Dr. Veronica Acuña is a certified doctor of optometry. She is a graduate of Nova Southeastern University where she earned her Doctor of Optometry degree with honors, graduating at the top 9% of her class. She entered NSU with a bachelors in Sociology/Anthropology and alongside her doctorate degree, received a second bachelors in Vision Science.
After graduation, Dr. Acuña elected to complete an optional optometric residency, an advanced postgraduate program with extensive clinical training in the diagnosis, treatment, and management of eye diseases. Her external rotations were alongside neuro-ophthalmologists, glaucoma, retinal, corneal, and oculoplastics specialists.
Dr. Acuña further pursued examinations and certifications from dual boards: American Board of Optometry and American Board of Medical Optometry. Both entities seek commitment to high standards, continuing education, and patient-centered care with the latter requiring full scope practice of medical optometry.
Doctor of Optometry (OD)
A Doctor of Optometry (OD) degree requires eight years of post-secondary education. This includes a four-year undergraduate degree after high school graduation, followed by four more years of optometry school.
After optometry school graduation, an addtional and optional one-year residency may be completed, focusing on areas such as ocular disease, contact lenses, pediatrics, low vision, and/or other fields.
American Board of Optometry (ABO)
The American Board of Optometry (ABO) is a professional organization in the United States that provides board certification for optometrists. ABO certification signifies that an optometrist has advanced knowledge and clinical skills beyond the minimum required for licensure.
It is a mark of distinction, demonstrating that the optometrist has achieved a high standard of care. Certification is voluntary but is widely respected in professional and academic circles. To date, the ABO has certified only about 4% of optometrists in general practice.
American Board Certification in Medical Optometry (ABCMO)
The American Board of Certification in Medical Optometry (ABCMO) is a professional board that certifies optometrists with advanced expertise in medical optometry. Board certification demonstrates competence beyond general optometric licensure in the management of ocular disease and recognizes optometrists who have achieved a high level of proficiency in medical eye care.
Certification is voluntary and signifies that an optometrist possesses specialized knowledge, advanced skills, and clinical competence in the practice of medical optometry. To date, the ABCMO has certified only about 1% of practicing optometrists.