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JULY 2016
DISPENSING
OPTICS
N EW S , I N F ORMATION an d
E D U C ATI ON fo r OP TICIANS
Dispensing Optics JULY 2016
Contents
30.
21.
29.
10.
27.
Features
29.
17.
30.
Silmo 2016: strength in continuity
Product spotlight
Continuing Education & Training
An introduction to electronic low vision aids
by Anthony Blackman
23.
Multiple Choice Answers
Protective eyewear for sports
by Kevin Gutsell
24.
Regulars
5.
DO Dispatches
6.
The Anderson Files
by ABDO president, Fiona Anderson
Low vision
Local support and services
by Antonia Chitty
26.
Report
Getting the inside track at BCLA UK
by Nick Howard
Products with vision
18.
Preview
Low vision
Getting smart with LV technology
by Nicky Collinson
8.
Letters & News
16.
FAQs
by Kim Devlin
28.
Black Arts
by Peter Black
32.
Are you on the right pathway?
Asks Richard Rawlinson
FRONT COVER
The Compact+ HD
from Optelec
Jottings
33.
Tried & tested: Occles
34.
Jobs & Notices
3
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DISPENSING OPTICS
The Professional Journal of the Association
of British Dispensing Opticians
VOLUME 31 NO 7
EDITORIAL STAFF
Editor
Assistant Editor
Managing Editor
Email
Design and Production
Email
Admin. Manager
Email
Sir Anthony Garrett CBE HonFBDO
Jane Burnand
Nicky Collinson BA (Hons)
[email protected]
Rosslyn Argent BA (Hons)
[email protected]
Deanne Gray HonFBDO
[email protected]
EDITORIAL/ADVERTISING
Telephone
0781 2734717
Email
[email protected]
Website
www.abdo.org.uk
SUBSCRIPTIONS
UK
£140
Overseas
£150, including postage
Apply to
Tom Veti
Association of British Dispensing Opticians
Godmersham Park, Godmersham, Kent CT4 7DT
Telephone
Email
Website
ABDO CET
Head of CET
01227 733922
[email protected]
www.abdo.org.uk
MUST ALL THE SHOWS GO ON?
It has been announced that the Federation
of Manufacturing Opticians (FMO) has
engaged the Mark Allen Group to run
Optrafair until 2020 (see page 10).
Whilst this news brings some surety to the sector, having
already learnt that 100% Optical is committed up to 2019
with the Association of Optometrists as partner, it does
highlight some serious problems.
Moving from one show every two years, to two shows a year,
has had a huge impact on the budgets of many companies
and organisations. The competition for exhibitors and
sponsorship has never been stronger, yet times have rarely
been as difficult.
Paula Stevens MA ODE BSc(Hons)
MCOptom FBDO CL (Hons)AD SMC(Tech)
ABDO CET, 5 Kingsford Business Centre, Layer Road,
Kingsford, Colchester CO2 0HT
Telephone
Email
DO Dispatches
01206 734155
[email protected]
CONTINUING EDUCATION REVIEW PANEL
Joanne Abbott BSc(Hons) FBDO SMC(Tech)
Keith Cavaye FBDO(Hons)CL FBCLA
Andrew Cripps FBDO(Hons) PG Cert HE FHEA
Kim Devlin FBDO(Hons)CL
Stephen Freeman BSc(Hons) MCOptom FBDO(Hons) FHEA Cert Ed
Abilene Macdonald Grute BSc(Hons) MCOptom BSc(Hons) FBDO(Hons)
SLD(Hons)LVA Dip Dist Ed Cert Ed
Richard Harsant FBDO(Hons)CL(Hons)LVA
Andrew Keirl BOptom(Hons) MCOptom FBDO
Angela McNamee BSc(Hons) MCOptom FBDO(Hons)CL FBCLA Cert Ed
Linda Rapley BSc(Hons) FCOptom PGDip PGCE
Andrew Stokes FBDO SMC(Tech)
JOURNAL ADVISORY COMMITTEE
Richard Crook FBDO
Kim Devlin FBDO(Hons)CL
Kevin Gutsell FBDO(Hons) SLD
Ros Kirk FBDO
Angela McNamee BSc(Hons) MCOptom FBDO(Hons)CL FBCLA Cert Ed
DISPENSING OPTICS IS PUBLISHED BY
ABDO, 199 Gloucester Terrace, London W2 6LD
DISPENSING OPTICS IS PRINTED BY
P&P Litho Ltd, Hanworth, Middlesex TW13 6AR
The ABDO board took the decision that whilst there were two
competing shows, the Association would withdraw from
holding its own conference and exhibition. Instead, we have
agreed to have a significant presence at both shows – providing
top quality CET for our members. We delivered this very
successfully in 2016 and plan to provide even more in 2017.
However, this all comes at a cost – both financially and in the
message it delivers. At a time when the whole sector faces
major challenges, as foretold in the recent Foresight Project
report, and where the need for unity has never been greater,
we have this obvious division in our ranks. How much better
it would be to have one large annual show.
When one considers the size and impact of shows like Silmo
in Paris, Mido in Milan and probably best of all as an example
to the UK, Opti in Munich, it makes our domestic shows seem
very small and parochial indeed.
ABDO makes no secret of its support for an annual UK show
and hopes that in the passage of time, there can be a meeting
of minds so that the whole sector can be united behind one
event for the benefit of the profession and the public we serve.
Sir Anthony Garrett
ABDO general secretary
© ABDO: No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored
in a retrieval system, or transmitted in any form or by any means
whatever without the written prior permission of the publishers
Dispensing Optics welcomes contributions for possible
editorial publication. However, contributors warrant to the
publishers that they own all rights to illustrations, artwork or
photographs submitted and also to copy which is factually
accurate and does not infringe any other party’s rights
ISSN 0954 3201
AVERAGE CIRCULATION: 9,063 Jan-Dec 2015
ABDO Board certification
5
THE
A FILES
FIONA ANDERSON BSC(HONS) FBDO R SMC(TECH)
Our monthly column from the ABDO president
The Anderson Files
L
ife is never dull as ABDO
president. My first few months in
office have been a whirlwind
with lots of travel to various
meetings and events. Much of
what you do as president involves
representing ABDO at home and abroad
but, just to keep me grounded, I have also
managed to be in practice for a few days…
The practice where I am based is in a
commuter town just north of Aberdeen. We
see a diverse range of patients, but I have a
special interest in paediatric dispensing. I
regularly see children with very specific
needs and, whether they be very complex
prescriptions or facial abnormalities, it never
ceases to amaze me that ‘kids are kids’ no
matter where you are. Mangled specs are
the order of the day and I relish the challenge
of getting them to sit straight and in the
right place on their little faces.
We also see many patients right at the
other end of the age spectrum. A sprightly
94-year-old was in recently to buy more
dry eye drops – and was complaining
bitterly that she only thought it was (and I
quote), “Old folk who got dry eyes!” Rural
Aberdeenshire folk are made of granite and
she obviously didn’t see herself as old.
EURO-VISION IN BERLIN
I recently had the privilege of representing
ABDO at the conferences of the European
Council for Optometry & Optics (ECOO)
and the European Academy of Optometry &
Optics (EAOO), which were held together in
Berlin in May. ECOO involved meetings
attended by all European members of the
council on all aspects of optics and optometry
within Europe.
As you can imagine, scope of practice
varies hugely within Europe, and ECOO is
trying to harmonise regulated professions
across Europe to help facilitate free
movement of professionals across the area.
This is not an easy task. There are different
tiers of learning, and sectors within optics
may refer to themselves as ‘opticians’ but
may not have achieved an Ofqual Level 6
qualification.
Others may refer to themselves as
‘optometrists’ yet do not diagnose any
pathology; they refract, issue prescriptions
6
and dispense spectacles or prescribe contact
lenses. There is a huge amount of work to
be done on various aspects such as training,
validation and regulation.
The EAOO is more engaged with
education and CPD, and I was asked to deliver
a peer discussion workshop on ‘Dispensing
solutions for presbyopes’. It was led from
the front by myself, and facilitated by three
ABDO past presidents, two of them Fellows
of the Academy.
We had 40 delegates from all across
Europe who engaged in lively and sometimes
heated debate about what would be the best
solution for each case. Our colleagues who
attended from the UK were able to collect
CET points as much of the CET on offer over
the weekend was accredited and approved
by the General Optical Council.
The next day dawned and a paediatric
skills workshop with our anatomically
correct ‘heads’ was delivered to delegates
from Latvia, Ukraine, Italy, Germany and the
UK. It was clear that everyone was really
keen to be involved and, again, long and
deep discussions ensued. The session was
three hours long with a 20-minute break –
but it passed in a flash. It was refreshing to
be with like-minded professionals, who
really wanted to learn new skills and
enhance the ones they already had, but had
perhaps not used for some time.
As summer gets into full swing, I hope
we have some decent weather because as
you all know I live in the frozen north;
Aberdeen actually lies further north than
Moscow in terms of latitude. So, whatever
the weather, I hope you all have some nice
days and manage some rest and relaxation
during the holiday season.
SUMMER OF SPORTING SHARES
Continuing the EyecareFAQ Summer of Sport, watch
out on our social media channels for images to share
about upcoming sporting events and the need for
good eyewear for both protection and performance.
You’ll find media highlighting the Tour de France, the
British Open, the British Grand Prix and the London
Athletics Grand Prix. Join the ABDO Facebook Group to
get a sneak peek at them before the event, so you’re in
plenty of time to add them to your own practice website
and social media.
Alongside that, there is a new infographic on sports
eyewear for all, and a specific one on sports eyewear for
kids. There are new answers to all the questions patients
might have about polarised lenses, and EyecareFAQ will
be hoping for a sunny month, with a focus on sunglasses
and the jargon and standards.
Eyecare FAQ is at:
• www.facebook.com/eyecarefaq
• www.twitter.com/eyecarefaq
• plus.google.com/+eyecarefaq
• www.pinterest.com/eyecarefaq
• instagram.com/eyecarefaq/
Find ABDO on Facebook, Linked In, Pinterest and
Twitter @MembershipAbdo, and with more general news
at @ABDONews. Share photos from events with us and
invite your colleagues to like the social media accounts
too. They are getting busier every month – have you
found our #fridayfunnies yet?
FRAME: DCS025 c1
SUNWEAR AND OPHTHALMIC FRAME DESIGNS
For more information call: 01452 510321 • Email: [email protected]
View online: www.norville.co.uk
@
HAVE YOUR SAY
Email [email protected]
or write to Dispensing Optics,
PO Box 233, Crowborough
TN27 3AB
Letters
STRONGER TOGETHER
As a dispensing optician with low vision and contact
lens specialties, I was honoured to be recently
awarded Fellowship of the European Academy of
Optometry and Optics [see News page 14] – a
membership organisation with a high regard for the
skills of dispensing opticians.
In Herefordshire our low vision scheme, which was
originally set up in 1997 and run solely by
optometrists, is expanding and will soon include 10
optometrists and three dispensing opticians. Training
is being funded via the Local Optical Committee
Support Unit (LOCSU) and the Wales Optometry
Postgraduate Education Centre (WOPEC) modules,
so there are no direct costs to any of the
participants. This will increase the availability and
geographical coverage across the county to an
increasing group of people [turn to Jottings on pages
32-33 for more on training opportunities for DOs].
We currently have eight enhanced service pathways
in our area, so all of these services offer savings to the
clinical commissioning group (CCG) over secondary
based care whilst delivering great services – often
more conveniently and timely for the patients.
With this expansion of pathways, the low vision
services provided by dispensing opticians is attractive
as it can be more flexible to supplement accredited
optometrists. Currently, 75 per cent of low vision
services in our area are provided by dispensing
opticians, so having an additional two is great news
for the whole optical and local community.
As low vision is a core skill within the DO and
optometry role, we are expanding the service by
asking the practitioners involved to complete WOPEC
Part 1 and then arrange a practical training session
to develop and refine the practical skills. With low
vision, experience is often hard to come by, so we
are looking to enhance these skills but develop the
practical element by delivering the service and
having a hands-on approach. We all work alongside
each other, so we can share skills and training to
make us all better practitioners, and enable a wider
cohort of people to be integrated at one time.
NEWS
SECTOR’S “SLEEVES ROLLED UP”
Health minister Alistair Burt’s attendance at this year’s
National Optical Conference (NOC) signifies the optical sector “has its
sleeves rolled up and is ready to deliver on behalf of the NHS in
primary care,” said Katrina Venerus, managing director of the Local
Optical Committee Support Unit (LOCSU).
The Minister for Community and Social
Care, who is responsible for all primary
care including ophthalmic services, will
speak at the event, which takes place place
on 10 and 11 November in Birmingham.
Katrina added: “Mr Burt outlined his
intention to work more closely with the
Optical Confederation and LOCSU
following our first meeting at the
Department of Health in December. It
reflects a sustained effort by LOCSU and
others to show what optics can do to
Alistair Burt
reduce ophthalmology pressures and
deliver reformed healthcare for the benefit of patients, the NHS and
the taxpayer.”
In addition to an address by the Minister of State, the conference will
include leading speakers from the NHS, ophthalmology and the optical
sector. One free delegate place is available for every LOC. Register at
www.locsu.co.uk
WIN A TRIP TO SILMO
ABDO members are being offered the chance to win a trip for two to
Silmo in Paris this September by entering an exclusive prize draw.
The prize includes two economy flights from a UK airport to Paris and
two nights’ accommodation, including breakfast, at the Hyatt Regency
Paris Étoile on 23 and 24 September.
To enter the draw, email your name, ABDO membership number and
mobile phone number to [email protected] by 23:59 on Friday
19 August. The winner will be notified by Friday 26 August, and full terms
and conditions can be found on the ABDO website.
Silmo 2016 takes place from 23-26 September. Turn to page 29 to read
our show preview.
With continuing pressure on the economy and the
CCG being cautious with its budgeting, we need to be
able to engage with them to show how we can offer
them money-saving options that work. More recent
technology and systems have allowed the reporting
of services to be better understood, and increase the
evidence of positive practice and cost-effectiveness.
The LOC is the best body to be involved with to find
out what is happening locally – and each LOC is
stronger with dispensing optician representation.
What’s happening in your area?
Nick Black BSc FBDO CL (Hons) LVA FEAOO
Herefordshire
8
Two nights in Paris on offer
Neva®Max Secret UV
BBGR’s premium anti-reflective coating
with no residual colour bloom.
Perfect for high fashion and rimless frames.
Find out more on our brand new website.
www.bbgr.co.uk
Always closer
NEWS
Professor Jalie with Ms KaniMozhi Amudan
INDIA FELLOWS
HONOURED
Professor Mo Jalie and Barry Duncan, ABDO
head of policy and development, travelled
to India recently to deliver lectures at
Sankara Nethralaya Academy, the academic
wing of Sankara Nethralaya – the
country’s leading specialty eye hospital
based in Chennai.
Through Sankara Nethralaya, the
Sankara Nethralaya Academy offers
optometry graduates and students the
chance to qualify for ABDO Fellowship
through a blended distance learning
programme and open up their career
options in dispensing.
During the visit, Professor Jalie
presented ABDO Fellowship certificates to
Ms KaniMozhi Amudan and Mr Sumer Sigh
H. The total number of ABDO Fellows in
India is now 17.
Model JL 1262
LUXURY LINE EXPANDED
Continental Eyewear has recently added 12
new styles to its Jacques Lamont
collection, which includes ladies’ styles
featuring sparkling epoxy finishes.
The Jacques Lamont collection is for
men and women and includes hand-made
acetates, subtle metal finishes and
premium hinges to create a luxurious
range of frames without a “designer price
tag”. Most styles have sufficient depth to
accommodate varifocal and bifocal lenses
and cover a range of eye sizes.
FOR THE MOST UP-TO-DATE ABDO
EVENT DETAILS keep an eye out for the
eNews landing in your in box, and the
events section of the website, visit
www.abdo.org.uk/events
10
Optrafair tied up to 2020
DEAL SEALED TO 2020
The Federation of manufacturing Opticians (FMO) has contracted with the Mark Allen
Group (MAG) to manage Optrafair to 2020.
FMO chief executive, Bryony Pawinska, said: “We have been very impressed with the
fresh approach that MAG have brought to Optrafair, and want to build on our successful
relationship not just next year, but in the years ahead when we believe that the sector’s
own trade show will go from strength to strength.”
Vice chairman, Andy Yorke, added: “This was not a difficult decision to make in the
light of the really excellent pre-show sales that MAG have already secured for Optrafair
2017. As an exhibitor as well as a director of the FMO, I see this commitment as a real
advantage for the whole sector.”
SPOTLIGHT ON
DIGITAL LIFESTYLES
Bausch + Lomb have launched a multifocal
version of its new Ultra contact lens,
designed ‘for the digital age’.
The company announced the
availability of Ultra contact lenses for
Presbyopia at a lifestyle media event in
London last month, also revealing the
results of its own research into the effects
of digital technology on the eyes. This
showed that screen-time had increased by
42 per cent over the past five years, with
the average Briton now spending six and a
half hours a day in front of digital screens.
Speaking at the event, optometrist
Francesca Marchetti cited other research
that showed exposure to digital screens
could decrease the eyes’ blink rate by up to
two thirds. The Bausch + Lomb survey also
found that more than half of British
workers stated their eyes felt tired after
work, with 15.5 per cent suffering from
blurred vision, and 36.2 per cent of contact
lens wearers saying their eyes felt irritated.
Heralded as a contact lens ‘for the
The Digital Eye-D Diagnosis site
digital age’, Ultra features MoistureSeal
technology to help the lens retain 95 per
cent of moisture for up to 16 hours. It is
the first innovation in the reusable
segment in almost a decade, and features a
two-step polymerisation process resulting
in high oxygen transmissibility, low
modulus and high wettability without a
plasma treatment.
The company also launched its new
Digital Eye-D Diagnosis test for consumers
at the event, which can be found at
www.digitaleye-d.co.uk
The 4 days of Optics
23 - 26 September 2016
LIVE THE EXPERIENCE
silmoparis.com
NEWS
Improving access to
electronic magnifiers
NETFLIX APPROACH TO
HELP LV PATIENTS
Jet-set support for Orbis
READY FOR TAKEOFF
Orbis, the international charity that fights blindness around the world, recently
unveiled its new Flying Eye Hospital at a press conference at Los Angeles International
Airport where they were joined by Cindy Crawford, a brand Ambassador of Orbis
supporter, Omega.
More than six years in the making, the third-generation Flying Eye Hospital is the
world’s only mobile ophthalmic teaching hospital on board an aircraft. It features a
modular design, 3D technology and live broadcast capabilities. www.orbis.org
LOW VISION COURSES
Learn more about low vision and gain CET points at Associated Optical’s series of
interactive presentations and discussion workshops, which continues this autumn.
A one-day low vision CET course for optometrists and dispensing opticians focusing
upon telescopes, binoculars and bioptics, ‘Telescopes: the long and the short of it’ (12
CET points), will take place at Hampton in Arden on 4 October.
The one-day ‘Building a successful low vision practice’ course (11 CET points) will
take place on 20 September (Surrey), 18 October (Edinburgh), 29 November (Milton
Keynes), and 8 December (Hertfordshire).
Both courses will be run by optometrist and low vision specialist Jane McNaughton.
Further details and bookings can be made at www.associatedoptical.com
Bierley has launched a new patient
scheme, the Bierley Vision Club, to help
those who are visually impaired access
electronic magnifiers.
Based on a similar premise to Netflix
and Spotify, for a small monthly
subscription, members can ‘borrow’
magnifying equipment from Bierley.
“The main objective of the club is to
transform how those who are visually
impaired live their lives through a range of
products designed to be used at home or
out and about,” said CEO Ian Bierley. “The
lending library promises to provide
something for everyone, and offers
members free upgrades on products to
ensure that they are always benefiting
from the latest technology.”
The club has an affiliate scheme that
any optician can join free of charge.
Richard Brunt, dispensing optician at H.
Dickinson, said: “I have dealt with Bierley
for several years now, and have found the
company’s products are consistently of
high quality manufacture and extremely
reliable in use and operation.”
Find out more at
https://bierley.com/bierley-vision-club
SATISFACTION
GUARANTEE
BBGR is now offering a 60-day
satisfaction guarantee on all Neva Max
UV coated Transitions, including the
Neva Max Blue UV and Neva Max Secret
UV, instead of the standard 30 days.
“If the patient isn’t completely
satisfied or feels Transitions hasn’t
improved their visual comfort, they can
exchange them for the clear lens
equivalent,” said a spokesperson.
“Transitions Optical hope that this will
provide dispensing opticians with the
confidence in the product and peace of
mind when recommending to previous
clear lens patients.”
12
Superlite in red
SUPER AND LITE
Norville’s Superlite collection now comprises 54 models with the addition of 14 new
styles available in any combination of frame colour, lens shape and eyesize.
Colours available in the new collection are brown, black, pink, red, and shiny gold. Glazed
with Trivex 1.53 and Tribrid 1.6, all frames underpinned with a two-year warranty against
breakage. The frames are made from materials including titanium, TR90 and stainless steel –
all with 100 per cent quality guarantee, “making Superlite the prime bespoke rimless range
in the market and all at great value”, said the company.
OCTips
Sponsored by
WHICH OCT SCAN
PATTERNS SHOULD I USE
AND WHEN?
OCT devices offer a wide variety of scan
patterns for assessing the retina. Understanding
when and where to use the various scan
patterns requires a basic understanding of eye
anatomy and the ability to recognise when
the structure of a patient’s eye is not normal.
New EAOO Fellows, with Nick third right
FELLOWSHIP HONOUR FOR CLO
Contact lens optician Nick Black was named as one of 14 new Fellows of the
European Academy of Optometry and Optics (EAOO) during the organisation’s recent
annual conference held in Berlin.
Nick said: “I am extremely proud to have been named as a 2016 Fellow because the
Academy plays a very important role in sharing knowledge and best practice across
Europe, and I am a firm believer in the value of the professions working together for the
benefit of patients.
“Fellows also aim to advance optometry and optics, develop the scientific knowledge
base, and support and promote lifelong learning for all those involved in eye health care
across Europe so I am looking forward to being able to contribute my own knowledge in
these important areas as well,” he added.
Academy President, Dr Mireia Pacheco-Cutillas, said: “It is an honour to welcome
these talented and knowledgeable members into Fellowship so they can be real
ambassadors for optometry, optics and the Academy, and is a part of our annual
conference that I really look forward to.”
NEW ROLE AT ECV
David Hewlett, chief executive of the Federation of Ophthalmic and Dispensing
Opticians, has been selected as chair of the European Coalition for Vision (ECV).
The ECV represents professional bodies, patient groups, European and national
health, and disability NGOs as well as trade associations. It aims to raise the profile of
eye health and vision, to prevent avoidable visual impairment and secure an equal and
inclusive society for those with low vision and irreversible blindness in Europe.
RNIB CE TO RETIRE
Lesley –Anne Alexander CBE
Lesley-Anne Alexander CBE will retire
as chief executive of the Royal National
Institute of Blind People (RNIB) later
this year.
She said: “I have been at RNIB for over
12 years, working in what I have often
described as the best job in the world. The
RNIB group of charities is stronger than it
has ever been, we are reaching more people
than ever before and our future whilst
always challenging, looks secure.”
Lesley-Anne was awarded a CBE in the
Queen's 2012 Birthday Honours list and was
recognised by her peers in the Third Sector
Awards as Britain’s Most Admired Charity
Chief Executive 2015.
Choosing the right scan protocol and pattern
will help the practitioner to make an accurate
diagnosis without having to rescan the patient.
Establishing a screening protocol for OCT
ensures that patients are scanned
systematically – removing operator
variability – and that records are consistent
from patient to patient and from visit to
visit. However, patient care can be enhanced
further by customising the eye scan based on
family and medical history, as well as any
pathology present.
When scanning a patient at risk, suspected or
expected to have certain pathology, it may be
advantageous to use additional scan patterns
and fundus imaging modalities beyond the
established screening protocol to obtain
further diagnostic information.
If an abnormality is seen when viewing the
patient’s retina live in the capture window,
being able to place the OCT scan in any
location or orientation makes it possible to
easily scan the pathology in detail. Using
specialist imaging modalities may also
provide more diagnostic detail.
For example, for patients with dry agerelated macular degeneration, blue laser
autofluorescence fundus imaging (see image)
provides the clinician with a map of retinal
pigment epithelial health and can indicate
how the disease is likely to progress.
Visit http://bit.do/scanningprotocols to
download a selection of advanced eye health
check scanning protocols recommended by
Heidelberg Engineering.
NEWS
Irenie with her award
VISION PIONEERS
CELEBRATED
The inaugural Vision Pioneer Awards were
held last month in London, to celebrate
the work of professionals in eye health
and sight loss services.
The winner of Campaign of the Year
was ‘No Water’, by Irenie Ekkeshis. Irenie
started her campaign two years after
losing sight in her left eye when she
contracted acanthamoeba keratitis.
Irenie said: “It’s a tremendous honour
to be recognised, particularly amongst
such inspiring people working in the sight
loss sector. I’m particularly grateful to
Fight for Sight for championing the
campaign and supporting me to share the
‘No water’ message far and wide.
Discover all the winners at
www.ukvisionstrategy.org.uk
SPORTS BOTTLE PROMO
Eyespace is offering practitioners
complementary Limited Edition 500ml
Rock Star Sports Bottles as a gift with
purchase for their younger patients.
Made in the UK, the BPA-free water
bottles feature a specialist one-way valve
mechanism in the cap.
Nicky Clement, Eyespace marketing
manager at Eyespace, said: “In true Rock
Star style, we have created a bottle that
looks great and makes keeping cool
fashionable.”
Eyespace is also running a Rock Star
window competition on Twitter that could
see participants win back their order.
New MD, Bob Preston
Sarah (left) with Eyespace regional
sales manager, Catherine Bartlett
TOP JOB FOR BOB
A GIRL’S BEST FRIEND
International Eyewear has appointed Bob
Preston as its new managing director.
With 28 years’ experience in the
industry, Bob joins the company from
Boots Opticians. He was an instrumental
part of the transformation of the Boots
Opticians and Dollond & Aitchison
businesses when they merged in 2009,
as supply chain, IT and transformation
director.
He said: “With the optical world
changing as fast as it is, my role is to equip
the company with the tools and support
to exceed the new demands of our
customers.”
Dispensing optician, Sarah Bonting of
Oakwood in Derby, was the lucky winner
of a one-carat diamond after entering
Eyespace’s Optrafair prize draw.
Visitors to the company’s stand were
asked to place ‘diamonds’ discovered in
their glasses of prosecco into a safe to be
analysed after the show.
Sarah, who found the one real diamond
amongst the fakes, said: “It is my 20th
wedding anniversary in August and my
husband always promised me a beautiful
diamond ring when we reached 20 years.
Now I have a beautiful diamond and I am
in the process of designing a ring for it to
be mounted into.”
TRAINING ROLL-OUT
Zeiss is currently rolling out its advanced programme of CET and professional services
events, which are held at its Vision Institute training facility in Birmingham.
The CET sessions will include the latest research and developments in optics,
presented by leading experts in the field, through to peer-to-peer interactive sessions
and hands-on demonstrations of Zeiss technologies.
Peter Robertson, marketing and communications director of Zeiss Vision Care, said:
“Creating the Zeiss Vision Institute and providing CET brings Zeiss closer to our vision of
becoming a Centre of Excellence for the optical profession.”
Visit www.zeissportal.co.uk for course details.
Indestructible frames with memory
LIKE A RUBBER BALL…
Rock Star range offers
14
Even under high loads, Rodenstock’s new lightweight Indestructible frames are
designed to bounce back to their original shape.
“Flexible and dimensionally stable at the same time, each Rodenstock Indestructible is a
true contortion artist,” said Debbie Bathgate, Rodenstock lens product manager. “Its
flexibility is due to the highly functional ‘memory metal’ effect, which always returns the
spectacles to their original shape.”
NEWS
Inaugural NHS eye health summit
CCGS URGED TO TACKLE BACKLOGS
Commissioners must help “radically redesign” eye health services for the benefit of
patients, the first-ever NHS eye health summit was told last month.
Clinical commissioning groups (CCGs) at the Demand and Capacity conference heard
that the need for change was now “critical”. Eye health leaders warned that inaction
could have far-reaching social and economic consequences.
National head of primary care commissioning at NHS England, Dr David Geddes, said:
“The first eye health summit has created a vital opportunity for commissioners and
providers in primary and secondary care to come together to share examples of good
practice. With demand for hospital eye services growing from an ageing population, they
are now busier than ever. There is a clear need for radical change across the health sectors
to better integrate care so that patients can access quality services in a timely fashion.”
Chair of the Clinical Council for the Commissioning of Eye Health, David Parkins, said
that primary eyecare services should be the first port of call to manage and monitor
cases prior to referral to hospital and that community ophthalmology solutions lay in
multi-disciplinary, collaborative teams.
Our photo shows from left: Dr Graham Mennie, GP Lead for Clinical Programmes,
Gloucestershire CCG; Katrina Venerus, LOCSU managing director; Dr David Geddes; and
Professor Carrie MacEwen, president of the Royal College of Ophthalmologists.
Read more from the conference at www.locsu.co.uk
Pass
through the
Arc de Triomph to be
entered into the prize draw
to win a trip to PARIS!
CONVERT YOUR POINTS
INTO SHOPPING VOUCHERS
Watch this
Transitions
video for
NEW TORIC
LENS OPTION
EXTRA POINTS
Watch this
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video for
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Here
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video for
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LENSES AND
LADDERS INCENTIVE
Running until the end of July, Transitions
Optical’s Lenses and Ladders Scratchcard
campaign is an incentive for
practitioners to recommend Transitions
lenses purchased via BBGR, Sinclair
Optical, Leicester Optical and Horizon
Optical which, in turn, provides the
opportunity to win shopping vouchers
and/or a trip to Paris.
Visit www.lensesandladders.co.uk to
enter the unique number from the
scratchcards.
CooperVision has announced the
introduction of Biofinity XR toric,
incoporating a similar uniform horizontal
ISO thickness and optimised ballast band
as Biofinity toric.
“Biofinity XR toric contact lenses bring
the proven comfort, clarity and stable fit
of the Biofinity brand to people who may
otherwise not have the opportunity to
experience the benefits of silicone
hydrogel wear,” said Guy Whittaker, vice
president of global marketing.
Like all Biofinity lenses, Biofinity XR
toric features Aquaform Technology to
allow more oxygen to reach the eyes.
Proven comfort and clarity
Golfer Robert Karlsson
SWINGING FOR
TEAM MAUI
Maui Jim has added Swedish professional
golfer, Robert Karlsson, to its team of
ambassadors.
Robert joins a strong team of Maui Jim
ambassadors including fellow golfer,
Miguel Angel Jimenez, and from the world
of tennis, Patrick Mouratoglou, David
Ferrer, Martina Hingis, Philip Kohlschreiber
and Garbiñe Muguruza.
A wide variety of Maui Jim Sunglasses
are popular with golfers, featuring
lightweight and durable grilamid or titanium
temples, hypoallergenic rubber nose pads
and temple tips, and a variety of lens
colours for different playing conditions.
PRIZES TO BE WON
Sight Care has developed a joint initiative
with the Health and Wellbeing Group
(H&WG) to help its members set up and
run their own health and wellbeing
networking group in their local town
or city.
Meeting every three weeks the group
is designed to connect like-minded
business owners, sharpen their business
skills and help them to increase the number
of referrals into their business. Full training
and on-going support is provided.
John French, CEO of Sight Care, said:
“At Sight Care we understand how
important and effective networking within
the local community can be as a marketing
tool to independent practices. Providing a
specialist networking group for
independent opticians and other health
professionals is a natural strategic
objective that will support our members in
achieving their business goals, which is
what Sight Care is all about.”
15
Frequently asked questions
answered by Kim Devlin FBDO (Hons) CL
A QUESTION OF NHS FRAUD
There was a discussion at a recent CET event, which
made me think it would be helpful to air it more widely
in this column.
The scenario was that a practice had submitted a
voucher for payment, ‘E+T’, for a patient who had
requested a photochromatic tint on their new bifocals.
The patient wanted the tint for cosmetic reasons. As you
can imagine, there was much debate – which is exactly
what CET events are for. The general consensus was that it
was fraud.
It was stated in the scenario that the optometrist had not
completed the voucher value – only the name of the patient.
We know that a tint may only be claimed when there is a
clinical need, a fact which must be recorded on the record
card. It might well be that only during the dispensing was the
question of light sensitivity raised and a photochromatic tint
suggested. This must then be discussed with the prescribing
optometrist, who can amend the records if they feel the
problem is clinical, and add a ‘T’ to the voucher value.
A point raised at the event was how would NHS
England ever know it was not clinically necessary? We all
know that audits are carried out on a regular basis, and if a
practice were to be highlighted as one where there are a
greater number of claims for tints than the national
average, and unless there was a reasonable explanation, an
audit might follow to investigate a potential fraud. The
auditors would check specific claims against the clinical
records of the practice.
Another area of potential fraud is when children’s
spectacles are ‘repaired’ to give the child a spare pair. Again,
there was much discussion on this point; many felt that it
wasn’t fraud as the beneficiary was the family not the
practice. That is not the case. You would be making a false
claim by stating that the repair was needed to the latest
spectacles, not to upgrade old spectacles to make them a
spare pair, which are not generally provided under the NHS.
If there is a very real need for a spare pair of spectacles
for a child, you may make a request to the commissioning
body for such an item, which they may or may not grant,
depending on the circumstances.
For further information on this subject, look on the
ABDO website, log in to the members’ area, then home,
general information and down to making accurate claims.
The latest information was published in 2014.
Past FAQs are available for reference on the ABDO website at http://www.abdo.org.uk/frequently-asked-questions
Staff and students at ABDO College got into the Euro
2016 spirit recently for a charity football match in aid of
the Guide Dogs for the Blind Association. Mark Turner
FBDO, college technician, commentates…
After much anticipation the sporting event of the year
finally arrived, and the weather turned out to be hot and
sunny, which pleased the supporters.
As the match kicked off, the staff team settled down the
quickest with the student team hitting long balls. The staff
team’s rear guard, with an average age of 42, soaked up the
pressure and allowed their young guns in the attacking third
to express themselves, going close a few times with two
attempts hitting the bar.
However, it was the students who came the closest just
before half time only to be denied by a fully stretched onehanded save by Haydn Dobby in the staff goal. Both teams
got their water and cooled down ready for the second half,
which started with a daring goal attempt from Barry Duncan
hitting the bar for the staff team.
The first goal arrived not long after when left back, yours
truly, had time to hit a 30-yard curler into the top corner and
Nathan Alcock in the student goal was finally beaten: 1-0. A
controversial penalty was awarded 10 minutes later for the
staff team, which they sent on 12-year-old Luke Turner to
take. Feeling the pressure, the youngster hit it between the
rugby goals behind instead of between the goalposts and this
appeared to be the turning point in the match.
Spurred on, the students started to raise their game and
came forward in numbers and eventually a chance fell to
Braden Stonehouse in the box, who coolly made it 1-1, as the
game became stretched and legs tired.
With the clock ticking, it was Braden Stonehouse who
pounced on a mix-up in the staff team goal to send the
students into the lead for the first time and what turned out
to be the match winner.
Everyone enjoyed the day, which also included a Bake Off
competition won by student Peter Lamb. A total of £540.82
was raised for Guide Dogs.
The ABDO College staff team, captained by Mark Turner
The ABDO Student team, captained by Braden Stonehouse
CHARITY PITCH BATTLE AT
ABDO COLLEGE
16
Kim Devlin
is chair of
ABDO’s
Advice and
Guidelines
Working
Group
The easy-to-use Compact+ HD
from Optelec
CUSTOMISABLE SOLUTION WITH ADDED BUSINESS VALUE
“If you can’t extend refraction for individual patients beyond a certain level
due to chronic low vision problems, then Optelec has a bestselling solution
to consider,” says managing director, Paul Fletcher. “The small and
lightweight Compact+ HD outperforms conventional optical magnifiers and
is the perfect low vision product to introduce into practice.”
Easy to use and promote, the key benefits to the patient of the
customisable Compact+ HD include a large 4.3inch bright widescreen
enabling a good field of view, an easy grip retractable handle for unsteady
hands, and a continuous zoom magnifying between 2.8-11x. It also
incorporates a snapshot function and can store several images. The
rechargeable battery offers three hours of continuous use and the patient
can choose between four high contrast text and background colours.
“Practices interested in incorporating low vision into a revised business
plan can benefit from generous margins and a simple sales process to their
patients,” continued Paul. “When placed alongside the other point-of-sale
products that Optelec can offer, the Compact+ HD will form part of an
attractive and profitable supplementary product range for opticians looking
to integrate new thinking into their practices.”
Products with vision
In keeping with the theme of this issue, we highlight three new innovations
designed to make life easier for people with vision loss
LOW
VISION
The versatile
Eschenbach Mobase magnifier
A combined
handset and
telephonist service
FROM HAND TO STAND IN THE BLINK OF AN EYE
New to the market this spring, the Eschenbach Mobase is designed to work
with the world renowned Mobilux LED hand-held magnifier, by simply
transforming the Mobilux from a hand magnifier to a stand magnifier.
With Mobase, Mobilux LED can be used as a stand magnifier – both in the
flat position for tremble-free reading and viewing, as well as in an upright
position which leaves both hands free to carry out work behind the lens.
Different specifications ensure the correct viewing distance for every
Mobilux LED magnifier. It’s designed to be quick and easy to insert the
Mobilux LED into the Mobase stand, and the patient can change it over to
hand-held use at any time.
One of the Mobase stands is also equipped with a quarter-inch thread.
This means that it can be attached to a flexible swan neck tripod or to a
conventional tripod. The stand enables the patient to freely adjust the
distance of use, and it can be used with all Mobilux LED magnifiers. Mobase
is available in the UK from Associated Optical.
FUSS-FREE MOBILE PHONE SERVICE
Fuss Free Phones has partnered with the RNIB to provide a mobile phone
handset and service that offers independence for people with sensory loss.
Fuss Free Phones’ combined handset and telephonist service enables
users to press a large button on its handset to speak to a local telephonist,
who will then manage their phone books, place calls, filter incoming calls,
send and read text messages and find information on the internet.
“As traditional phones become more technically developed, they can
become less user friendly for sensory impaired people,” said Simon Rockman,
founder at Fuss Free Phones. “For example, Siri is a great innovation but is hard
to use for people who are both elderly and experiencing sight loss. We are
thrilled to be working with the RNIB to help blind and partially sighted people
communicate using all the same channels that fully sighted people do.”
RNIB’s mobile phones, Doro 612 PhoneEasy, will now come loaded with
the Fuss Free Phones telephonist service. RNIB customers can order a handset
and SIM card through the RNIB’s online shop, by calling the RNIB helpline
on 0303 123 9999 and through its 11 resource centres across the UK.
Next month’s Product Spotlight will be on children’s eyewear.
17
CET
COMPETENCIES COVERED
Dispensing opticians: Low Vision, Optical Appliances, Standards of Practice
Optometrists: Optical Appliances, Standards of Practice
An introduction to electronic
low vision aids
by Anthony Blackman BSc(Hons) FBDO CL (Hons)SLD SMC(Tech) CertAcc(Open) PGDip RSci MRSB FRSPH FRI FInstCPD
I
t is now commonplace in practice
that the use of digital devices is
discussed with patients. This might
include a discussion about special
coatings for high energy blue light
blocking, or maybe a particular
occupational lens design for screen work.
However, the same is also true for visually
impaired patients.
Whereas traditionally a practice might
stock a couple of basic hand magnifiers,
there is an ever growing range of electronic
low vision aids (LVAs) which can make a
real difference to visually impaired patients.
This article gives an overview of some of
the types available and the benefits they
can bring to patients’ lives.
All registered dispensing opticians (DOs)
can provide low vision advice to patients
under the General Optical Council’s (GOC’s)
Core Competency 6 (Low Vision) without
the need for further specialist qualifications.
Element 6.3 is: “The ability to advise on the
use of and dispense appropriate low vision
aids”; therefore, the advice below will help
DOs to give up-to-date advice to patients
on more modern aids, which are not covered
by many textbooks.
SOFTWARE PACKAGES
Before discussing specific LVAs, let us first
consider the normal computer or tablet.
Data from the Office of National Statistics
shows that internet use more than tripled
for those aged 65 and older between 2006
and 20131; therefore, many patients will
have some experience of these. They have a
number of features which can aid visually
impaired patients; these include being able
to adjust the page zoom/magnification, the
text type (font), and also the colour options
& brightness. These simple adjustments are
free and easy to make.
There are also a growing number of
software products specifically designed for
visually impaired people, two popular
packages being ZoomText and Dolphin.
ZoomText (Sight and Sound Technology)
not only provides magnification, but it can
read out the text that is on-screen. This
audio can also be recorded for playback
later and newer versions of the software
have added features, such as Key Echo,
where each key typed is played back to the
user. This software works with all internet
browsers, email, text documents etc, and
has braille support, although as it can cost
up to £500 to purchase. Any interested
patients would be advised to try the free
download first.
JAWS (Sight and Sound Technology) is
another software package, which is designed
for those with more severe sight loss who
struggle to see screen content. This software
reads aloud what is on the computer screen
and gives the user a unique set of tools for
Figure 1: Dolphin Guide’s navigation screen
navigating and accessing web pages and all
screen content. It also has braille functionality
and can provide braille outputs instead of
audio. This software is more expensive (from
£625), but again patients should use the free
trial before making a purchase.
Dolphin is another provider with a range
of software for the visually impaired.
Dolphin Guide is ideal for anybody who is
sight-impaired (SI) or severely sight
impaired (SSI), has little or no computer
experience and is looking for an easy-tolearn solution with little or no technical
ability. It uses a simple list of commands to
navigate the options (Figure 1) and the
colour of the text or background can be
adjusted or magnified to aid clarity.
This article has been approved for 1 CET point by the GOC. It is open to all FBDO members, and associate
member optometrists. The multiple-choice questions (MCQs) for this month’s CET are available online only,
to comply with the GOC’s Good Practice Guidance for this type of CET. Insert your answers to the six MCQs
online at www.abdo.org.uk. After log-in, go to ‘CET Online’. Questions will be presented in random order.
Please ensure that your email address and GOC number are up-to-date. The pass mark is 60 per cent. The
answers will appear in the November 2016 issue of Dispensing Optics. The closing date is 11 October 2016.
18
C-52219
Optional extra features include hands-free
navigation with voice control.
Tips:
• When selecting text and background
colours it is best to select colours
from opposite sides of the colour
wheel (Figure 2), this should give
patients good contrast of hues2
• Always use a free trial before
purchasing software
• It can take some time to become
proficient so a ‘little and often’
approach is recommended, rather
than long sessions
• Ensure the patient is wearing a
suitable correction; measure the
working distance as you may need
to alter the prescribed addition
Figure 2: Contrast and the colour wheel
CLOSED CIRCUIT TELEVISION
SYSTEMS (CCTV)
This type of magnification system was first
described by Potts et al in 1959 and they
started to be used more commonly in
1970s with trials at Moorfields Eye
Hospital. Over the decades, these have
developed to become full colour devices
with features such as auto-zoom and
contrast alteration to enhance the image or
even inverse it altogether. The system is
made up of a video camera set above an XY
moveable table, with the image being
displayed live on the accompanying screen.
With optical magnification, the image is
located at or within the lens-to-object
working distance; for a simple magnifier
this is the focal lens of the plus lens. With
increasing power and magnification, the
working distance reduces and at high
powers it becomes more difficult to use the
aid. This is not the case with electronic
Figure 3a: The Mezzo Vario from
Optima Low Vision
systems where the magnification can in
some cases exceed 100x. The limiting
factors to the magnification are the quality
of the device and the size of the screen.
A couple of examples of CCTV systems
are shown in Figure 3. These cost around
£1,700, with process coming down, but have
many advantages:
• High levels of magnification
(exceeding x100)
• Magnification can be quickly and
easily adjusted
• Due to a more comfortable working
distance, the viewer can see the image
binocularly which eliminates problems
of convergence
• Due to larger screen sizes, the field
of view is larger than what is possible
with a simple hand or stand magnifier
• Additional features such as HD
cameras, adjustable brightness, image
reversal, contrast enhancement allow
the patient to alter the image to make
viewing more comfortable
• Features such as line marking and
windowing aid the user following the
text and are, therefore, less likely to
lose their place
Anyone considering one of these systems
should talk to the manufacturers as it is
normal practice to arrange for a home trial
before making a purchasing decision. This will
give the potential user time to try out different
features and permutations of the device, as
well as practice using the XY table.
PORTABLE TV READERS
CCTV systems offer high levels of
magnification, but the high cost and limited
portability may lead some patients to want
a smaller device which can be connected to
any TV or monitor. These portable devices
still offer good levels of image quality and
magnification for a lower price.
Figure 3b: The ClearView C 24 HD from Optelec
19
Continuing Education and Training
Figure 4: The Bierley Monomouse in use
Bierley Magnifiers is one of the
companies that can supply these portable
aids. Its MonoMouse range (Figure 4) can
be easily carried around and plugged into a
TV or monitor. Starting at approximately
£100 they are much more affordable,
although they are not able to provide as
high a level of magnification as CCTV –
around 14x on a 20inch screen. They do not
have all the features of the desktop CCTV
systems, e.g. no line marking and limited
image settings to change the contrast. It
does take some practice as the user needs
to be careful when moving the device over
the object; unlike the desktop CCTV where
the object is moved on the XY table.
HANDHELD ELECTRONIC LVAS (P-EVES)
Most visually impaired patients are given
hand magnifiers as their first LVA; they are
available in a wide range of powers and
features such as internal illumination are
very helpful, particularly with higher powers
when the working distance is very short.
Figure 5: Four types of handheld electronic LVAs
20
There are, however, a wide range of
electronic devices which, although more
expensive than traditional hand magnifiers,
do have some useful added benefits which
should be considered:
• Range of magnification
• One device can replace several
magnifiers
• The viewing distance can be kept at
the user’s habitual distance as
magnification increases
• Ability to take photographs
• They can, therefore, also be used for
distance in some cases
• Contrast can be adjusted and colours
inverted
• Being rechargeable reduces the
maintenance needs of the unit
A small selection is shown in Figure 5,
and a comparison of some in Table 1, but
there are many similar devices now on
the market.
Many devices have a handle to aid the
user and in order to simplify their use, the
number of buttons has been kept to a
minimum, for example, there are only three
on the Compact 4HD. To make them more
user-friendly, the buttons tend to be large and
coloured, so that they stand out more; the
Schweizer eMag43 is a good example of this.
Although many devices have three
settings of magnification, which keeps the
device simple to use, some have a
continuous zoom system which grants more
flexibility. It should be remembered that
over time a patient’s vision can change and
if their condition advances then higher
levels of magnification will be required.
By having more than one level of
magnification, a P-EVE (Portable Electronic
Vision Enhancement System) will remain
useful if the patient requires more
magnification. A 4.3inch screen may seem
small for viewing, but it should be
remembered that a typical x6 hand
magnifier has a diameter of about two
inches, while the viewing distance for the
P-EVE can remain at the patient’s habitual
viewing distance. In a survey of potential
users, screen sizes of less than 3.5 inches
were considered too small, while screens
over five inches were considered too large
for regularly carry around outside of the
home3; the typical weight of the sampled
P-EVES was 250-350g.
The Smartlux from Eschenbach (Figure
6a) has a five inch display along with three
large, simple buttons which are also colour
coded. These vary the display option,
change the magnification (from 1.7x to an
impressive 12x) and there is also the image
type and size of battery or having to
struggle changing them – especially if they
have reduced dexterity.
DEVICE
SCREEN SIZE
(inches)
MAGNIFICATION
Optelec Compact +
4.3
3 settings – 5x, 7.5x,10x
Optelec Compact 4HD
4.3
Continuous – 1.7x to12x
Schweizer eMag43
4.3
3 settings – 5x, 7.5x,10x
Eschenbach Mobilux
3.5
3 settings – 3x, 4x, 6x
Eschenbach Smartlux
5
Incremental – 1.7x to12x
Table 1: A comparison of handheld P-EVES devices
capture button. When this button is
pressed, the device will focus and capture a
still image which can be viewed later. The
basic memory allows for 20 images to be
stored at any one time; although this can
be expanded. Like many modern electronic
devices, there is an auto-off feature, which
will shut down the aid after three minutes
of inactivity to preserve the battery life.
Like the other handheld devices, there
are several display options (true colour,
contrast enhanced black/white, white/black,
black/yellow or yellow/black). Where this
device differs from other handheld
electronic LVAs is that it can be used in
three different positions.
In its normal set-up, the device is a
normal handheld magnifier; however,
underneath the device there is a prop which
when fully unfolded allows the device to
become a stand magnifier (Figure 6b). If
the user only unfolds the prop half-way,
then the device will still remain standing on
its own and the user will have room to
write under the camera, e.g. for crosswords,
Figure 6a: The Smartlux digital
Sudoku or signing a letter.
Again patients will need to practice
with the aids, as with any magnifier, as well
as learning to use the buttons. As with the
CCTV systems, there are a number of image
manipulation functions to adjust colours
and contrast to suit the patient. Therefore,
the patient may want to try out different
colour features to find the combination
which works best for them. Remember to
check that the instructions are printed with
text that is of a suitable size for the patient
to read, or make sure that they have a
friend or family member read them as well
so that if they are unsure then they have
someone to ask.
Manufacturers will provide at least 14day home approval on such devices, which
will allow for ample testing of the aid.
Battery life varies but three to four hours is
common, therefore, the patient needs to be
able to easily connect the power cable to
recharge the batteries. Most devices now
have rechargeable battery packs which save
the user having to purchase the correct
TEXT TO SPEECH
With improvements in camera technology
and increased processing power of the
devices, there are now aids which can
quickly capture an image of text and then
relay the text as an audio output. One such
portable example, for around £2,000, is
shown in Figure 7 (ClearView Reader+).
This is an excellent device for those who
find reading difficult or slow. The portable
device has five hours’ battery life between
charges, with all the controls being located
on top; with play, pause, forward and back
as well as buttons to control the output
such as volume, speed and a choice of
different voices.
The camera requires good lighting, so
there is an integrated light to aid the device
in low light conditions. There is an inbuilt
SD memory card so that items can be
photographed and saved for playback later
at the user’s convenience or if they have a
lot of material to get through.
WEARABLE DEVICES – ORCAM
A further advance of text to speech
software is OrCam (www.orcam.com),
shown in Figure 8. This is a lightweight,
wearable device powered by a small battery
pack. The output is transmitted via the
temporal bone so that although the wearer
can hear what is being said, it is not audible
to others in the vicinity. Being spectacle
mounted it is light and not too obtrusive;
neither does it draw attention to the
Figure 6b: The Smartlux has a useful stand for handsfree use (images courtesy of Associated Optical)
21
Figure 7: The portable ClearViewReader+
Text and other objects can be programmed
in, for example, items around the home
such as food items or bank notes. It can
also be programmed to recognise people’s
faces; so no more guessing who has entered
the room; this is ideal for patients with
central vision loss such as age-related
macular degeneration. The device does
require programming for each item so
training is required; however, as the device
is activated by a simple point of the finger
or press of a button, most patients should
adapt quickly to it.
The technology is still very new, but
over time as the software develops then it
is likely that more of these wearable
devices will appear on the market.
wearer. Even if the print is upside down, the
device will still work fine.
FINAL THOUGHTS
Here is a short list of some key points
which should be considered for each
patient:
• Consider the age of the patient and
their experience
• Do they have any co-morbidities, such
as hand tremors?
• Do they have a budget or can they
get funding? (Funding may be available
if the device is needed for employment
or education)
• What spectacle correction will the
patient need to wear and what will
the working distance be?
• Always try before you buy
DISCLOSURE
The author has no conflicts of interest, no
financial interest or personal involvement
with any of the companies or products
mentioned in this article. The devices
mentioned are examples of a wide range of
aids available from many different suppliers.
REFERENCES
1. Curtis S. Rise of the Silver Surfer. The
Telegraph. 8 March 2014 [online]. Available
at http://www.telegraph.co.uk/technology/
news/10683749/Rise-of-the-silver-surfers.
html (accessed 26 April 2016)
2. Arditi A. Effective Color Contrast:
Designing for People with Partial Sight
and Color Deficiencies. Lighthouse
International 2002 (online). http://www.
visibilitymetrics.com/sites/visibility
metrics.com/files/downloads/Effective%
20Color%20ContrastColor%20Brochure.
pdf (accessed 26 April 2016)
Figure 8a: The spectacle-mounted OrCam
Figure 8b: The spectacle-mounted OrCam
22
3. Taylor J, Bambrick R, Dutton M, Harper
R, Ryan B, Tudor-Edwards R, Waterman
H, Whitaker C and Dickinson C (2014)
The p-EVES study design and
methodology: a randomised controlled
trial to compare portable electronic
vision enhancement systems (p-EVES)
to optical magnifiers for near vision
activities in visual impairment.
Ophthalmic and Physiological Optics 34;
5: 558-572.
ANTHONY BLACKMAN is a senior
lecturer in the Faculty of Health and
Wellbeing at Canterbury Christ Church
University; professional lead for
ophthalmic dispensing, and an academic
link tutor, for ABDO College; an ABDO
board member,an ABDO and WCSM
examiner; locum DO and CLO; and WCSM
distance learning tutor. He is also
studying for an ophthalmic doctorate at
Aston University.
MCAs
Multiple choice answers:
Six of the following questions were presented online to entrants to comply with the General
Optical Council’s best practice specifications for this type of CET.
In the USA, which sport is responsible for most ocular
trauma?
a. Baseball
b. Tennis
c. Squash
d. Basketball
d is the correct answer. Most eye injuries occur in
basketball, partly because so many people play this particular
sport. Injuries occur more from flying elbows or fingers than
the ball itself. The bones around the eye socket usually
prevent the ball from making direct contact with the eye but
a finger or elbow to the eye can cause distortion to the
shape of the eye, rupture blood vessels and contribute to
retinal detachment.
Which of these actions is least likely to promote
understanding regarding the protection of eyes when
playing sports?
a. Activities and information directly targeted at clubs and
organisations by sports professionals
b. A&E leaflets outlining the dangers associated with active
participation in sport
c. Changes in rules and regulations governing sports activities
d. Promotion of safety by sports equipment manufacturers
b is the correct answer. Prevention of accidents and
injury in sport should be the main aim. Being wise after the
event by reading in A&E what has already happened could
well be too late.
According to the Sussex Eye Hospital statistics, which
sport is responsible for the most ocular injuries in women?
a. Squash
b. Cricket
c. Badminton
d. Rugby
c is the correct answer. Whereas squash is responsible
for the greatest number of injuries, badminton has produced
more severe trauma according to A&E sources, across both
female and male players. The fastest badminton shuttlecock
speed recorded is approximately 92.1 m/s (206 mph) in
2005. The record verifiable squash ball speed is 176mph in
2014. Both have dimensions very similar to the ocular orbit.
Factors such as material, weight differences, temperature,
humidity, altitude, and air pressure can affect the speed.
Which statement is FALSE?
a. Of the eye injuries requiring patient admission for
treatment, it is likely that about half will be from
racket sports
b. The risk of significant eye damage could be reduced by 90
per cent if properly fitted eye protection is used
c. Metal spectacle frames should not be worn when
playing football
d. In squash, wearing soft contact lenses will provide better
eye protection than a polycarbonate goggle
d is the correct answer. Contact lenses may be more
convenient in many ways but cannot provide the same physical
barrier as a purpose-fitted goggle.
Which one of these conditions is most significant when
deciding on protective eyewear for skiing?
a. Hyphaema
b. Photokeratitis
c. Iris prolapse
d. Retinal detachment
b is the correct answer. Photokeratitis is a corneal
epithelial injury caused when eyes are inadequately
protected from UV light. The condition typically occurs at
high altitudes on highly reflective snow fields. Patients
experience the onset of a foreign body sensation, two to 12
hours after the exposure, followed by pain, photophobia,
tearing, blepharospasm, and decreased visual acuity,
depending on the severity or duration of the exposure.
According to the paper, ‘One year study of severe eye
injuries in sport’, how many patients who presented for
treatment had worn any form of protective eyewear?
a. 37 per cent
b. 0 per cent
c. 14 per cent
d. five per cent
b is the correct answer. The study was carried out at
Manchester Royal Infirmary.
Which statement is TRUE?
a. Most participants in sport are unaware of the potential
ocular hazards
b. The criterion for ocular safety when playing cricket is to
wear a helmet
c. The possibility of suffering serious eye injury if playing
sport without eye protection must be emphasised to
children when dispensing
d. In contact sports such as Judo there is no need to wear
any vision correction
a is the correct answer. In (b) the helmet is only one of
many safety features to be considered, depending on the
player’s role in the game. Instilling fear into children about
possible eye injury (c) is unlikely to produce a positive result
and could well impede their progress. In (d) the lack of a
refractive correction could cause an accident so advice should
be sought on the best method of providing it.
Complete the sentence correctly. Studies have shown
that the majority of serious injuries to the eye and
adnexa are caused…
a. …in the workplace
b. …during leisure activities and sport
c. …as a result of car accidents
d. …by assaults
b is the correct answer. In general, the figure is around 65
per cent of serious cases.
To download, print or save your CET result letter, go to
www.abdo.org.uk. Log-in and go to ‘View your CET record’.
Protective eyewear for sports by Kevin Gutsell FBDO(Hons)SLD
23
LOW
VISION
This month, Antonia Chitty explores how
to harness local support to better care for
patients with low vision and sight loss
Local support and services
I
f you are faced with a patient with
low vision or special needs, what do
you do? Increasing emphasis is being
placed on creating a High Street
optical practice fit for the 21st
century, that can offer a wider range of
services and meet all sorts of patient
needs – but you don’t need to do this on
your own.
In this article, we discover more about
how to work with local organisations and
build a local resource directory so you
always have the ability to help people at
your fingertips.
As we see a rise in sight loss due to an
ageing population, there are growing demands
on existing low vision services, but still some
people don’t know what help is out there.
Organisations like SeeAbility are campaigning
to raise awareness of the need for eyecare for
children and young people with complex
needs, but this can leave parents uncertain
of where to turn, particularly if they find
out that their child needs more help than a
pair of specs. This is where you can come in.
SIGNPOSTING SUGGESTIONS
A dispensing optician can be a great person
to signpost patients to more help. As a DO,
you already take time during the dispense
to listen to the patient and understand
their needs. If someone is hoping that their
new specs will enable them to read recipes
again, but you can see from their sight test
results that their VA isn’t great, you can talk
about “bigger”, “bolder” and “brighter”, and
put them in touch with local organisations
that can come to their house, offer training
or specialist equipment so that they can
stay independent.
If you aren’t sure about local support,
now is time to take action. Start by
discovering more about local societies for
blind and partially sighted people, and
support groups for people with different
conditions. You could talk to parent groups
and find out what is on offer for children
with special needs. Gather a leaflet from
24
A dispensing optician can signpost patients to more help
each organisation into a folder to have in
practice. This can stimulate your memory
when faced with a new patient, and act as a
resource for the whole team. Ask for large
print leaflets or create your own.
Write up a list of links to local
organisations, explaining what each
organisation does. This can be used to
spread the word. Add the list of local
organisations to your practice website, and
highlight each group in turn on your
practice Facebook page as a resource for
patients. Add a QR code to a poster
highlighting your new resource so people
can access the list on their phone.
When you have your resource directory,
hold staff training so everyone is able to
refer people on as appropriate. Invite your
local eye clinic liaison officer (ECLO) to run
a training session. To develop the
relationship further, you could invite an
organisation in to the practice to have a
stand or a window display. You could start
fundraising for an organisation or work
together on local PR for press and radio.
Trainee DOs who need to do a final year
project could focus on a condition and work
with a relevant local group.
LOCAL LOW VISION SUPPORT
Ashley Staniforth is a DO and works at the
low vision clinic at Barnsley Hospital. She
says: “Working in the hospital clinic has
helped me build on what I knew already
about the local support for people with
sight loss. We get quite a few people with
low vision into the practice and we refer
them to the clinic where we can dispense
them with low vision aids.
Ashley Staniforth works at the low
vision clinic at Barnsley Hospital
The rest of the
UK needs to
catch up with
Low Vision
Service Wales
Russell Ham, DO
Russell Ham works part-time for the
Low Vision Service Wales
“I have strong links with the local
Sensory Services Team. They assist people
to learn the skills they need at home and
help with rehabilitation after sight loss. I
saw a patient today who had nothing but
praise for the ECLO and the links to Sensory
Services. She is elderly, lives by herself, and
all her family are a long way away. Letters
and emails are vital to help her stay in
touch, and the electronic aids, loaned by
sensory services, allow her to do this.”
Ashley liaises with her local society for
blind and partially sighted people. She says:
“Barnsley Society for the Blind is particularly
helpful for patients who are secluded. It
gives them a support network. They have
day trips, support groups, and help people
get out and enjoy themselves.”
Dispensing optician Russell Ham spends
two days a week working for the Low Vision
Service Wales. The service offers assessment
and magnifiers, telescopes, telelenses, and an
electronic aid – all for free to those in need.
Russell explains what else he can offer
his patients: “I refer to local social services,
Sight Cymru, RNIB and the local ROVIs –
the rehabilitation officers for the visually
impaired. They go into the community to
help people with sight loss look after
themselves, and teach them to navigate
their local areas using the tools available
like tactile floor markers.”
Russell found out about the local
support available as part of the Low Vision
Service Wales training. He continues: “One
of the assignments was to make a list of
local resources, which got me off to a good
start. I also liaise with GPs. I had a lady in
this week who complained that although
she knew what medication she should take,
she couldn’t cope if they changed the brand
and colour of tablets. I wrote a referral to
her GP asking about Dosette boxes, which
help people take tablets safely. The GP liaises
with the pharmacist, who then supplies
medication boxed by day and time.”
People with low vision can find
themselves struggling with depression, says
Russell: “I have sent referrals to the charity
MIND. Low vision can be difficult,
depression is one of the things I need to
look out for and our local MIND offers
counselling.”
ONGOING BENEFITS
Low vision is not necessarily a static
condition, and people can find their vision
getting worse. As a DO you can identify
this, and discuss if patients might need
more help and support in the future.
Russell says: “I may refer people back
to the eye department for registration as
sight impaired. Becoming registered can be
a low priority and it takes time for a referral
to go through, but it is a huge door opener.
Once people are registered, they become
entitled to discounted or free TV licences,
free directory enquiries, and subsidised
telephone installation. Registration can also
add more weight to applications for social
services support.”
The low vision
side of optics
is underrated
Ashley Staniforth, DO
Russell says: “The rest of the UK needs
to catch up with Low Vision Service Wales –
low vision services are life changing. I’ve
lost track of the number of patients who
have cried because they can read or sew or
knit again, just because I have supplied
them with the right magnifier.
“I saw a lady with central vision loss
due to macular degeneration this week.
Using a specialist lens, I was able to
move where the light focuses, away from
her macular, improving her vision such
that she could see photos of her great
granddaughter for the first time in
many years.”
Ashley Staniforth is passionate about
the need for DOs to reach out and support
those with sight problems. She says: “There
isn’t enough knowledge about what is out
there. The low vision side of optics is
underrated. If more High Street practices
offered it, it would help patients understand
that sight loss isn’t the end of the world,
that there is help out there. I’m proud to
offer this service, and to link up with other
organisations to really make a difference to
people’s lives.”
If you are inspired by what these DOs
are doing, put aside some time to develop
your own local resource directory and build
links with local support groups.
USEFUL RESOURCES
• Eye Clinic Liaison Officers (ECLOs)
work in the eye clinic, and liaise with the
sensory team in social services. Being
diagnosed with sight loss is traumatic,
and ECLOs give people the practical and
emotional support they need to understand
their diagnosis, deal with their sight loss
and maintain their independence. Visit
www.rnib.org.uk/ecloinformation for a
register of hospitals in the UK with eye
clinic support.
• RNIB has a number of resource centres
across the UK where patients can get
information as well as try and buy
products to help them live independently.
It has four resource centres in England,
run by Action for Blind People, one in
Scotland (Edinburgh), one in Wales
(Cardiff), two in Northern Ireland and
one on the Isle of Man. Contact details
are in the Sightline Directory, www.sightline
directory.org.uk
• Visionary is a membership organisation
for local sight loss societies. It has a
postcode locator to help patients find
the closest society to them. Get in touch
with your local society and find out if they
offer resource centres, meet ups and
other services. www.visionary.org.uk
25
Technology has the potential to transform the lives
of people across the world living with sight loss.
Nicky Collinson reports
LOW
VISION
Getting smart with
LV technology
T
he World Health Organisation
states that 80 per cent of all
visual impairment can be
prevented or cured – and that
over the past 20 years,
significant progress has been made in
preventing and curing visual impairment
in many countries through government
intervention. The private technology and
charity sectors have also been
increasingly engaged in the provision of
low vision tools and services that are high
quality, available and affordable.
BREAKTHROUGH IN
REFRESHABLE BRAILLE
Affordability and accessibility have been the
key drivers in the development of the Orbit
Reader 20 – a new device which will reduce
the cost of braille displays by more than 80
per cent.
Produced by a consortium of sight loss
organisations from across the world led by
the RNIB, called the Transforming Braille
Group (TBG), the Orbit Reader 20 was
unveiled at CSUN 2016 in San Diego in
March, the annual International Technology
and Persons with Disabilities Conference.
TBG raised US$1.25m to get the display
from the drawing board, through three
prototypes, to an ex-factory model, and in
January the manufacturer, Orbit Research,
delivered 27 prototypes for user testing
around the world. The device will be less than
The Orbit Reader 20
26
Using OrCam wearable technology for
greater independence
a fifth of the cost of traditional braille
displays.
Kevin Carey, TBG president and chair of
the RNIB, said: “The cost of existing displays
is a major barrier to many blind and partially
sighted people being able to enjoy the
reading freedom of braille. It’s been a long
and challenging journey, but…we believe
[the Orbit Reader] will revolutionise the use
of refreshable braille across the world.”
Neil Heslop, managing director of RNIB
Solutions, added: “This development
represents a major breakthrough for braille
users. For 40 years, current technology has
been the preserve of the wealthy or
developed world, but we have now created
a game changing option whose affordability
brings it within the grasp of thousands.”
Field trials for the Orbit Reader are
ongoing and more information will be
available later this year. www.rnib.org.uk
NEW HOPE WITH WEARABLE TECH
Described in this month’s CET article by
Anthony Blackman (see pages 20-24),
OrCam wearable technology represents a
new advance in text to speech software for
people living with sight loss.
OrCam was founded in Jerusalem by
computer science researcher Professor
Amnon Shashua after his wife’s elderly aunt
pleaded with him to find a solution to her
vision loss. Shashua, together with CEO Ziv
Aviram, set to work with a team of
developers to create a miniature camera
that uses optical character-recognition
technology, mounted onto the frames of
people who are considered legally blind.
The device recognises text and reads it
to the user using an earpiece; it can also be
programmed to recognise faces and
commercial products.
New research carried out by researchers
with UC Davis Health System, California,
and published online in May in JAMA
Ophthalmology, (doi:10.1001/jamaophthalmol.
2016.1000) found the device dramatically
improved the ability of study participants
to read an email, newspaper article, menu
or page in a book.
Mark J. Mannis, professor and chair of
the UC Davis Department of Ophthalmology
and Vision Science and study co-author,
said: “This device offers hope to patients
who are beyond medical or surgical therapy
for the condition. It is easily used and could
potentially bring greater independence,
particularly for older patients who are
struggling with vision loss.”
Elad Moisseiev, co-author and UC Davis
vitreoretinal surgery fellow, added: “Patients
with low vision often are dependent on
hand-held or electronic magnifiers, which
may be somewhat cumbersome to use. This
is the first independent clinical study to
evaluate this new low-vision-aid device
based on novel optical-character
recognition technology. Our results show
that it can be a very useful aid for patients
with low vision in performing activities of
daily living, and increase their functional
independence.” www.orcam.com
LEADING THE WAY IN AUDIO
NAVIGATION
Developments in wireless technology to
assist the visual impaired gained new
ground recently with the publication of a
Standard will continue in a variety of other
settings through 2016. www.wayfindr.net
Wayfindr audio navigation on the
London Underground
(courtesy of Sophie Mutevelian)
working draft of the world’s first open
standard for audio navigation.
The Wayfindr Open Standard aims to
implement audio wayfinding solutions across
smartphone apps and locations to provide a
consistent and reliable navigation experience
for blind and partially sighted customers.
The standard covers the design of audio
instructions needs per context, deemed as
key considerations when designing for blind
people and recognised protocols to reassure
and orient vision impaired people. It also
provides best practices and guidelines on
the installation, configuration and
maintenance of wayfinding technologies,
such as Bluetooth Low Energy beacons, and
a demonstration mobile application.
Umesh Pandya, CEO and co-founder of
Wayfindr, said: “As we investigated solutions
to the global issue of independent travel for
blind and partially sighted people, it was
clear to us that we needed to do more than
create another app. The world’s software
developers and venue owners needed a
standard to rally around in their efforts to
improve the lives of the vision impaired.”
Wayfindr initially arose from a 2014
collaboration between the Royal London
Society for Blind People (RLSB) and digital
product studio, Ustwo, in response to a
need to travel independently on the London
underground.
Now a joint venture between RLSB and
Ustwo, Wayfindr will be a significant part of
RLSB’s new strategy, ‘No blind child can
wait’. It is hoped that Wayfindr will be
instrumental to changing the future for
blind young people and children.
Since its launch in late 2015, Wayfindr
has been developing and testing the Open
Standard, supported by a US$1m donation
from Google. The real world trials and testing
have been taking place in London and Sydney.
Testing and development of the Open
GREATER CONTROL FOR SMARTGLASSES
Researchers from the Schepens Eye Research
Institute of Massachusetts Eye and
Ear/Harvard Medical School have developed
a smartphone application that projects a
magnified smartphone screen to Google
Glass, which users can navigate using head
movements to view a corresponding
portion of the magnified screen.
The researchers have shown that the
technology can potentially benefit low
vision users, many of whom find the
smartphone’s built-in zoom feature to be
difficult to use due to the loss of context.
“When people with low visual acuity
zoom in on their smartphones, they see
only a small portion of the screen, and it’s
difficult for them to navigate around,” said
senior author Gang Luo, associate scientist
at the institute and an associate professor
of ophthalmology at Harvard Medical
School. “This application transfers the
image of smartphone screens to Google
Glass and allows users to control the
portion of the screen they see by moving
their heads to scan, which gives them a
very good sense of orientation.”
As next steps for the project, the
researchers hope to incorporate more
gestures on the Google Glass to interact
with smartphones, and to study the
effectiveness of head-motion based
navigation compared to other commonlyused smartphone accessibility features,
such as voice-based navigation.
“Given the current heightened interest
in smartglasses, it is conceivable to think of
a smart glass working independently without
requiring a paired mobile device in the near
future,” added first author Shrinivas Pundlik.
“The concept of head-controlled screen
navigation can be useful in such glasses even
for people who are not visually impaired.”
The study is published online in IEEE
Transactions on Neural Systems and
Rehabilitation Engineering (doi: 10.1109/
TNSRE.2016.2546062).
APPLIANCE OF SMART SCIENCE
Finally, inclusive design and smart technology
for household appliances have the potential
to boost the independence of older people
and those with sight loss and other disabilities,
new research suggests.
Two new reports, ‘Inclusive design: expert
views’ and ‘Smart appliances and the internet
of things’, released by consumer research
charity Rica and sight loss charity the Thomas
Pocklington Trust, highlight the need for
‘Game-changing technology’ in white
goods on the horizon
inclusive products and the potential
benefits of emerging smart technology for
older and disabled people, including those
with sight loss.
Interviews with 20 experts from
manufacturing, design and retail revealed
that, although inclusive design principles were
understood within the white goods and
heating controls industries, manufacturers
“still had some catching-up to do”.
However, the arrival of smart appliances
looks set to expand the horizon, according to
Rica and the Thomas Pocklington Trust, who
state: “With a projected value of over £25bn
by the year 2020, smart appliances will soon
become the largest global market sector. As
modern life will increasingly rely on the
ability of such products to communicate
with each other – the ‘Internet of Things’ –
all of the issues of digital inclusion and
exclusion will be felt in the home.
“The heating controls market is already
changing, with forward-thinking products
such as the new Hive Active Heating 2
thermostat from British Gas, designed with
inclusivity in mind and easily regulated via
a smartphone app. As demand increases and
active appliances populate a home network,
communication via a smartphone with
voice output can now give control to
people with sight loss, provided that apps
are well-designed and accessible.
“The Internet of Things has the
potential to revolutionise the use of kitchen
and heating appliances for those with sight
loss and other disabilities, as well as for
older consumers.”
Rica and the Thomas Pocklington Trust
are now urgently calling for manufacturers to
engage disabled and older people throughout
the entire product creation process, shaping
the development of what they are describing
as ‘game-changing technology’.
www.rica.org.uk, www.pocklingtontrust.org.uk
27
BLACK
ARTS
Our regular column from
immediate past ABDO president,
Peter Black
Slipping through the net
A
t the end of May, I spent four
days volunteering at the
Bradford Literature Festival in
support of the work of the
National Literacy Trust (NLT).
Dishing out thousands of free Zookeeper
Zoe eye check story books was a fantastic
experience.
My standard spiel would be to explain
that children are slipping through the net
and are living with undiagnosed vision
problems that result in poor performance in
school because many schools no longer
conduct vision screening. Zookeeper Zoe
has been developed to allow parents,
grandparents, teachers and carers to
conduct a basic vision screening check
whilst reading a fun story book with a child
aged from two to six or seven years old.
Most adults appreciate that being
unable to see properly, or concentrate for
extended periods without eye strain, is a
major contributing factor to poor
performance at school, delayed reading
development and ultimately poor literacy.
Yet there is an assumption amongst many
parents that their children’s eye sight is
being checked at school when, in fact, it
isn’t.
Others reported that although they
were aware eye checks no longer happened
in school, they hadn’t given their children’s
eyes a second thought – even though in
many cases one or both parents already
wore glasses. This isn’t really surprising
given that 53 per cent of children have
never had an eye test.
Parents who don’t themselves wear
glasses are often unaware that a free NHS
eye test is available for children at
community opticians.
Few things have made me as proud
during the course of my career as the work
that we are doing at Boots Opticians in
conjunction with the NLT. Colleagues have
been given 90,000 hours of paid volunteering
time in pursuit of better literacy and
28
eyecare. Some colleagues have become
better reading volunteers to help a
struggling child to practise reading aloud.
Others have given lessons based on
Zookeeper Zoe or its dedicated website,
while others have addressed school
assemblies.
Many colleagues have conducted vision
screening using the free software available
to schools from www.bootsvisionscreen.co.uk
and the related free vision screening kit. It
is not uncommon for five or six children in
each class (where screening has not previously
taken place) to need to be referred for an
eye examination, and although the children
are free to go to any optician, of those
subsequently tested by Boots the prescriptions
so far have ranged from -14.00D to +11.00D
DISTURBING FINDINGS AND FAILINGS
I am aware that Specsavers, Vision Express
and the Association of Optometrists have
all developed similar initiatives and that the
amount of children being found to have
previously undetected vision problems is
very disturbing. It is not just amblyopia
and strabismus that hold children back;
myopia, hyperopia, astigmatism and poor
accommodation can be just as damaging
to learning.
One must question now whether school
vision screening at age four/five is sufficient
even when it does take place. Surely there
should be a second screening opportunity a
year or two later, firstly to catch those who
fall through the net, and secondly to screen
for refractive error.
The NICER study from Northern Ireland
shows that around a quarter of children
have significant refractive error and that
the average onset of myopia has been
happening earlier and earlier reducing from
age 12 or 13 in the past to age six or seven
today. Children with one myopic parent are
three times more likely to be myopic
themselves. The offspring of two myopes
are seven times more likely to be myopic
compared to the general population. Yet we
are failing to educate parents properly.
Partly this is because people who don’t
wear glasses know little about the subject
and don’t think about it, and maybe assume
the school is taking care of things, but it is
also because the information they do get is
so poor.
The paediatric health record, The Red
Book, goes to every parent when a child is
born. It is full of useful information and is
an invaluable resource for new parents to
understand what normal child development
looks like, and to provide reassurance about
medical interventions such as vaccinations.
Yet, as I have said before on
www.itnhealthcarenews.co.uk, I believe that
the information on eyecare is simply not fit
for purpose. It makes the assumption that
school vision screening happens universally,
leading parents to believe their children are
being checked in school. The Red Book also
fails to inform parents of the universal
entitlement of children to free NHS GOS
sight tests at community opticians across
the country, and that children can be tested
at any age, regardless of whether they know
their letters or not.
It now appears that only around a third
of children in England have school vision
screening available to them, and according
to 2009 census data around one million
children are now falling behind in school for
want of visual correction. It is surely time
to improve the vision screening service and
to educate parents about their children’s
entitlement to free NHS sight tests.
For once it appears the whole optical
sector is agreed – so I live in hope.
PETER BLACK MBA FBDO is dispensing
standards manager for Boots Opticians,
an Ophthalmic Public Health Ambassador
and advisor to the ABDO board. He
represents ABDO on several committees
including the Vision 2020 Ophthalmic
Public Health Committee.
PREVIEW
Silmo 2016
Strength in continuity
C
ontinuity is the theme of
Silmo 2016, which takes place
from 23-26 September at the
Paris Norde Villepinte
convention centre located
near Paris-Charles de Gaulle Airport.
For almost 50 years, Silmo has
continued to weather the choppy waters of
the optics industry reporting a positive
business climate year after year with a rise
in visitor numbers in 2015. The organisers
are confident that this year will prove
positive once again as they ensure the show
meets the needs of visitors and exhibitors
alike, combining business and creativity
around four complementary categories –
fashion, health, innovation and training.
NEW FEATURES LINED-UP
Silmo’s various exhibition areas cover the
entire industry – from ophthalmic frames
and sunglasses, to spectacle lenses, contact
lenses, low vision equipment, optical
instruments, and practice interiors. Some
900 companies (including 100 first-time
exhibitors) from across the globe, along
with 1,350 designer brands divided into 12
segments, will attend this year.
Highlights of the 2016 exhibition
include: a Trends Pop-Up Store; a Secret
Store or Commerce 3.0; Silmo TV; Trends
Mag by Silmo; Low Vision stand; an Ab Fab
Lab stand dedicated to new technologies;
the Silmo Academy on the theme of
‘Reading’; and the Silmo d’Or Awards.
In addition to the show’s comprehensive
product offering, training and information
are the two important ‘add-on’ services.
Training and information literature will be
available along the aisles in dedicated areas,
Discover new processes
and technologies
including themed pop-up stores, and via
interactive terminals displaying the Trends
by Silmo digital magazine.
This year’s show also contains a new
space called the Experience Store. This will
focus on the new digital in-practice
experiences applied to the industry and will
offer “a unique interactive immersive
experience”, say the show organisers. The
‘digital store’ will reveal the latest
innovative technology, designed to help
practitioners to explore and develop new
services and solutions to improve the dayto-day running of the practice and business,
as well as to enhance the patient journey.
LEARNING AND RESEARCH
There will be a change in format for the
seventh Silmo Academy, with three days of
discussions from 10am-1pm in order to open
up the Academy to a larger number of visitors.
The theme of the symposium is ‘Reading’,
which will be explored via three sessions
simultaneously translated into English: 1)
Saturday 24 September ‘Reading and
reading processes’; 2) Sunday 25 September
‘Reading processes in children and adults’;
and 3) Monday 26 September ‘Specific
reading processes in older people’, followed
by ‘Reading: a challenge for public health’.
A forum to enhance knowledge and
discuss different facets of vision and
correction, the Silmo Academy is now a
renowned research centre. Introduced by
Professor Yves Pouliquen, a member of the
Académie Française, speakers for session
one include ophthalmologist Professor
Christian Corbé, neurologist Professor
Laurent Cohen, orthoptist Brigitte Ekpe,
optician Bruno Delhoste, researcher Jean
‘Reading’ is the theme of
this year’s Silmo Acdemy
Visitors can look forward to
several new show features
Luc Perrin, and Michel Favory, a member of
the Comédie Française.
For session two, delegates will hear
from optician Laurie A. Fitz, orthoptist
Chantal Savina Pernes, speech therapist
Annick David-Millot, ophthalmologist
Dr Quercia, optician N. Midol-Monnet,
lecturer Caroline Kovarski, optician Olga
Prenat, and lecturers Professors Mo Jalie
and Langis Michaud.
The final session will include speakers
Professors Langis Michaud and Jalie,
orthoptist Martine Routon, lecturer Prema
Chande, orthoptist Dominique Martin,
optician Charlotte Gaillard, ophthalmologist
Professor Serge Resnikoff, lecturer Professor
Langis Michaud, and lens expert Jean
Charles Leroux.
This year, the Silmo Academy plans to
award a €10,000 grant to a research project
in the field of optics and vision science.
Open to any individual researcher or
research team that submits an application,
the winning project will be selected by the
Silmo Academy Scientific Committee.
Applicants must be leading a research
project specifically in the field of optics and
vision science and be an EU national.
The deadline for submissions is 6
September, and full terms and conditions
can be found on the Silmo website,
www.silmo.com, along with details of how
to arrange your visit to this year’s show.
The winning project will be announced and
presented during the Silmo Academy
symposium.
And don’t forget to enter the special
competition exclusive to ABDO members
for your chance to win a trip for two to the
show. Details of how to enter can be found
on page 8 of this issue, with full terms and
conditions on the ABDO website,
www.abdo.org.uk
29
REPORT
Nick Howard reports on the
inaugural BCLA UK event, held
last month at the Belfry
Getting the inside
track at BCLA UK
I
t is said that the only constant in
life is change – and so it was a
progressive change of style and
format for the British Contact Lens
Association’s (BCLA) new annual
conference – BCLA UK. At a time when the
nation was considering whether to stay in
or opt out, the BCLA adopted a ‘UK only’
approach to its newest event of
excellence, innovation and performance.
The two-day programme offered 10
outstanding presentations in the main
lecture hall from some of the best on the
planet and three additional workshop tracks,
allowing ‘hands on’ experience in a total of
17 different subjects. This gave attendees
access to an entire range of skill sets, where
neither an undergraduate nor a seasoned
professional could fail to gain invaluable
and up-to-date exposure to all that is good
about the contact lens industry.
Arriving at the Belfry in Birmingham
more than four hours before the scheduled
first lecture, I quickly realised that I had
gained access to a privileged track on which
I might observe and reflect: a track not
listed in the brochure – the inside track.
The hotel complex was already alive,
buzzing and busy with preparations for the
exhibition, workshops and presentations.
This event did not start on 12 June – it
started months and months earlier. Once
‘badged up’, I headed for the ‘speaker ready
room’ where the presenters collectively
hone hours of research and preparation. In
awe of the attention to detail provided by
seasoned, internationally recognised experts
left no doubt as to the extent of
commitment, thought and dedication
required to deliver at this level.
MANAGEMENT AND MITES
The programme began with introductions
from the BCLA president, Brian Tompkins,
and BCLA CEO, Cheryl Donnelly, and a
reminder that the BCLA was celebrating its
30
40th birthday as Her Majesty was
celebrating her 90th.
After a few housekeeping rules, Dr
Michael Read from the University of
Manchester and Neil Retallic coolly and
seamlessly reiterated the huge clinical
benefits of contact lenses for young
patients and the enormous potential for
techniques such as myopia management.
Next Professor James Wolffsohn of
Aston University expertly managed the role
of considering patient demands and
expectations. He stressed that there was
clearly no ‘one size fits all’ in either product
or performance levels and as we managed
successfully to introduce new wearers –
especially in the presbyopic sector – then
dry eye and tear film management plans
were obligatory if success was to be
attained and maintained.
“One hundred per cent at 70 years old”
sang out the familiar tone of Sarah Farrant,
who had introduced me to the Demodex
mite several years ago. The ‘fat worm’ is as
unpleasant and prevalent today – if not
more so than I remember at my first
shocking observation of the irritating
creatures living inside the lash follicle.
Their home is certainly not their castle
though and Sarah was aptly able to
demonstrate not only well planned
detection, but also a methodology of getting
inside their habitat whilst simultaneously
removing their food source and exotoxins
from the outer surfaces of the lid margins.
Andy Clarke considers dry eye
business strategies
Delegates arriving at the rain-lashed Belfry
Real world case studies from young patients
increasingly trespass into clinical observations
and manifestations historically associated
with a much more mature generation.
Flowing smoothly into consideration of
the compromised ocular surface, Dr Clare
O’Donnell took a careful and considered
approach to a number of groups including
atopic, diabetic, post-refractive surgery and
other patients suffering from systemic
disease. The possibility of using special
sensors inside the matrix of a contact lens
to trigger a warning, or to provide an
electronic signal to indicate a change in
osmolarity or increasing intraocular pressue,
is possibly ‘space age’, but nonetheless a
very real, if embryonic, concept which
would be covered again the following day.
So the time whizzed by and the bunfight
and queue for room keys was rapidly followed
by a rather more sedate and relaxed queue for
a pleasing sip of pre-dinner champagne
inside the hotel foyer. The ensuing evening
saw four new BCLA Fellowships awarded to
clearly delighted recipients.
AFTERCARE AND GERM WARFARE
Effective communication was superbly covered
the next morning by the ever-exuberant Sarah
Morgan. In a light-hearted, free flowing
presentation, our dialogue, terminology and
choice of language in practice was scrutinised
and dissected with great panache and effect.
What we may mean inside our minds may
clearly not be what the patient hears, or wants
Dr Katharine Evans discusses
ocular surface disease
One of the many clinical workshops
The Room 101 panel
to hear. Our expectation of management and
progress may well differ from the strong desire
for the cure, ‘the holy grail’ of the patient –
another concept which would be considered
later in the day.
Dr Katharine Evans, possibly delivering
one of the most succinct and enthralling
lectures mid-morning, considered amongst
other topics the effect of hyperosmolarity
on the lid margin and metabolic changes
inside the meibomian gland, both of which
would have a notable impact on contact
wearing potential in both physical and
visual comfort terms. Dietary supplements,
lid wiper epitheliopathy, LIPCOF and other
anterior segment issues were all observed.
There is much still to learn in this arena,
but there seems to be a notable correlation
between contact lens wear and subtle, but
notable meibomian gland changes and this
excellent lecture was probably worth the
delegate fee alone. Compliance and
questioning techniques made me think
carefully over coffee and in no time at all
we were being introduced to Professor
Lyndon Jones – eternally seeking out that
elusive holy grail.
Strictly speaking, Professor Jones is now
A chance to visit the exhibition
a Canadian resident hence his presence at
BCLA UK is questionable – but his birthplace
is Wales and such is his status within the
truly global contact lens community that
nobody inside the confines of the conference
would even consider his contribution to
be anything less than highly significant
and appropriate.
A gripping and highly entertaining lecture
on patient compliance followed – covering
the inevitable risk taking and non-compliance
strategies, peaking with young males having
the highest risk potential. The ‘take home’
statement of the entire two-day programme
was surely: “When you flush the loo with
the seat up, 25,000 nasties are released into
the air in a plume cascading over a six-foot
splatter zone.” Yeuch…
Lunch and a whistle stop tour around a
busy and vibrant exhibition zone and the
post lunch peer review session continued to
challenge my attention and thought processes.
HUMOUR AND THEATRE
The main lecture hall was cleared for 30
minutes whilst frantic efforts ensued to set
up the eagerly awaited Room 101 featuring
a ‘all-star’ line-up of experts competing to
consign their pet hates to the notorious
bowels of Room 101. The aforementioned
Professor Jones was capably and theatrically
in charge of proceedings behind his
panelled desk complete with bright red
telephone and angle poise lamp.
The guest panel included the fabulous
Sarah Morgan, the outstanding Dr Carole
Maldonado-Codina and a rather quiet
cameo part from yours truly. Three rounds
of highly entertaining slapstick, charm, wit
and a healthy dose of toilet humour followed,
Professor Lyndon Jones on the
holy grail of compliance
Contact lens peer discussion
with some valuable key points driven home
in a quirky and highly abstract but nonetheless
imaginative, high energy format.
Handing the lapel microphone over to
Professor Philip Morgan for the closing
lecture – it was now becoming so apparent
how important the conference was to those
who wanted to stay at the forefront of their
chosen career. Suzanne Czerwinski, award
winning contact lens optician, commented:
“New technology and new developments
are changing and moving so much it is a
challenge to keep up. The BCLA conference
is a massive help. Listening to the world’s
leading experts sharing their research,
thoughts and approach is an opportunity
too good to miss”.
And on the subject of not wishing to
miss out, or let anyone down, presenter and
lecturer Ros Mussa travelled on crutches
from London with a broken knee to deliver
a first class workshop on lid management.
Quietly listening to innovative
developments on electronic circuitry in
contact lenses, the inevitable development
and structuring of myopia management
programmes and their effect on long-term
ocular health, and the research and challenges
still required in contact lens materials and
their impact on the ocular tissues, we may
not have discovered the inside track on the
‘perfect’ contact lens medium just yet – but
we are progressing.
NICK HOWARD FBDO (HONS) CL FBCLA
works in two hospitals in Lancashire
(Burnley and Blackburn) and three
independent practices in the North West
providing complex contact lenses including
ortho-k and dry eye management.
Sharing knowledge and ideas
31
DOs should be at the forefront of community
eyecare services – particularly in low vision,
writes Richard Rawlinson
JOTTINGS
Are you on the
right pathway?
I
was recently asked to put pen to paper (fingers to
keyboard) and provide an article relating to dispensing
opticians, local optical committees (LOCs) and
primary eyecare services. Now, having finished my
article, I have returned to the beginning to offer an
apology; not for my haphazard rambling prose but to my
colleagues from the devolved nations who already have
national schemes in place that benefit patients and
enhance their skillsets.
What follows relates only to England, but my research
into other areas of the UK has encouraged me to play a
part in addressing that imbalance.
In the past, my involvement with community services
was rather limited. Then, as a contractor, my business
became involved with the National Diabetic Eye Screening
Programme. I subsequently qualified as a retinal grader and
became one of a small group of dispensing opticians who
were able to contribute directly. That changed when Heart
of West Midlands Primary Eyecare Company (PEC) was
successful in a tender to supply three new commissioned
community services – minor eye conditions service (MECS),
intraocular pressure (IOP) and cataract – in the Walsall
clinical commissioning group (CCG) area.
It got me thinking: “How could I play a greater role?”
The local optical committee support unit (LOCSU) had
supported my LOC and the PEC with their tender, the
development of pathways, protocols, business plans and a
whole lot more bedsides. So, when I heard they were
looking for commissioning leads, I decided to apply. Eight
weeks later, I now work two days a week for LOCSU fitting
it around my dispensing role as part of a 10-strong
commissioning team.
COMMISSIONING AND LOCS UNPICKED
CCGs replaced primary care trusts in 2013 and are now
responsible for around £70bn to commission services. Unlike
General Ophthalmic Services (GOS), which is nationally
negotiated, the majority of eyecare commissioning goes
through the CCGs.
Only 30 CCGs have a MECS and this creates a postcode
lottery of eyecare. To see what services are offered in your
area, why not take a look at the ‘Atlas of Optical Variation’
on the LOCSU website, www.locsu.co.uk. There are huge
opportunities for optical practices to make a very big
difference. This is where your LOC comes in. All optical
practices – whether they are independents, small groups,
franchises, domiciliary companies or large multiples – are
32
represented by LOCs. There are 78 LOCs and members are
made up of local contractors (optical business owners) and
performers (optometrists). Many LOCs also co-opt dispensing
opticians (who are not contractors) to their committees.
Interestingly, more than 70 per cent of LOCs are
responsible for negotiating with two or more separate CCGs
and so approaches differ. We have an invaluable workforce
of dedicated part-time LOC members representing the
whole of optics. They develop relationships with CCG
commissioners. LOCs and their members benefit from
support, guidance and the assistance of LOCSU. Negotiations
can be complex and the need for assistance grows greater.
It is most reassuring that LOCSU is there to help.
WHAT IS LOCSU HOPING TO ACHIEVE?
There is a huge potential for LOCs to not only dramatically
increase the number of commissioned services they can
provide, but to maximise on the revenues of the 500
schemes already in place.
LOCSU developed the LOC Company model. This is
where a not-for-profit company is formed to represent all
local contractors. Along with the OptoManager IT platform,
this reduces administration for commissioners and,
importantly, it also allows practices of every size to
participate in services.
The world of NHS commissioning is evolving fast. There
are pressures on CCGs to save money – and quickly. LOCSU
is at the centre of these changes, ensuring LOCs are
supported and banging the drum for optics to the NHS.
Why do this? Well, not only are the patients we see every
day going to benefit from easy access to community-based
optical care, but as an industry we should be maximising on
the benefits to our businesses that this can bring.
CCGs need to meet the growing eyecare needs of the
ageing population and the commissioning of community
services will be instrumental in achieving this. It is
estimated that the potential annual income for optical
practices from stepped-down ophthalmology alone could
be in the region of £70m. That’s a significant sum – and if
optical businesses ignore the opportunities to be involved,
outside competitors will step in.
WHAT DOES THIS HAVE TO DO WITH DOS?
When considering the community eyecare pathways
currently in place, we see that the optometrists already
have a pivotal role to play in a changing landscape of
optical provision. A dozen established pathways already
exist encompassing areas such as MECS, glaucoma,
cataract, children’s vision, and learning disabilities – all
currently provided by optometrists. We also have low vision
pathways, which can be provided by optometrists and DOs.
Yes, you hear me correctly, we have a fully-accredited
adult low vision pathway that LOCs can offer to commissioners
that can be provided by DOs. More than 10 areas in England
are already involved and the potential and desire to provide
many more is huge. The pathway provides patients with a
community-based, easy-to-access, cost-effective service
and brings treatment into the heart of primary care, which
all DOs could provide.
I believe DOs could be at the centre of these schemes
and should be the ‘go-to’ workforce to provide them. “All
well and good,” you say, “but I don’t have an LVA
qualification.” Well, let’s look at how your LOC and LOCSU
can help.
HOW TO GET STARTED
LOCSU provides approved accreditation courses for all of
the main pathways and there’s one specifically for low
vision provided by the Wales Optometry Postgraduate
Education Centre (WOPEC). These courses enable us to
demonstrate to commissioners that we are competent in
the areas of care we provide, and that there is a consistency
in the skillsets available.
The LOCSU Low Vision Theory Course offers an 11-part
online training module with MCQs at the end (you receive
11 CET points). Your LOC can provide further details with
regard to accessing the course; the best of it is that the
entire course is fully funded.
If you are working in areas with a low vision pathway, a
major benefit of completing the WOPEC course is that you
will have access to case records, and can then expand your
knowledge and gain the Low Vision Honours qualification
with ABDO College.
If the optical profession is to become the primary
provider of low vision aids, then DOs should be the first
choice for any business. LOCs will need the support of DOs
to achieve this and, as a profession, we need to be ready.
Moving forwards, the NHS is committed to exploring
how other areas of healthcare can be provided more efficiently
in the community; these include smoking cessation, blood
pressure monitoring and slips and falls prevention. DOs
should be involved in this; we are registered professionals
who have the trust of our patients and we are located on
the doorsteps of those we look after.
I would encourage all DOs to engage with their LOC and
become involved with the future of eyecare in England. DOs
can actively contribute to the roles they play in the future
success of the profession as a whole. I believe DOs will be
able support many of the pathways of the future and, with
additional training, can be at the forefront of community
eyecare services.
If our workforce is expected to rise to the challenge of
providing primary eyecare then everyone needs to be
involved, that will include all of businesses, optometrists
and, importantly, DOs.
USEFUL LINKS
• http://www.locsu.co.uk/community-services-pathways/
community-services-map
• https://www.england.nhs.uk/commissioning/
• http://www.loc-net.org.uk
• http://www.locsu.co.uk/uploads/business_case_-_a_
breakthrough_strategy_for_optics_-__05_02_2016.pdf
• http://wopec.co.uk/course/28
• http://abdocollege.org.uk/course/low-vision-honours/
no pressure!
RICHARD RAWLINSON FBDO is a dispensing optician based
in Walsall, West Midlands, and was recently appointed a
commissioning lead for LOCSU. He also represents ABDO
on the UK Domiciliary Eyecare Committee.
Did Occles warm
Lorraine’s cockles?
W
hen a press release arrived on DO’s
desk about new Occles Travel Eyewear,
designed to provide ‘total blackout’ and
eye protection from UV rays and ‘light
pollution’, we thought we’d send a pair
to Lorraine Wallbank to roadtest on holiday.
Lorraine said: “On first inspection, my Occles looked to
me like the goggles you wear on a sunbed. But actually the fit
TRIED &
TESTED
FUN *****
FUNCTION *****
is much more comfortable because they have adjustable sides
and are very lightweight. And when you’re not wearing them
you can hang them round your neck like headphones.
“Occles do completely block out the light – and if I
was on a plane and wanted to sleep this would be ideal. But
when using them around the pool sunbathing I found them
a bit of a nuisance because I kept having to take them on
and off to talk to people.
“To give Occles a fair hearing, I also took them to work
and asked friends what they thought. The consensus was
that they do exactly what they say on the tin but they are
not the most attractive or practical of items.”
CE marked and available in black, aqua and white,
Occles were recently featured in The Sunday Times travel
section, and on CNN as one of the ‘hottest new accessories
for the traveller’. If you think they might catch on in your
practice, contact Christina Mitchell on 020 8144 8127 or
email [email protected]
33
Jobs & notices
Closing date – 31 July 2016 –
for Supervisor Registration
and arrangements for the
Practice Visit and In-Practice
Assessment for those wishing
to sit the winter 2016 Contact
Lens Practical Examinations
Those planning to sit the winter 2016 practical
examinations – to be held in January 2017 – for
the Certificate in Contact Lens Practice should note
that the closing date for registering Supervisors
for Provisional Approval is 31 July 2016.
Candidates wishing to sit the CL practical
examination in winter 2016 must have at the
time of their examination application, and
throughout the period up to and including their
practical examination, a supervisor and practical
experience practice on the current ABDO
approved register – or have been given
provisional approval following completion of a
supervisor/practice registration application form.
An in-practice assessment must also have been
completed prior to the practical examination.
Completed Application for Provisional Approval
of Supervisor and Practice for Contact Lens Training
forms, relevant to the winter 2016 sitting, must
reach the ABDO offices in Kent by 31 July 2016.
Late arrival of the relevant documentation
will mean deferment to the following
examination session.
The Application for Provisional Approval of
Supervisor and Practice for Contact Lens Training
form can be found within the Contact Lens
Training Pack issued in the autumn, or is available
upon request from the ABDO Examinations &
Registration Department on 01227 732921/732924
or email: [email protected]
WE WANT YOUR STORIES
• Have you worked with a business
development coach or an enterprise
agency?
• Are you embracing health promotion
in your practice – maybe as part of
the Healthy Living Optician scheme,
via eye health supplements, or the
development of a minor eye
conditions service?
• Do you have a patient aged 40-60
years who had an unexpected eye
disease detected on their first visit
to the opticians? We’re looking for
patients who are willing to speak
to the media.
Email [email protected] and let
us know your stories….
34
PART-TIME D.O.
WANTED
MORGAN WHITE
OPTOMETRISTS
is looking for
1-2 days a week
at our practice in
Oxfordshire
Fully supported by
knowledgeable and
friendly staff with the
latest technology in
dispensing (Nautilus VR
Headset and VisioOffice)
Competitive terms offered
Please contact
Andrew Morgan
at [email protected]
To place an
advert,
telephone
0781 273 4717
or email
ncollinson@
abdo.uk.com
Booking
deadline for the
August issue is
Thursday 7 July.
Special rate for
ABDO members
FURTHER YOUR CAREER
AT CITY AND ISLINGTON
COLLEGE
Take our straightforward route to a more
clinically satisfying career.
f
DIPLOMA IN OPHTHALMIC
DISPENSING (FT/PT)
f
CONTACT LENSES
THEORY AND PRACTICAL
f
OPHTHALMIC
DISPENSING FDSC
With day release and
part time options, you
can qualify while
you work.
Taught at our
central London
location by highly
qualiﬁ ed practitioners.
Apply now:
candi.ac.uk
For more info, contact:
desire.safﬁ[email protected]
020 7520 7461
‘THROUGH THE
PINHOLE’ SERIES
PARTICIPANTS WANTED
DOES YOUR PRACTICE OFFER SPECIALIST SERVICES IN,
FOR EXAMPLE, DRY EYE, PAEDIATRICS, SPORTS VISION,
LOW VISION AND/OR OTHER NICHE AREAS?
We’re looking for member practices to feature
in our ‘Through the pinhole’ series
showcasing the fantastic work that ABDO
members are involved with above and beyond ‘the
everyday job’ of dispensing
Email [email protected]
to register your interest in taking part
abdo
COLLEGE
Let us further your career
Foundation Degree / BSc (Hons)
in Ophthalmic Dispensing (Year 1)
Fellowship Dispensing Diploma (Year 1)
ABDO College offers a choice of two distance learning courses
on the route to becoming a qualified dispensing optician:
ABDO College provides comprehensive
education for dispensing opticians and is
currently accepting applications for a range
of different courses. Some of the reasons
why you should make ABDO College your
first choice to either start or further your
career in optics are:
• An extensive range of courses to suit
your individual needs
• Dedicated and experienced academic staff
• Friendly and supportive learning
environment
• Consistently high theory and practical
examination results
• Helpful course tutors
• Vibrant and positive attitude towards
students
• Committed to the furtherance of
dispensing optics
• Established by the profession for
the profession
• A proven track record
of success
Option 1
A two-year Foundation Degree course
followed by a third year BSc Degree course
in Ophthalmic Dispensing – leading to
BSc (Hons) and the ABDO Level 6 FBDO
qualifications.
Option 2
A three-year diploma course in Ophthalmic
Dispensing – leading to the ABDO Level 6
FBDO qualification.
Course features
• Combines academic and work-based
learning
• 32 weekly distance learning units in each
academic year
• Four weeks block release at Godmersham
in each academic year
• Access to supplementary web-based
interactive tutorial presentations
• Block release accommodation can be
provided
• Year 1 courses will commence in
September 2016
Entry requirements
• Grade C or above GCSE in English,
mathematics, science and two other
subjects, including evidence of recent
learning
• Applicants must be working in practice
as a trainee dispensing optician for a
minimum of 30 hours per week and have
the support of their employer
For further information and application forms
for these and other courses, or to request
a copy of the ABDO College Prospectus,
please contact the ABDO College Courses Team
on 01227 738 829 (Option 1) or email
[email protected]
ABDO College Operational Services,
Godmersham Park, Godmersham,
Canterbury, Kent CT4 7DT
www.abdocollege.org.uk
KEEPING EXCELLENCE IN YOUR SIGHTS
Make the most of your
ABDO membership
Y
our ABDO membership provides a comprehensive range of
benefits and services that can assist you in both your personal
and professional life. Indeed, your annual subscription fee can easily
be subsidised by the savings that are on offer and available to you.
ABDO MEMBER BENEFITS INCLUDE:
• Professional indemnity Insurance
• NUS extra - Student Discounts Card
• Personal accident cover
• Savings on all your travel needs
• Helplines - FREE 24-hour service
• 17% off worldwide attraction
tickets
• CET
• Dispensing Optics
• Advice and Guidelines
• Cashback on everyday purchases
• 25% saving off your current home
insurance
• 10% saving off your current car
insurance
• Save 20% on Columbus Direct
travel insurance policies
Take full advantage of what’s on offer!
Association of British Dispensing Opticians
• Save an average of 40% on
cinema admissions
• Access to an exclusive network of
over 2,800 health clubs, gyms and
leisure centres
• Get the latest Mobile phones on
the best rates available from EE
• Great savings on a wide range of
Apple products
• Member benefit plans with HMCA

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