David M. Redman, OD, (center) receiving the Optometrist of the Year honor from the California Optometric Association.
SACRAMENTO, Calif.—The California Optometric Association (COA) has named David M. Redman, OD, Optometrist of the Year for 2017. Redman, who is a practicing optometrist and partner in Precision Eyecare Centers in San Jose and Mountain View 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, 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 eyecare to countless needy patients, and improved access to care throughout California.”

The honors recognize Redman’s contributions to the field of eye health which include leadership in the COA where he served as president from 2008 to 2009. “Redman’s advocacy on behalf of the profession resulted in a landmark California laws 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,” the association said.

Additionally, Redman has been a part of organizing and participating in numerous vision care clinics, serving on the board of the Salud Para La Gente clinics and on the first five San Benito Children’s and Family Commission. His public service also includes appearances on the San Francisco Bay Area’s NBC affiliate channel KNTV to educate viewers about dry eye and children’s vision issues.

"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 Dr. 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."