An Opportunity to Publish!

Résumé

There is a saying in academia - "Publish or Perish". In essence, it means that promotion and tenure, in the university world, depends upon research by individuals and the publication of their findings.

In the less formal world of clinical practice, all practitioners have an opportunity to publish if they wish to undertake research projects, to report on unusual case findings or to present a literature search of a particular topic. Unfortunately, few clinicians feel inclined to take up the pen for the benefit of their colleagues.

There is, however, a group of practitioners who have a real opportunity to contribute to optometric literature. Not only can these optometrists enhance the reputation of the profession by their sub­missions, they can also enhance their own knowledge and reputations as writers and teachers. Let us not forget that "what is conceived clearly will be expressed clearly."

I am referring to those Canadian optometrists who have applied for membership in the American Academy of Optometry. As part of their admission requirements, they must prepare ten case reports dealing with a number of different ocular and visual conditions taken from their office files. Experience has shown that these case reports are usually exceptional conditions or routine cases which have been treated in an exceptional manner. The preparation of such reports can be very demanding, particularly for those who are not gifted writers. It is a pity that their efforts should be read, for the most part, by such a limited audience. In many situations, Academy candidates fail to recognize that their reports could benefit some colleagues in helping them to better manage similar problems in their own offices.

The Canadian Journal of Optometry invites all Academy Fellows, whether new or long-term holders of the Fellowship, to select one or two from their Academy reports and submit them for publication. And may we note that, in so doing, "You may become your colleagues' keeper!"