need for Sports Eye Protection

Many of my young patients participate in organized supports such as baseball, football, or basketball. For these patients, prescription sports goggles are a good idea. First, their use will limit sports-related eye injuries. Second, the improved vision sports eyewear provide may significantly improve their performance on the field.

7) Ensure They are Using Good Visual Ergonomics

Most people are familiar with ergonomics to help them function more comfortable and efficiently. This also applies to vision. Ensure that your kids take frequent breaks from activities such as reading and video games. Watch to see if they hold books or video games very close, which can cause eye strain. When reading and writing a slant-board is helpful. Read more here.

Have them wear their sunglasses.

We live Florida. It is sunny, even in January. Most of my patients have sunglasses and most of their kids do, too. But parents often forget to have their kids wear them. They’ll go outside and put on the SPF 45 sunblock – which is a good idea – but then forget the eye protection. It is not too early to start preventing problems!

9) Myopia Progression

If you are concerned about your child’s rapid development of nearsightedness, there may be some options to consider. First, Precise Corneal Reshaping may not only temporarily eliminates nearsightedness, but has been shown in studies to reduce progression of myopia. Additionally, some children may benefit from additional options such as bifocal glasses, bifocal contacts, or vision therapy. Only a comprehensive eye exam can indicate what is most appropriate.

10) Pass this along to anyone who has kids!

If you know a family member or has children, pass this info along. Especially if there are visual problems in the family.

I hope everyone has a fantastic 2009! If you have any questions about this list, or anything else eye-related, feel free to call 813-792-0637 or stop by the office.

Dr. Bonilla-Warford
Bright Eyes Family Vision Care

01/03/2009 | Categories: In the News, Patient Education | Leave A Comment »

Use It or Lose It! Insurance and Flex Spending

moneywallet Both medical and vision insurance coverage often reset come January 1st. Now that recession has hit, why not take advantage of those benefits before they are lost?!?!?!

Do you have an FSA, flexible spending account, which requires you to use up the allocated funds by the years end? If you don’t spend it, consider it part of the bail out plan! flushing-money-down-the-dra

Unsure about what exactly you might have coming towards you? Just give Park Slope Eye a call and we will figure it out for you.

12/26/2008 | Categories: In the News | Leave A Comment »

Improve Your Life in 2009

Get Your Eyes Checked
Failing vision can be a symptom of other health problems
By Kenneth Terrell
Posted December 18, 2008

If the last time you had your eyes checked was when you renewed your driver’s license years ago, you could be cruising for trouble. The American Optometric Association recommends that adults get their eyes checked every two years (or every year for those ages 61 and older). Yet in a 2007 survey the group conducted, 35 percent of the respondents who do not use corrective lenses admitted that they haven’t had their eyes checked in five years or more (22 percent said they have never had their eyes checked by a specialist). And that’s despite the fact that nearly half of those surveyed said they feared blindness more than losing their memory, hearing, or the ability to walk.

Regular eye exams can help you stay ahead of vision problems like glaucoma and macular degeneration. But an eye exam has benefits beyond preserving your vision. Failing eyesight can be a sign of other illnesses. In some people, a comprehensive eye exam can detect serious illnesses including diabetes, multiple sclerosis, and some cancers.

12/23/2008 | Categories: In the News | Leave A Comment »

Brain Fitness 2: Sight & Sound | PBS

Brain Fitness 2: Sight & Sound | PBS

This should be a very interesting program to watch…not to mention Park Slope Eye got a few seconds of screen time!

12/01/2008 | Categories: In the News | Leave A Comment »

Justin Bazan, OD Receives 2008 Best of Brooklyn Award

Don’t get too excited folks. It appeas to be a “vanity scam”. Just for kicks, take a look at the press release and the award plaque (for purchase)! Justin Bazan, OD is the best optometrist in Brooklyn

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Justin Bazan, OD Receives 2008 Best of Brooklyn Award

U.S. Local Business Association’s Award Plaque Honors the Achievement

WASHINGTON D.C., September 29, 2008 – Justin Bazan, OD has been selected for the 2008 Best of Brooklyn Award in the Optometrists category by the U.S. Local Business Association (USLBA).

The USLBA “Best of Local Business” Award Program recognizes outstanding local businesses throughout the country. Each year, the USLBA identifies companies that they believe have achieved exceptional marketing success in their local community and business category. These are local companies that enhance the positive image of small business through service to their customers and community.

Various sources of information were gathered and analyzed to choose the winners in each category. The 2008 USLBA Award Program focused on quality, not quantity. Winners are determined based on the information gathered both internally by the USLBA and data provided by third parties.

About U.S. Local Business Association (USLBA)

U.S. Local Business Association (USLBA) is a Washington D.C. based organization funded by local businesses operating in towns, large and small, across America. The purpose of USLBA is to promote local business through public relations, marketing and advertising.

The USLBA was established to recognize the best of local businesses in their community. Our organization works exclusively with local business owners, trade groups, professional associations, chambers of commerce and other business advertising and marketing groups. Our mission is to be an advocate for small and medium size businesses and business entrepreneurs across America.

SOURCE: U.S. Local Business Association

CONTACT:
U.S. Local Business Association
Email: PublicRelations@USLBA.net
URL: http://www.USLBA.net

09/29/2008 | Categories: In the News | Leave A Comment »

AOA recommends resting eyes periodically to avoid computer vision syndrome.

In continuing coverage from previous editions of First Look, WLEX-TV Lexington (9/26), an NBC affiliate, reported that hours spent “peering at computer screens, televisions, hand-held devices, cell phones,” and GPS monitors may lead to “dry eyes, irritation, blurred vision, double vision, headache, and tiredness.” To help avoid “this group of symptoms,” referred to as “computer vision syndrome,” the “American Optometric Association (AOA) recommends resting your eyes for 15 minutes after working continuously for two hours on an electronic screen. In addition, every 20 minutes, look up from the screen and refocus your eyes on a distant object.” In addition, computer users should “reduce the wattage in desk lamps and adjust window blinds to cut down on screen glare.” Some people “may want to try over-the-counter eye drops known as ‘artificial tears,’” which “are available as lubricated, saline, homeopathic, and other types. Using a humidifier may also help.”
In an “Insider Medicine in 60″ video segment on Insider Medicine (9/26), Susan Sharma, M.D., reported that, “according to researchers from the University of Ulster, most people blink about 15 times a minute, but staring at a computer screen can reduce that by up to two-thirds. Blinking spreads tears across the eye and removes irritants, and insufficient blinking can lead to a condition called ‘dry eye,’ which can cause infection and sight loss.”

09/29/2008 | Categories: In the News | Leave A Comment »

Avaira

If you have to wear a reusable contact, you may find your doctor prescribing a new contact called Avaira. For my patients in which a daily disposable is not the best option, the Avaira often is. Check out the infomercial about this exciting new product.
http://www.coopervision.tv/avaira.shtml

09/21/2008 | Categories: Contact Lenses, In the News | Leave A Comment »

VSP Partners with Justin Bazan, OD of Park Slope Eye

Justin Bazan, OD, the eye doctor of Park Slope Eye in Brooklyn, NY is now accepting VSP.

09/05/2008 | Categories: In the News | Leave A Comment »

-=Computer Care=-

How many of you spend hours upon hours working at the computer?

Tired, sore, dry eyes? Headaches? Achey muscles?

WorkRave is a free program that will help you. It will force you take an essential break from your computer. Feel the RELIEF!

Here are my personal settings:

First, open preferences. Then select:

Micro break – enable timer checked, prompt before breaking checked, maximum number of prompts: 3, show ‘postpone’ and ‘skip’ button UNCHECKED, Suspend timer when inactive Checked.
Timer: Time between breaks: 20 min, break duration 20 sec, postpone time 2 min.

Rest break – enable timer checked, prompt before breaking checked, maximum number of prompts: 3, show ‘postpone’ and ‘skip’ button UNCHECKED, Suspend timer when inactive Checked.
Timer: Time between breaks:

1 hour, break duration 5 min, postpone time 2 min.

Daily Limit – Enable timer Unchecked

User Interface – Block Mode: Block input and screen, Start Workrave on Windows startup Checked

09/02/2008 | Categories: In the News, Patient Education | 1 Comment »

Park Slope Eye in a PBS Documentary

A production crew was filming on location today. The footage will be used in a new documentary on the brain and visual processing which is scheduled to air on PBS. It is the follow up to the critically acclaimed documentary, “The Brain Fitness Program”.