A New Contact Lens Material May Transform Corneal Wound Treatment

A cross-disciplinary team of researchers and doctors at the University of Waterloo (UW) are developing a new contact lens material that could change the way eyecare providers treat corneal wounds. The team, from the Centre for Ocular Research and Education (CORE), located within the School of Optometry & Vision Science and the Department of Chemical Engineering at the University, believe the new material, acting as a bandage for corneal wounds, could release drugs in a controlled manner to help the eye heal faster.

The National Average for Gross Revenue at ECP Locations Decreased for the Week of April 22–28, Jobson’s Latest Practice Performance Tracker Shows

NEW YORK—The national average for gross revenue at ECP locations decreased last week, April 22–28, when compared with the previous week at a rate of -2 index points. That places gross revenue at a level 5 index points above where it was at this point in time (Week 17) when compared with last year (2023), 11 points above the same period in 2022, 14 points above 2021, 102 points above 2020 (during COVID) and 19 points above 2019, according to Jobson’s most recent Practice Performance Tracker.

NECO Announces Honorary Degree Recipient, Presidential Medals, and Six Valedictorians for College’s 130th Commencement

BOSTON—The board of trustees at New England College of Optometry (NECO) has announced its honorary degree recipient, two Presidential Medal awardees, and six valedictorians as part of its 130th commencement exercises to be held on May 19, 2024, at Boston’s Symphony Hall. Myopia expert and research leader Jane Gwiazda, Ph.D., is the honorary degree recipient. Marge Axelrad, editorial director emeritus of Vision Monday and VMAIL, and Marc Ferrara, executive consultant for Jobson Optical Group, will receive the Presidential Medal awards.

Safilo North America Names Gabriele Cusani Sodano President and Chief Commercial Officer

SECAUCUS, N.J.—Safilo North America has announced the appointment of Gabriele Cusani Sodano as president and chief commercial officer, effective April 2024. Cusani brings a wealth of experience and a proven track record to succeed in this new role, which will focus on accelerating the implementation of the Group’s strategic plan in the North American market, the company stated. He joined Safilo in 2015 and has held various roles of increasing responsibility throughout his tenure, with experience that spans commercial strategy and planning, brand management, business development, sales operations and direct to consumer.

Bausch + Lomb Reports Strong Revenue Growth in Q1 2024, Updates Full-Year Guidance

VAUGHAN, Ontario—Bausch + Lomb Corporation (NYSE/TSX: BLCO), a leading global eye health company, has announced its first-quarter 2024 financial results. The company reported that revenue grew 18 percent (20 percent on a constant currency basis) compared with the first quarter of 2023, driven by growth across all business segments. The company also raised full-year 2024 constant currency revenue growth guidance to 13 percent to 15 percent and the full-year revenue range to between $4.600 billion and $4.700 billion.