ATLANTA—SECO International, the host of the world’s largest continuing education meeting for eyecare professionals, said its annual event drew a record number of first-time attendees this year. The five-day meeting, held for the first time in New Orleans, Feb. 20-24, also realized an increase in attendance by optometrists and students, according to an announcement. SECO 2019 featured more than 400 hours of continuing education, a 33 percent increase over previous years. The SECO 2019 newly enhanced continuing education program offered more than 70 courses for ODs and AHPs, expanded CE credit opportunities and exciting new course formats, the announcement noted.

“SECO 2019 hosted ophthalmic professionals in true New Orleans style as it provided them the best of leading-edge education, compelling networking opportunities, a dynamic show floor, and unmatched sights, sounds, flavors and more,” said J. Max Ernst, OD, newly installed president of SECO International LLC. “SECO 2019 delivered on its promise to reimagine offerings and, as a result, provided fresh new content and an inspiring platform to unite the community.”

He added, “As I step into the role of president, I look forward to continuing to move the needle and strive for continued innovation.”

Among the highlights of the 2019 meeting, according to the announcement:

* SECO accepted the Oklahoma Association of Optometric Physicians (OAOP) as the 13th state to join the association—the first member state addition to SECO International since the 1940s. SECO also welcomed Colegio de Optometristas de Costa Rica as an associated international organization.

* The See the Vision of Tomorrow forum provided insights on the current state of the optometric profession and the forces shaping its future.

* Several industry visionaries shared their insights during lectures throughout the event; including Dr. Ike Ahmed, MD. Dr. Ahmed took the SECO stage for the first time to discuss the latest developments with advanced microsurgical devices and techniques in glaucoma surgery, including indications, complications, and co-management.

* MedPRO360, SECO’s health care business management program, focused on the ins and outs of what it takes to manage a thriving and growing practice, from profitability and disruptive technologies to private equity and improving patient loyalty.

In addition, attendees explored the offerings of more than 900 leading brands and were able to get first-hand knowledge and hands-on interaction with the latest technology, products and styles.

In 2020, SECO will return to its Atlanta roots, back at the Georgia World Congress Center, March 4-8, 2020. SECO International is a wholly owned subsidiary of the Southern Council of Optometrists Inc.