VSP has launched an online optical store, eyeconic.com, where consumers can go to buy contact lenses, browse sunwear and connect to a VSP provider. “It seems to me that we have a choice: either to figure out a way to create an online presence and have something to offer this growing category of patients, or simply let them slip away,” said Daniel Mannen, O.D., vice president of Optometric Programs for VSP Global.

Several months ago, Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences (MCPHS) announced it will launch a new optometry school. Now it has hired Lesley Walls, O.D., as its founding dean. Dr. Walls will be responsible for developing the professional optometric degree program, including oversight of the Accreditation Council on Optometric Education candidacy process, hiring faculty and planning the curriculum. MCPHS has also hired Kent Daum, O.D., who will serve as vice dean of the school.