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BiOptic Driving
Network - Background and Mission
We are a
registered non-profit organization founded in 2001 to serve the
needs and interests of those with stable low vision who may be able to drive
with a miniaturized telescope mounted in the [usually] upper half of a pair of
spectacles, a so-called BiOptic Telescope System [BTS]. Such people may include those with albinism, nystagmus, cataracts,
and corneal diseases, as well as macular degeneration, diabetic retinopathy, and
other conditions that affect the central macular area. We are particularly
active in the United States of America, the United Kingdom, the Netherlands, and
other EU nations.
Our mission includes the following:
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Fostering communication among all concerned with
BTS / low vision, and those interested in BiOptic driving.
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Encouraging critical / frank discussion, and review of
research / experience in both formal and informal settings.
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Increasing
the attention paid to, and acceptability of, BiOptic driving
within the vision research community.
We seek to provide technical and experiential information
about driving with a BTS, but not medical advice. We also seek to provide help
by exchange of information and ideas, guidance and counseling. We not only seek to serve those affected by
non-existent, or outdated
laws/policies concerning driving licensure, but also to provide useful
information to persons with a professional or personal interest. These
include ophthalmologists, optometrists, educators, researchers, and other
relevant private and public institutional personnel.
Membership
Those
with low vision, and anyone with an interest in
BTS / low-vision research,
who is
positive about advocating BTS for driving is encouraged
to
join. Our membership
consists of both "BiOptic drivers", would be "BiOptic
drivers", active researchers, rehabilitation professionals, ophthalmologists
and optometrists, academics [PhD's], and also includes developers of assistive
devices, agency administrators and consumers who are committed to promoting and
applying research.
History and Current Status
The
BiOptic Driving Network [a registered not for profit, voluntary organization] formed in 2001 as a result of those who have driven
previously finding they were no longer allowed to drive after moving/relocating
to an area or country that did not permit it. The network was originally
comprised of just such people but has steadily expanded with the help of
ophthalmologists, optometrists, researchers, and others who drive [or would
drive] with a
BTS. We continue to grow, internationally as
well as locally.
Client
Advocacy and Legislative Change
Are
you a consumer or professional interested in initiating legislative/policy
change to expand visual standards for driving including the allowance of BiOptic
telescopic lens systems in your State, Province or other locale? If so,
information is now available at the source indicated below relevant to the
following:
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Tips
for organizing advocacy groups
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How
to talk to legislators
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Testifying
at public hearings
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How
to get news coverage
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Basics
of effective lobbying
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Top
10 tips for disability policy agents on how to influence policy makers and
the policy making process
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Guidelines
for meeting with a policy maker
For
printed copies of the above contact us
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