Bringing the Future into Focus at AAO 2025

There’s nothing quite like the energy of the American Academy of Ophthalmology (AAO) annual meeting — the conversations, the innovation, and the shared passion for advancing patient care. This year’s event was no exception. The Nextech team hit the ground running in Orlando, Fla., connecting with thousands of physicians, administrators, and industry peers who are shaping the future of ophthalmology. 

And while every trade show leaves you inspired, AAO 2025 felt different. It felt like a turning point. 

Introducing Nextech Cora, Our AI Assistant 

One of the biggest moments for us at this year’s conference was unveiling Nextech Cora™, our new AI assistant designed to help ophthalmologists work more efficiently and focus on patient care. 

From streamlining charting and reducing administrative burden to helping providers capture more complete documentation in real time, Cora represents a major leap forward in how AI can be safely and effectively integrated into the clinical workflow. 

Attendees got a first look at how Cora’s scribe capability uses ambient intelligence to listen, learn, and adapt to each provider, not as a replacement, but as a true clinical companion. The excitement and curiosity from our booth visitors said it all: Ophthalmologists are ready for practical, trustworthy AI that makes their day easier. 

Insights from the Experts: Dr. Handza on AI in Practice 

We were also honored to have Nextech’s Chief Medical Officer, Dr. Jason Handza, participate in a panel on “AI Innovation.” He shared his perspective on how artificial intelligence is beginning to transform ophthalmology, from diagnostics and workflow automation to enhanced patient outcomes. 

“We have our users who are very efficient on our software. We had to figure how to make that experience better and not just give them a shiny new toy just to say ‘I have AI,’” Handza said during the panel session. “We've created a truly bidirectional interface that enhances and is true to the experience our users already have in the EHR. They already like what they're using. We're making it better.” 

Dr. Handza’s session underscored a message that resonated with everyone in the room: AI isn’t just the future, it’s already here, and it’s helping providers reclaim valuable time while delivering even better care. 

The interactive discussion gave attendees a chance to ask real-world questions about integration, efficiency, and patient impact — the topics that matter most to today’s ophthalmologists. 

Consulting with Amanda Sainato: Reducing Practice Risk with Financial Controls 

Another highlight from our booth was the consulting session led by Vice President of Consulting Services Amanda Sainato, who shared her expertise on how ophthalmology practices can reduce financial risk through stronger internal controls. 

Amanda’s discussion dove into the at times overlooked side of practice management, the financial operations that underpin stability and growth. From reconciling payments and monitoring revenue leakage to setting clear accountability across teams, she outlined practical steps practices can take to protect their bottom line. 

Attendees appreciated Amanda’s candid insights and real-world strategies, especially at a time when financial oversight is becoming just as critical as clinical excellence. Her session reinforced an essential truth: A healthy financial foundation is key to sustaining both compliance and patient care quality. 

Brand Recognition Across the Industry 

It was also an exciting moment to hear Nextech’s name mentioned in other presentations focused on AI’s growing role in ophthalmology. Being part of that broader industry dialogue, even outside our own sessions, was both validating and energizing. 

It’s clear that AI, automation, and data-driven insights are top of mind for everyone in the field right now, and Nextech is proud to be at the forefront of those conversations. 

Looking Ahead: Shaping the Future of Ophthalmology 

As I reflect on AAO 2025, one theme stands out: progress through partnership. The conversations we had – with customers, partners, and peers – reaffirmed that ophthalmology is entering a new era of technology-driven care, and Nextech is leading the way. 

From our new AI capabilities to our continued investment in workflow innovation, we’re focused on building solutions that empower providers, enhance the patient experience, and future-proof practices for what’s next. 

To everyone who stopped by our booth or joined one of our sessions, thank you. We left inspired, energized, and more committed than ever to helping ophthalmologists work smarter, deliver exceptional care, and thrive in a changing landscape. 

If this truly was a turning point, then let’s shape a better future together! 

One Solution Built for How You Practice 

Learn how Nextech’s platform was built to fit the unique workflows of ophthalmology practices like yours.