Dr. Matt Jones of Blytheville named optometrist of the year by American Optometric Association

The American Optometric Association (AOA) recently recognized Matt Jones, O.D., of Blytheville, as the organization’s 2024 Optometrist of the Year.

AOA cited the tireless advocacy work Dr. Jones has led in Arkansas to expand access of care to patients throughout the state by allowing optometrists to practice to a fuller extent of their training.

Jones is the youngest individual to ever receive the honor, and he was presented with the award at the AOA’s national Optometry Meeting last month in Nashville, Tenn.

“Our profession relies on exemplary service in every corner of the U.S. and it’s an honor to recognize an outstanding member doctor as Optometrist of the Year at Optometry’s Meeting 2024,” said AOA President Dr. Steven T. Reed. “Dr. Matt Jones represents the best of optometry through his unwavering dedication to advancing the profession and passion for the visual welfare of his patients and his community.”

“I’m truly honored to receive this award – not just for myself, but for the spotlight it shines on the great strides our profession has made and continues to make here in Arkansas,” said Jones. “We do this work because it impacts our patients’ lives, and we want to ensure Arkansans have access to quality care, no matter where they live in the state.”

Dr. Jones is past President of the Arkansas Optometric Association and has held numerous positions with the American Optometric Association.

Before becoming Optometrist of the Year, Jones was named AOA’s 2018 Young Optometrist of the Year, and is the only individual to ever receive both awards.

Dr. Jones has clinics in Blytheville, Osceola, West Memphis, and Paragould.