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ALEXANDRIA, Va.—The Health Care Alliance for Patient Safety (APS) announced Alcon, a global leader in eyecare, as its newest member. “APS partners and patient safety advocates are excited to have Alcon join our effort to advance patient safety and strengthen the doctor-patient relationship, which is the foundation of personalized health care,” said Deanna Alexander, OD, chairwoman of APS. “As a leader in eyecare, Alcon’s voice will be instrumental in our effort to advance policies that surround patient safety.”

Alcon offers a broad range of eyecare products and devices, from a complete line of contact lenses, lens care and ocular health products to intraocular lenses, ophthalmic surgical equipment and related products. Founded over 70 years ago in Fort Worth, Texas, the company employs over 20,000 associates in 74 countries, supplying medical professionals who treat patients in over 140 countries.

Alcon joins APS as an associate partner alongside CooperVision and leadership partners Johnson & Johnson Vision and the American Optometric Association.

“Alcon is pleased to join APS in our common goal to enhance policies that protect patients’ vision safety,” said Rick Weisbarth, OD, and vice president of professional affairs for Alcon U.S. Vision Care. “Together with fellow APS members and dedicated health care providers across the country, Alcon is committed to working collaboratively with policymakers to promote the safe, healthy and effective use of medical devices to improve patient health outcomes.” Alcon’s membership in APS is effective Dec.1, 2020.

The Health Care Alliance for Patient Safety, founded in 2018, advocates for eye health and safety and elevates the doctor-patient relationship, which it characterizes as “the essential foundation of personal health care decision making.” Members of the organization, which is made up of patient safety advocates, eye doctors, and contact lens manufacturers, work together to raise awareness and protect public health.