Dr. William To and Dr. Katalina Yandell from Optical Illusions: An Optometric Practice were honored at the 2026 House of Delegates hosted by the the California Optometric Association (COA). Serving as two delegates of Santa Clara County Optometric Society (SCCOS), they also received special recognition from the American Optometric Association (AOA) with a prestigious AOA-PAC Champion medal as top supporters of AOA-PAC, placing them among the strongest advocates for optometry at the national level.
This recognition highlights their leadership not only in patient care, but also in protecting and advancing the profession of optometry through legislative advocacy.
What Is AOA-PAC and Why It Matters for Optometry
AOA-PAC is the federal political action committee of the American Optometric Association. Its mission is to advocate for policies that protect patient access to comprehensive eye exams, medical eye care, and full-scope optometric services. AOA-PAC works directly with members of Congress to support legislation that strengthens optometry nationwide. Its focus includes:
- Protecting patient access to comprehensive eye exams
- Supporting optometrists as primary eye care providers
- Expanding scope of practice where appropriate
- Improving Medicare and Medicaid policies
- Increasing access to eye care for veterans
- Reducing regulatory burdens on healthcare providers
Through consistent advocacy, AOA-PAC ensures optometry has a strong and respected voice in Washington.
Recent AOA Legislative Wins That Strengthen the Profession
In recent years, advocacy efforts supported by AOA-PAC and the American Optometric Association have contributed to major legislative and regulatory advancements. Key accomplishments include:
- Advancing federal recognition of optometrists as essential healthcare providers
- Supporting policies that protect patient choice in eye care
- Expanding access to comprehensive eye care services for veterans
- Strengthening reimbursement structures under federal healthcare programs
- Supporting modernization efforts that allow optometrists to practice at the highest level of their education and training
These wins directly impact how patients receive medical eye care across the country.
Why This Recognition Matters for Patients in California
Patients benefit when their optometrists are active leaders in organized optometry and federal advocacy.
Strong involvement at both the state and national levels helps ensure the continued access to comprehensive medical eye exams and protection of patient safety standards. This is also allow for Eerly detection of systemic health conditions through routine eye care and support for policies that improve healthcare access
Dr. To and Dr. Yandell’s recognition as AOA-PAC Champions reflects their commitment to protecting the future of optometry and ensuring patients continue receiving high-quality, full-scope eye care.
About Optical Illusions: An Optometric Practice
Dr. Will To and Dr. Kat Yandell’s AOA-PAC Champion medal recognition at the 2026 COA House of Delegates reinforces the practice’s mission to combine advanced eye care with leadership at the highest levels of organized optometry.
Optical Illusions: An Optometric Practice is known for strong leadership, community involvement, thorough comprehensive eye exams, and personalized care. Dr. To and Dr. Yandell are both known for their advanced eye care services in Diabetic Eye Disease, Glaucoma, Macular Degeneration, Dry Eye Therapy, Myopia Management, and Specialty Contact Lenses. Schedule an eye exam near me at 1 of our 4 conveniently located offices in San Jose, San Mateo, San Ramon, and Juneau.
