Dr Keshav Bhat Selected For National Myopia Leadership Initiative
Published:
We are proud to announce that Dr. Keshav Bhat, founder and optometrist of Union Family Eye Care, has been selected as a 2026–2027 Myopia Collective Change Agent, a prestigious recognition from the American Optometric Association (AOA) and CooperVision. This honor reflects our ongoing commitment to advancing myopia management, increasing public awareness, and helping address the growing epidemic of childhood myopia.
Leading the Way in Myopia Management
The Myopia Collective is a nationwide initiative focused on transforming the way childhood myopia is understood, managed, and prevented from progressing further. Through a combination of clinical innovation, community education, and advocacy efforts, the program equips selected Change Agents with specialized training, resources, and tools to expand access to evidence-based myopia care.
As a Myopia Collective Change Agent, Dr. Bhat will participate in advanced workshops covering clinical myopia control, practice management, legislative advocacy, and community engagement. These resources will help our practice continue delivering the highest standard of care while expanding awareness of effective myopia management options throughout Indian Trail, Matthews, and the greater Charlotte region.
Our Commitment to Children's Eye Health
Since opening our practice in 2007 (originally as Austin Village Eyecare), we have remained dedicated to providing comprehensive, patient-centered eye care for children and adults.
Myopia management has become an increasingly important focus of our practice as rates of childhood nearsightedness continue to rise. We offer evidence-based treatment programs designed to slow myopia progression and help protect children's long-term eye health. By educating families and providing individualized treatment plans, we can help reduce the risk of future vision-threatening complications associated with high myopia.
Why Myopia Control Matters
Childhood myopia is more than simply needing stronger glasses each year. As myopia progresses, it can increase the risk of serious eye conditions later in life, including:
- Retinal detachment
- Glaucoma
- Myopic macular degeneration
- Other sight-threatening complications
Early detection and treatment are critical. Through specialized myopia management strategies — including customized contact lens options, atropine therapy, and ongoing monitoring — we help families take a proactive approach to protecting their children's vision.
Looking Ahead
Being named a 2026–2027 Myopia Collective Change Agent reinforces our mission to provide innovative, proactive eye care that goes beyond routine vision exams. We are honored to be part of a national effort dedicated to improving children's eye health and helping families access the latest, evidence-based approaches to myopia management.
About Union Family Eye Care
Located in Indian Trail, North Carolina, Union Family Eye Care provides comprehensive optometric services for patients of all ages. Our services include advanced retinal imaging, contact lens fittings, dry eye management, pediatric eye care, and specialized myopia management programs.
We proudly serve patients throughout Indian Trail, Matthews, Stallings, and Weddington, and the greater Charlotte area with personalized, high-quality eye care tailored to each individual's needs.