Access Media has been commissioned to create a new version of the Contact Lens Manufacturers Association’s website for consumers.

The site educates consumers about the benefits of GP contact lenses, and includes information on related topics such as bifocal contacts.  The site also features helpful videos about GP lens care and handling.

It’s anticipated that the new version of the site will incorporate topics such as ortho-k and post-surgical contact lenses.  They’re not currently covered on the CLMA’s site, although Access Media has covered the topics on All About Vision.

Access Media built the current site in 1998, and although content updates have been made the design remains largely unaltered — so it’s overdue for a remodel.  The new site is expected to debut at www.contactlenses.org sometime in the first quarter of 2009.

Dr. Gary Heiting, a veteran of clinical optometric practice, the eyewear industry, and online publishing, has been named Associate Editor of All About Vision.

Dr. Heiting has been a Contributing Editor to All About Vision since April 2007, and has updated content and generated new articles on a variety of topics.  In his new role, he will have responsibility for the content sections on contact lenses, eyeglass lenses, eye safety, eye exams, vision insurance, computer vision, nutrition, and teens’ and children’s vision.

Dr. Heiting was in clinical practice for ten years when, in 1993, he joined Pentax Vision as a Product Manager.  He later served as Director of Product Development, Education and Professional Relations.  In 1999, he co-founded OpticalAdvisor.com, an online portal providing consumers with advice on eye care topics.

In 2001, Dr. Heiting participated in the startup of a refractive surgery practice, where for six years he provided consultations and pre- and post-operative care.  In June 2006, Dr. Heiting launched Lasik Surgery News to provide consumers with comprehensive information about developments in refractive surgery.  The website was acquired by an affiliate of Access Media Group, publisher of All About Vision, earlier this year.

Dr. Heiting earned his Doctor of Optometry degree at Southern California College of Optometry.