To celebrate our 40th year, Eyecare Business reached out to our board members and past #EBGameChangers for their thoughts on how eyewear and eye care have changed since our launch in 1986. Here are reflections from 2025 EB Game Changer, Janelle Davison, OD, founder of Brilliant Eyes Vision Center and Visionary Dry Eye Institute, both in Georgia, as well as cofounder of Paradeyem Software:
“Over the past 40 years, eye care has transformed remarkably. In my 20 years of practice—especially since 2006—I've watched optometry grow into a profession with greater responsibility, clinical reach, and impact than ever before. Technologies like optical coherence tomography and digital retinal imaging have made earlier, more accurate diagnoses possible, improving both efficiency and patient outcomes. Much of this didn't exist when I was in school, so I've spent years learning and adapting. I'm grateful for every bit of it, because these advances let me deliver the best care possible.
“Still, progress has come with real costs. Innovation hasn't improved access—quality eye care grows more expensive each year, putting it out of reach for too many patients. Reimbursements continue to fall, and the technology that elevates care carries steep price tags with thin ROI margins. Balancing patient needs against financial realities is a constant challenge.
“Even so, I remain hopeful. Optometry is moving in a positive direction, driven by professionals who truly care about the people they serve. Reflecting on how far we've come fills me with excitement for what lies ahead. I look forward to seeing—and being part of—what the next 40 years bring.”