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Dr. Brett Abney, a local optometrist and owner of Abney Eye Centers in Leitchfield and Brownsville, recently completed a one-year term as President of the Kentucky Optometric Association (KOA).

Abney was nominated for the position and elected President by the group’s 475 members statewide, and served as head of the association’s governing body from April 2012 until April 2013.

During his term, Abney said he made stops in various regions across the state to educate members and also spent time in both Frankfort and Washington D.C. throughout the year to advocate for KOA members as well as their patients.

Approximately eighty percent of optometrist state-wide are members of the organization, according to Abney, who himself has been a member for the past eighteen years.

Of his time as president, he said, “It does take time away from patients,” though he added that he was thankful that the patients at his clinics were understanding of this.

One of the biggest benefits during that time, he explained, was gaining in-depth knowledge of current issues that could potentially affect his patients.

Abney explained that “the biggest thing we dealt with was ensuring access for our patients to have adequate eye care. It’s an essential benefit in health coverage.”

Abney was pleased with the progress the group made during his time as President, but is also happy to pass the torch along to those who will follow after him and continue to serve the group.

Abney currently serves as owner and clinical director of Abney Eye Center where he practices comprehensive eye care for both children and adults. He also provides eye care to several area nursing homes.

In addition to his involvement with the KOA, Abney is also involved in a number of local organizations including the Leitchfield Lions Club, Grayson County Chamber of Commerce, Twin Lakes Regional Medical Center Board of Directors, and Leitchfield Planning and Zoning Board of Directors.

Abney resides in Leitchfield with his wife, Dana, and their two daughters, Paige and Payton.