JUNE 1, 2023
Founded five years ago, the Health Care Alliance for Patient Safety (HCAPS) is making good on its mission to advocate for patient safety and protect the fundamental doctor-patient relationship. The alliance’s advocacy will be recognized with the AOA’s Apollo Award during a ceremony at the 2023 Optometry’s Meeting® June 21-24.
A good reputation—and the respect and credibility that comes with it—can take some hard work and time to build. The Health Care Alliance for Patient Safety is putting in the work.
In March, the AOA announced it had awarded the alliance its Apollo Award, given to individuals and organizations for distinguished service to the visual welfare of the public.
“The Apollo is a unique award, which is why the AOA reserves it for those programs that truly distinguish themselves in upholding the visual welfare of the public,” AOA President Ronald L. Benner, O.D., says. “Thanks to the Health Care Alliance for Patient Safety—supported by patient-focused partners, Johnson and Johnson Vision, EssilorLuxottica, Alcon, CooperVision—the alliance has made strides in establishing itself as the steward for patients and is working to become a trusted resource at all levels, including both legislative and regulatory to elevate the importance of the doctor-patient relationship as the cornerstone of improved health and wellness.”
Says HCAPS Executive Director Ralph Kohl: “The award is validation that the alliance is doing the right thing. The American Optometric Association is not just a partner. It’s the leading vision safety organization in the world. To have their membership recognize the alliance for all the hard work we are putting in is definitely gratifying and validating, and it confirms to us that we are doing valuable work."