DISPENSING OPTICS - MAY 2018 - ABDO
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MAY 2018
DISPENSING
OPTICS
N EW S , I N F ORMATION an d
E D U C ATI ON fo r OP TICIANS
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Dispensing Optics MAY 2018
15. Contents
17. 27.
22. 6.
Features Regulars
16. Product Spotlight 5. DO Dispatches
Advances through the looking glass
6. A DO and proud of it
20. Continuing Education & Training
Certification, registration and low vision:
8. News
the role of the dispensing optician 30. Black arts
by Rasmeet Chadha
31. FAQs
24. Words from the workshop
Fixing the fixable, ready for exams 32. Through the pinhole
by Mark Turner With Linda Gilbert
of Heather Bailey Optometrists
26. In practice
Working with allied professionals 34. Jobs & Notices
by Antonia Chitty
28. BCLA events
BCLA in the cities
Inserts
FRONT COVER FODO Optics at a Glance
Transitions Signature
in Amethyst
Dispensing Optics MAY 2018 3
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DISPENSING OPTICS
The Professional Journal of the Association
of British Dispensing Opticians
VOLUME 33 NO 5
EDITORIAL STAFF
Editor
Assistant Editor
Managing Editor
Sir Anthony Garrett CBE HonFBDO
Jane Burnand
Nicky Collinson BA (Hons)
DO Dispatches
Email ncollinson@abdo.uk.com
Design and Production Rosslyn Argent BA (Hons) TIME TO FOCUS ON
Email rargent@abdo.uk.com
LOCAL COMMISSIONING
Admin. Manager Deanne Gray HonFBDO
Email dgray@abdo.uk.com
For the third year running, the Department
EDITORIAL/ADVERTISING of Health has announced a freeze in GOS
Telephone 0781 2734717 fees (see News page 8). Year by year, the
Email ncollinson@abdo.uk.com
Website www.abdo.org.uk
value of the fee is diminishing against the real cost of
providing an NHS eye examination. This, in turn, just puts
SUBSCRIPTIONS more and more pressure on businesses to cover their costs
UK £150
Overseas £175, including postage by other means.
Apply to Tom Veti
Association of British Dispensing Opticians This is a situation that suits any government perfectly; they
Godmersham Park, Godmersham, Kent CT4 7DT still get the service, have to pay proportionately less each
Telephone 01227 733922 year, and any blame for increased cost of spectacles is levelled
Email tomv@abdo.org.uk
Website www.abdo.org.uk at the business not the government. The Optometric Fees
Negotiating Committee has made detailed and compelling
ABDO CET
representations to the Department for a fair increase in fees,
Head of CET Paula Stevens MA ODE BSc(Hons)
MCOptom FBDO CL (Hons)AD SMC(Tech) so it is not for the want of trying.
In reality, we hold no aces and cannot force higher payments.
ABDO CET, 5 Kingsford Business Centre, Layer Road,
Kingsford, Colchester CO2 0HT But what we do have is the ability to look to increase our
Telephone 01206 734155 footfall through other means. The path of increased locally
Email abdocet@abdo.org.uk commissioned services is one way to significantly improve
CONTINUING EDUCATION REVIEW PANEL the position of many practices – and it’s why the
Joanne Abbott BSc(Hons) FBDO SMC(Tech) appointment by the Local Optical Committee Support Unit
Keith Cavaye FBDO(Hons)CL FBCLA
(LOCSU) of a new director of ophthalmology is so important
Andrew Cripps FBDO(Hons) PG Cert HE FHEA
Kim Devlin FBDO(Hons)CL (see News page 10).
Stephen Freeman BSc(Hons) MCOptom FBDO(Hons) FHEA Cert Ed
Abilene Macdonald Grute BSc(Hons) MCOptom BSc(Hons) FBDO(Hons) The arrival of Christiane Shrimpton gives LOCSU and, therefore,
SLD(Hons)LVA Dip Dist Ed Cert Ed
the sector a huge boost in our ability to negotiate meaningful
Richard Harsant FBDO(Hons)CL(Hons)LVA
Angela McNamee BSc(Hons) MCOptom FBDO(Hons)CL FBCLA Cert Ed local services. As an ophthalmologist with extensive knowledge
Linda Rapley BSc(Hons) FCOptom PGDip PGCE of developing new and innovative local pathways, Christiane
Andrew Stokes FBDO SMC(Tech)
brings a completely new set of skills to the sector and I hope
JOURNAL ADVISORY COMMITTEE everyone will warmly welcome her appointment.
Richard Crook FBDO
Kim Devlin FBDO(Hons)CL Sir Anthony Garrett
Kevin Gutsell FBDO(Hons) SLD
ABDO general secretary
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, Ashford, Middlesex TW15 1AB
© 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: 9,437 (Jan-Dec 2017)
ABDO Board certification
Dispensing Optics MAY 2018 5
A DO
CLIVE MARCHANT FBDO & PROUD
Our monthly column
from the ABDO president
I’m a DO and proud of it
M
ay I begin my first column
for Dispensing Optics as
ABDO president by
thanking those ABDO
members who voted for
me to become a member of the ABDO
board. Also, the members of the ABDO
board for having the confidence in me to
become president for the next two years.
Becoming ABDO president last month
was, without doubt, the pinnacle of my
optical career. But one must always remember
that it’s the members who place me in this
exalted position and it’s the members who I
will always strive to support and promote.
PART OF THE TEAM
For those readers who don’t know me, Clive receives the chain of office from Fiona Anderson
here’s a little about my background and
career. I started working in 1976 at Scrivens Right from my early days of training, I or blind people. This was hailed as the
as a trainee dispensing optician, qualifying regularly attended ABDO Area 5 CET demise of dispensing opticians. This has
in 1980. Whilst training, I worked in many meetings and national conferences – and I turned out to be very far from the truth. We
practices on a permanent and mobile basis – was Area 5 secretary and chairman for have just gone over the 6,000 fully qualified
and later upon qualifying, I was promoted several years. membership mark and ABDO College has
to the position of practice manager. During my time on the ABDO board record numbers of students studying.
In 1981, I joined my sister and brother- and as vice president, I was part of the There is more demand for dispensing
in-law, Linda and Colin Lee, who had just team redesigning the ABDO structure. Our opticians than ever, with a shortage in
opened their second practice. I opened a new regional structure now has six fantastic many parts of the country. Our role is
third practice in Rugeley, Staffordshire, in regional leads with an ever-growing pool expanding and there are many directions
the same year the week before Christmas of sub-regional leads along with LOCs, that our careers can take us, which I will be
after several weeks of fitting out, which we AOCs and ROC members – all promoting discussing over the coming months.
had undertaken ourselves. Returning to dispensing opticians at a local level across What is important is that we all have
work after the Christmas break, we were the UK. self-belief. We are qualified dispensing
horrified to discover the practice had flooded Our CET Department is supported by our opticians, and we have all studied for three
due to a burst pipe – what a start for a new previous Area teams, who provide a staggering years to gain a first-class qualification and
practice. But it was a good omen, as the number of free CET events and opportunities undertake ongoing CET. We should be very
practice thrived and we recently moved for for us all. I have always been involved with the proud of who and what we are, undertaking
a second time into larger premises. local optical scene and have been a member our daily tasks to the highest standards
Over the next few years, we grew to of two local optical committees. possible. We should all be promoting
seven practices – some we opened from I also chaired the new National Clinical ourselves, our qualifications and our
scratch and some we took over. We have Committee during my term as vice Association at every opportunity – to our
expanded and contracted over time, and president, overseeing the committee’s remit patients, colleagues and employers.
currently we have seven practices. Colin and to enhance and promote dispensing and I never want to hear us putting
Linda retired 13 years ago when I took on CLOs at every level. ourselves down. I so often hear the words:
full responsibility for the company. We have “I’m only the DO” or “I’m just the
more than 60 employees, including 11 BRIGHT FUTURE AHEAD dispenser”. This must stop. I’m a dispensing
dispensing and contact lens opticians How do I see our future? Well, in my optician and proud of it. Keep an eye out
(CLOs). I still practise one day a week as a opinion, it’s very bright. In 1985, the function for the #NotJustaDO hashtag on social
CLO, which keeps me in contact with our of dispensing spectacles was deregulated media alongside all our stories about the
job at the coalface. except for children, partially sighted people amazing work that dispensing opticians do.
6 Dispensing Optics MAY 2018
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NEWS
TM
light under TM
control
transitions.com
Patients’ eyesight at risk, says OFNC New brand identity Photochromic performance is influenced by temperature,
UV exposure,and lens material.
©2018 Transitions Optical Limited.
BIG FEES FREEZE CONTINUES ALL UNDER CONTROL
The freeze on fees for General Ophthalmic Services (GOS) is set to continue after the Hot on the heels of its new brand identity
government confirmed last month that the NHS sight test fee would remain at £21.31. reveal, Transitions Optical has launched a
The response of the Optometric Fees Negotiating Committee (OFNC) has been one of new consumer campaign, named Light
“deep frustration and anger” on behalf of the profession. The decision came, said the OFNC, Under Control, to drive demand in the
despite strong evidence for an increase and at a time when more generous settlements were photochromic lens category.
being offered to NHS staff and contractors. The OFNC was, however, offered small The company has designed a new
increases of one per cent on CET fees and grants for pre-registration optometrists. brand logo, tagline, imagery and videos to
Trevor Warburton, OFNC chair, commented: “This continued freeze on fees is completely communicate the benefits of
unacceptable and a real blow. There is no way the profession could sign up to such a photochromic lens technology, with the
position on fees and this is not a ‘negotiated settlement’. This means that, once again, aim of showcasing Transitions to a broader
the Department has imposed a real-terms cut on this key public service. age range of patients.
“The profession and GOS providers will be bitterly disappointed, especially when seen To kick-start the campaign, a video has
against more positive settlements being announced elsewhere and the powerful been produced for practitioners to play in
arguments made by the OFNC in support of an increase, including the additional cost practice or on their websites, showing how
burdens on providers. The costs of operating community optical practices have increased photochromic molecules react to light on
every bit as much as for other primary care contractors.” the surface of the lens to make eyewear
OFNC secretary, Ann Blackmore, added: “The OFNC has stressed the urgent need for “intelligent”.
the Department and NHS England to find funding for IT connectivity in the coming year. An additional four consumer films have
The short-sighted rejection of previous bids and lack of risk assessment means that been made, each exploring the busy city life
patients’ eyesight is at risk from the withdrawal of fax machines for urgent referrals. NHS of an individual who is “always on the go
Mail will be a temporary fix but the NHS drive to be paperless means the problem will and needs an eyewear solution to suit their
return in spades unless there is investment in the optical sector.” lifestyle”. These will be shown as part of a
Papers relating to the 2017-18 fees negotiations round are available at new multimedia campaign, with supporting
www.opticalconfederation.org.uk/resources/ofnc practice marketing materials available.
Ellesmere Port, was to consider: when In the same time period, the rotation ‘away
TORIC SCLS BETTER assessing a patient with low cylinder from intended’ reduced dramatically in
FOR DISTANCE corrections, should a best sphere or a toric some subjects. This indicated that toric
lens be selected initially? The aim was to SCL assessments would be more accurately
The results of a new clinical trial unveiled
offer an insight into the positive and assessed at a longer time period than has
by ABDO at Optrafair last month indicate
negative outcomes of the selection process been historically the case. If initial
that toric daily disposable soft contact
to enable the practitioner to make a more assessments were carried out at 20
lenses (SCLs) give better objective and rational decision – and to point to areas minutes then it should be expected that
subjective vision for distance. However, where progress could be made to enable a more patients will be found not suitable
for intermediate and near vision, the daily disposable toric SCL to become the than if assessed later.
overall conclusions were less clear cut, lens of first choice. “Although toric lenses scored better
i.e. the toric cyl axis may, in some cases, Andrew said: “The trial results also (DVA) or at least equal (IVA and NVA) than
be influenced by convergence and inferior showed that objective distance and near spherical prescriptions, when it came to
gaze and hence adversely affect vision. visual acuities improved at follow-up at two comfort, this result was reversed. The trial
The premise of the trial, conducted by to three hours compared with dispensing indicates that manufacturers should pay
Andrew Price and Bill Long at Focus In at 20 minutes for the toric SCLs; for the attention to improving comfort of toric
Opticians and Rhyl and Orrel Opticians, spherical SCL there was very little change. lens design,” Andrew added.
8 Dispensing Optics MAY 2018
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NEWS
OPTRAFAIR CELEBRATES
POSITIVE 40TH SHOW
Despite ongoing challenges, the
Federation of Manufacturing Opticians
(FMO) reported a positive outcome and
vibrant atmosphere for its 40th
anniversary trade show last month.
Held at the NEC in Birmingham from
14-16 April, Optrafair 2018 attracted more
Christiane Shrimpton
than 7,000 visitors – with 70 per cent of
exhibitors already having booked for next
LOCSU HIRE A year’s show (30 March to 1 April).
The FMO and its exhibition partner, Celebratory cake
“DOUBLE COUP” Mark Allen Exhibitions, reacted to exhibitor frames. Visitor numbers hit more than
The appointment of a director of and visitor feedback after last year’s show 7,000 and over 70 per cent of exhibitors
ophthalmology by the Local Optical and introduced a number of improvements, have rebooked for Optrafair 2019. If you
Committee Support Unit (LOCSU) will help notably an earlier start, breaks in the provide a show where visitors are engaged
primary care optics reduce hospital education programme and more with the products, not just the CET, and
backlogs and build closer ties with hospital entertainment. This year marked the 40th where exhibitors are selling to buyers, then
eye departments, says the organisation. anniversary of Optrafair, launched in 1978, you have it all.”
Since 2014, Christiane Shrimpton has and the NEC presented a cake to celebrate FMO chair, Andy Yorke, added: “I was
led major service reforms as ophthalmology the occasion to FMO members who had absolutely delighted with the vibrancy
lead for the Better Care Together (BCT) supported the show for many years. and atmosphere at Optrafair 2018. Over
Initiative, which saw almost 6,000 FMO chief executive, Bryony Pawinska, the three days we spoke with many
appointments move from the hospital eye said: “FMO and our exhibition partners Mark customers new and old, and we were
service to community optical practices in its Allen Exhibitions have invested heavily in extremely satisfied with the outcome of
first year. Morecambe Bay chose to pioneer developing a modern trade show that meets the show. I’m looking forward to the next
reform of the ophthalmology service in the needs of all exhibitors so that visitors 12 months and the challenges that this
which Christiane was appointed as BCT lead can come to one place to see everything will bring as I truly believe there is a high
in the initial phase of the programme. that is new in optical and ophthalmological degree of positivity throughout the whole
LOCSU chief operating officer, Richard technology as well as the latest lenses and optical industry.”
Whittington, said: “The reform of NHS
delivery and the introduction of population-
level, integrated care is a huge opportunity
to reduce pressures on the hospital eye
services by moving minor eye conditions
and routine monitoring of stable conditions
into primary care.
“The fact that Christiane brings both
ophthalmology expertise and hands-on
strategic skills in pathway redesign is a double
coup for LOCSU and the optical sector.” One of the new ladies’ models
Christiane added: “Having experience of
a population-based approach to pathway
URBAN STYLE CHOICES
redesign, and working across organisational Silhouette has added two new models for women and one for men to its Urban
boundaries to make community eye services Fusion range.
both cost-effective and more convenient for The award-winning collection combines Silhouette’s SPX material and its high-tech
patients, is at the heart of both health reform titanium to create a range of strong, lightweight frames. Featuring in-line glazing and a
and improvement. I look forward to working snap-hinge design, the frames come in stylish colour options – from a dusky pink shade
with the community sector to ensure it is part for women to a silky blue for men. A choice of matte finishes is available to enhance the
of the solution to reducing hospital pressures.” colourway of each frame.
CooperVision has added a new toric patients’ eyes by blocking more than 90
NEW FAMILY EXTENSION contact lens to its Avaira Vitality per cent of UVA and 99 per cent UVB rays.
monthly product portfolio featuring Mark Draper, CooperVision head of
the company’s Optimised Toric Lens marketing and professional services, said:
Geometry. “We’ve received such positive feedback
The naturally wettable silicone from practitioners since we launched
hydrogel material of Avaira Vitality toric, Avaira Vitality sphere. We’re excited to add
combined with a high water content, is a toric version to the family, allowing more
said to provide long-lasting comfort whilst patients to experience the lens’ comfort,
the Class 1 UV filter helps protect health and vision benefits.”
10 Dispensing Optics MAY 2018Titanium STEPPER (UK) Limited 11 Tannery Road Tonbridge Kent TN9 1RF 01732 375975 www.stepper.co.uk Frame style shown: SI-60171
NEWS
Optrafair debut for Independents’ Lounge
Chris Beal
INDEPENDENTS’ LOUNGE SUCCESS
NEW VP NAMED The National Eyecare Group (NEG) welcomed independent practitioners to its first-
ever Independents’ Lounge space at Optrafair last month.
Chris Beal has become vice president UK The space, co-sponsored with SPECS network, Lloyds Bank and VSP Vision Care,
and Ireland at Charmant UK, following provided visitors with one-to-one access to a host of business experts to discuss
the retirement of Louise Brunton after everything from marketing and finance to recruitment and domiciliary optical services.
more than 20 years at the helm. Also on display were in-practice solutions such as FittingBox’s virtual try-on technology
With over two decades of senior for eyewear dispensing, and Digitact’s smart barcode technology eGrab, which uses radio
management experience in the industry, frequency identification to help make patient frame selection more intuitive. The Lounge
most recently with Menrad, Chris said: “I’m also welcomed Elodie Draperi from GiveVision, the London and Birmingham-based start-
absolutely delighted to be joining the up developing high tech low vision aids to enhance people' remaining sight.
Charmant Group at this exciting time for Phil Mullins, NEG director of business development, said: “We were really pleased to
both the company and the optical industry introduce this exciting new feature at this year’s Optrafair. Over the three days we
as a whole. With our global operation, provided a range of expert advice to our members and other independents to help them
incredible heritage and commitment to add to their bottom line, increase dispensing value and build their practices in general.
future development we have an amazing “By demonstrating to independents how, for instance, they can use a lens meter to
show patients what wearing progressive lenses can be like, we hope we provided all
platform from which to implement our
Lounge visitors with several ‘take-home’ messages or skills to help them increase their
new growth strategy.”
dispensing value and profitability once back in the practice.”
DATES FOR PHOTOCHROMIC CONTACT LENSES ON THEIR WAY
PRESBYOPIA DAYS A new category of photochromic contact lenses will dawn next year in the form of
Alcon has announced new dates for its Acuvue Oasys with Transitions Light Intelligent Technology.
presbyopia education days at the Alcon Transitions Optical has partnered with Johnson &
Academy for Eyecare Excellence in Surrey Johnson Vision to expand Transitions’ light-adaptive
and ‘on the road’. photochromic technology beyond spectacle lenses.
Designed principally for optometrists “Transitions Optical has long been the leader in light
and contact lens opticians, attendees can management technology, mastering light for over 28 years,”
earn eight CET points, with dispensing said Chrystel Barranger, president of Essilor Photochromics
opticians also invited to attend and earn and Transitions Optical. “This breakthrough technology
will revolutionise contact lenses and photochromics by
five CET points. Working with the UK and
introducing the benefits of light adaptation to more patients.”
Irish Schools of Optometry to gain access
The lenses will feature a dynamic photochromic filter
to their facilities, the days will take place
that helps to continuously balance the amount of light
in Dublin, Plymouth, Manchester and
entering the eye; reducing exposure to bright light indoors
Ulster. To find out dates and to book a
and outdoors, including filtering blue light based on the
place, practitioners are advised to contact Breakthrough in contact level of activation and blocking UV rays.
their Alcon business development manager. lens tech “Eyeglass wearers have long enjoyed the light
In other news, Alcon has added three management benefits of Transitions lenses; we know that people who wear our product
new features to its InContact digital platform love it,” added Chrystel. “Innovations like this reflect our efforts to diversify our product
for independent practices, allowing them offering, modernise our brand and make it relevant to more, and younger, wearers. Now,
to connect with contact lens wearers whether they are wearing contacts or eyeglasses at different stages of their life, all types
across the UK. The upgrade consists of of people can enjoy the benefits of Transitions Light Intelligent Technology.”
three new subscription benefits including: Following 510(k) clearance from the US Food and Drug Administration, the two-week
‘Aftercare recall’, ‘Invite new and existing reusable, spherical contact lens will be commercially available from Johnson & Johnson
patients’ and ‘New notification email’. Vision in the first half of 2019.
12 Dispensing Optics MAY 2018Keep your competitive edge Over 1100 UK independent optical practices, like yours, benefit from being members of the National Eyecare Group. We offer preferential purchasing terms, exclusive products and promotions, simplified accounting with one monthly invoice for all purchases and a range of business support. MEMBERSHIP BENEFITS: No joining fees Preferential purchasing terms No minimum spends Simplified accounting Unique holiday incentive scheme Full business support Visit www.nationaleyecare.co.uk for more information or for a no obligation in practice consultation please call Sandi Charlesworth FBDO on 07794 096647 Supporting your independence since 1979 edge@nationaleyecare.co.uk www.nationaleyecare.co.uk
NEWS
Fashion for the face
SEASONAL PASTELS FOR
SPRING/SUMMER
The new Brendel eyewear releases from
International Eyewear celebrate the
delicate shades of the colour spectrum Richard Holmes
for spring/summer.
New Summit sunglasses There are nine new styles available
centred around a pastel colour palette. The ‘SHOULD’VE GONE TO’
designs pair delicate acetate shades with GURU DEPARTS
ADVENTURE complementary metallic highlights.
Demonstrating the power of pastel, The man behind Specsavers’ ‘should’ve
PROTECTION highlights of the new launch are models gone to’ tagline has departed the company
Paying homage to its historical 903110 and 903109, which come with to concentrate on other business interests
mountaineering expertise, Cébé’s new three refreshing shades to choose from. and charitable enterprises.
glacier sunglasses Summit offer a choice Richard Holmes spent 11 years at the
of category four or photochromic BRAND JOINS SCHEME company as global brand director leading
category two to four lenses. the brand’s development internationally,
Tom Davies has joined SightCare’s
As such, they are ideal for the harsh building its online presence and digital
preferred eyecare suppliers (SPECS)
light typical in mountain surroundings, scheme, which provides independent apps and driving store design standards.
featuring removable leather side-shields practices access to more than 50 optical Joint CEO, John Perkins, said: “On first
for expert protection in extreme companies with centralised billing. joining us, [Richard] said that he would
environments. The lightweight, nylon TR90 Tom Davies said: “We are very excited consider it a sign of success rather than
frame is enriched with double injected about this partnership and to be able to failure if, on eventually leaving us, we were
rubber to ensure comfort and stability. work together to support SightCare’s still using the ‘Should’ve gone to Specsavers’
Summit also features a cord with independent practice members with our tagline. It’s a credit to him and his marketing
specific buckles and adjustable side tips. custom service and frames. We believe this and creative teams that this advertising
The sunglasses are available in five colours will help Sightcare members stand out concept has not only stood the test of
and to prescription. from other opticians.” time under his stewardship, but is stronger
than ever today.”
SEEDS OF GROWTH SOWN Richard commented: “I have had the
time of my life working with Specsavers
Japanese company SEED has acquired UK specialty and custom contact lens
and travelling the world to help further
manufacturer, Contact Lens Precision Laboratories (CLPL).
build this tremendous brand. There are
CLPL, whose brands KeraSoft and UltraVision are known across the world, is now a
many talented creative and marketing
wholly owned subsidiary of SEED.
geniuses at the heart of this business who
In a statement, SEED said it planned to develop higher quality contact lenses by
will continue to drive its fame, brand love
utilising CLPL’s advanced design and optical analysis technology. It also intends to
expand its UK and Irish sales, two of the largest disposable contact lens markets in and customer loyalty.”
Europe, in which the company had previously experienced only limited sales results. Following Richard’s departure,
CLPL also plans to utilise SEED’s skills and specific knowledge in the mass production Katherine Whitton has joined Specsavers
of disposable contact lenses in the specialised soft lens industry. as chief marketing officer (CMO) from
A ‘100 days committee’ has been established to move the business collaboration Barclaycard, where she was also CMO. She
forwards, with Diane Angell and John Clamp, joint CEOs of CLPL and UltraVision respectively, said: “I look forward to the challenge of
continuing as joint CEO of CLPL and UltraVision after CLPL becomes a subsidiary of SEED. evolving the brand and marketing model to
Both CEOs will continue to leverage their expertise as manufacturers of custom and support the business’s ambition to
specialty lenses, to expand the joint businesses. SEED will in turn send a number of non- continue to grow and innovate in the
executive directors to CLPL and UltraVision and exchange junior engineers with UltraVision. consumer healthcare sector.”
14 Dispensing Optics MAY 2018SAFE APPROACH TO SERVICE DELIVERY
The Clinical Council for Eye Health Commissioning (CCEHC), which represents the
sector’s leading professions and charity organisations including ABDO, has launched a
new Systems and Assurance Framework for Eye-health (SAFE) to provide a
“sustainable, consistent and coordinated approach to delivering efficient eye health
and sight loss pathways”.
SAFE is aimed at those involved in eye health and sight loss services: clinical
commissioning groups (CCGs) and local authority commissioners, local eye health
networks and providers across health and social care.
It is a series of core constructs and technical tools based on four principles: 1.
System-based approach to planning, commissioning and providing services, to improve
patient flows and patient experience, which is operable at the level of an integrated care Demonstrating the benefits of FLEX
system (ICS) or sustainability and transformation partnerships (STP) level; 2. Assurance in
delivering better outcomes for patients, and reducing duplication and waste of NHS LEADING THE WAY IN
resources; 3. Framework that provides consistency in the approaches taken to improve GOS E-CLAIMS
access, availability and integration of services taking into account the full range and
complexity of care pathways that increasingly involve multiple providers and settings to Optinet, the IT services division of the
deliver services across health and social care; and 4. Eye-health conditions covered are National Eyecare Group (NEG), has
the main adult chronic (glaucoma and age-related macular degeneration) and high- become the first practice management
volume conditions (cataract), but can be applied to any eye condition. system (PMS) provider in the UK to be
Launching the new framework Parul Desai, chair of the Clinical Council, said: “The able to send ALL available General
development of SAFE has been clinically led and clinically driven to ensure safe and Ophthalmic Services (GOS) claims to the
effective services are available to meet individual and population eye health needs. This NHS in Scotland.
cross-sector initiative provides the basis for the organisation and delivery of pathways of This follows the company’s
care that patients can reasonably expect wherever they may live, with processes that accreditation last month for full integration
provide assurance on quality and governance.” to the eOphthalmic Web Service. Users of
the Optinet FLEX PMS are now able to
submit GOS1, GOS3 and GOS4 claims
MALLEN TAKES OFFICE electronically in Scotland via the NHS
Professor Ed Mallen is the new president Scotland e-Ophthalmic Payments System.
of the College of Optometrists. Chris Smith, Optinet national sales
Head of the School of Optometry and manager, said: “The now fully integrated
Vision Science, and professor of physiological solution provides the best user experience
optics at the University of Bradford, Professor for staff as there is no need to switch
Mallen said: “I am delighted to be elected between the PMS and the Ophthalmic Web
as the new president of the College. I am Form. By working alongside the NHS in
proud of our profession, and look forward to Scotland, Optinet has become the first
continuing the great work of our immediate PMS provider to achieve this status. We are
past president, Dr Mary-Ann Sherratt” extremely proud to be able to offer this
(pictured right with Professor Mallen). complete service to our customers.”Advances through the looking glass
With so many new advances in lenses and coatings, we have a bumper Product Spotlight this month.
Read on for insights into some of the latest technological advances in the sector…
RECREATING PERFECT VISION FOR DRIVING AND BEYOND
Putting the spotlight on patients’ visual requirements whilst driving, Shamir
has designed a trio of lens products for driving and everyday wear too.
Shamir Autograph InTouch meets the needs of progressive lens wearers,
optimising viewing comfort with a special focus on comfortable, sharp
vision in the 40-70cm range. For non-progressive lens wearers, Shamir’s
Smart SV lenses provide a fashionable look with the same high performance.
Shamir’s Blue Zero lens material reduces the intake of HEV (high energy
visible) light, more commonly known as blue light, which is increasingly
incorporated in xenon car headlights. It also provides UVA and UVB protection.
Perfect vision on the road
Finally, Shamir’s Glacier Plus UV coating provides improved anti-reflection
properties, increasing visual comfort behind the wheel. It also provides
anti-static benefits, repels dust and offers durability.
“Shamir’s foundations are built upon a fundamental belief in ‘recreating
perfect vision’ for all individuals, regardless of prescription, age and lifestyle,”
said Shamir general manager, Phil Bareham. “Adhering to this, we have
three lens products that are all perfectly matched for not only driving but
also for a perfect everyday lens.”
BREAKTHROUGH IN ANTI-REFLECTION TECHNOLOGY
With its new anti-reflective (AR) Crizal Sapphire UV lens, launched at Optrafair
last month, Essilor has created the first anti-glare coating designed to cut
reflections whatever the light incident angle.
Compared to Crizal Forte UV, the new lens offers up to 25 per cent less
reflection, across the angle between -45° and +45°, front and back – thereby
breaking the traditional compromise between AR performance and UV
protection. It offers ESPF 35 protection and provides relief from invasive light.
Crizal Sapphire UV is the result of patented breakthroughs including a
dual HMAR architecture in which both lens surfaces interact to tackle
reflections that can come from the lens’s front, side and back surface.
Essilor says it has created new ways of designing an AR coating to out-
perform the ISO standard, which was designed to work around only one
frontal range of between -15° and +15°.
An optimised stack on both lens surfaces provides a new form of 360°
multi-angular technology, while a nano layer structure on the back surface
minimises visible light reflections at 360° and preserves a high level of
UV protection.
“We are proud that 25 years dedicated to Crizal innovation has led to
this point – an AR lens with the purest vision, best clarity, comfort and
aesthetic appeal,” said Essilor commercial director, Randeep Gill. “This
Reducing reflections front, back and side
launch reinforces our commitment to be the independent optician’s best
business partner.”
The new lens will be available from 29 May.
THIRD GENERATION LENS DESIGNED FOR DIGITAL MARKET
Sync III, Hoya’s third generation of enhanced single vision lenses, is
specifically designed to relieve digital eye strain and enhance visual
comfort throughout the day.
Launched on 16 April, Sync III lenses have a distance power for everyday
use and a choice of three ‘boost zones’ at the bottom of the lens, optimised
for the way patients use their eyes. The boost zone has a slightly increased
power to help the eye muscles to relax and focus more easily.
“The digital revolution has dramatically changed the way we see the
In sync for digital device users world, and our eyes are literally taking the strain,” says Olga Prenat,
16 Dispensing Optics MAY 2018LENSES
optometrist and director of the Hoya Faculty. “This is largely due to the fact
that our eyes are simply not made to spend long periods of time looking at
screens or near tasks. Sync III lenses are. What’s more, our studies tell us that
most users of digital devices have not heard of digital eye strain and accept
their symptoms as unavoidable. Therefore, educating patients is crucial.”
“At the same time, we recognise that not all digital users are the same,”
added Maarten Brouwer, Hoya lens expert EMEA. “That’s why we developed
three Sync III power boost options for different user profiles. These provide
accommodative support tailored to the patient’s age, digital device use and
severity of digital eye strain symptoms.”
LIGHT PROTECTION WITH “SUPREME AESTHETICS”
New to the market from German frame and lens giant, Rodenstock, are the
high-tech material PRO410 and the premium coating Solitaire Protect PRO 2.
The PRO410 material protects against potentially harmful, high-energy
blue light and provides 100 per cent UVA and UVB protection. Combined
with the premium coating Solitaire Protect PRO 2, the new material is the
optimum solution for extensive light protection and supreme aesthetics,
according to the manufacturer.
A new finish on Solitaire Protect PRO 2 provides a 60 per cent improved
anti-reflection coating compared to current premium coatings, says Rodenstock.
This results in a higher transmission value, which benefits spectacle wearers
with little ambient light, e.g. at dusk or in the night. In addition, with Solitaire
Protect PRO 2, the eyes are visible through the lenses without any colour
changes thanks to the natural bronze colour of the coating.
A spokesperson said: “With the new solution, PRO410 and Solitaire Protect
PRO 2 from Rodenstock, the optician can position himself as an expert for
light protection and offer customers the perfect combination of the best
light protection and highest aesthetics. The results are higher sales – due to
broad portfolio availability and an uncomplicated surcharge mechanism –
as well as satisfied customers whose eyes only get what they really need.”
Point-of-sale advertising and consulting material is available from
the company. Protection against harmful rays by Rodenstock
PRESCRIPTION PHOTOCHROMICS FOR ATHLETES
Lenstec Optical Group is offering a simple online ordering system for the
Julbo sports prescription collection delivering “the very best” in Trivex lens
protection using NXT combined with photochromic technology.
With the creation of its RX Trem programme, Julbo has “revolutionised
the world of sunglasses” with the first Julbo 100 per cent prescription sunglasses
in single vision and sports progressives. The programme offers sunglass
lenses specifically cut to match the curved shape of frames – available in a
wide choice of prescription lenses in polycarbonate or Trivex NXT material.
Julbo Reactiv are designed for dedicated athletes and high energy
sports addicts for all-terrain and all-weather use. Reactiv technology has
resulted in five lenses adapted to different sports, and available in RX Trem
prescription sunglasses offering “outstanding performance” in all technical
RX Trem programme includes Reactiv technology
criteria: reactivity speed, photochromic range, lens colour, efficiency of the
polarising filter and special coatings to meet specific needs.
Reactiv Trivex photochromic technology immediately adapts lenses to
the prevailing light conditions whatever the weather. Manufactured using
casting technology, they benefit from photochromic treatment throughout
the body of the lens and come with a lifetime warranty.
HIGH CONTRAST, GLARE-FREE PERFORMANCE
New Seiko PolarThin uses a patented manufacturing process to precisely
place the polarising film within the lens during casting, rather than the
traditional method of sandwiching a polarised film between the lens and a
top shell of material.
“This innovative technique ensures that the film placement is always
0.4mm below the front lens surface, unlike other polarised lenses, which
position the film up to 1.2mm from the front surface,” explained Richard
Hollings, Seiko Optical UK commercial manager. “The benefit is clear, Seiko
PolarThin lenses can be surfaced thinner than other polarised lenses Precise placement of the polarising layer
Dispensing Optics MAY 2018 17without the risk of breaking into the polarised film and in addition will be
slightly lighter. They will not delaminate and are suitable for both rimless
and semi-rimless mounts.
“A further advantage of the semi-finished manufacturing process is that
the polarisation axis can be fully controlled to the highest level of accuracy
even on higher base lenses where historically axis control has been an
issue, thus ensuring that the lenses always exceed the requirement of ISO
8980-3 which gives a tolerance of +/- 3˚,” Richard continued.
“Some polarised lens manufacturers use a 2.5mm cut out of lens material
to mark polarised axis orientation thus reducing the usable blank size by 5mm,
however, Seiko PolarThin use a marking the size of a pin head allowing the full
blank diameter to be utilised making the lenses suitable for larger frames.”
Seiko PolarThin lenses are available in 1.6,1.67 lens materials, brown and
grey colours, and a wide range of single vision and progressive lens designs.
Honeycomb mesh just visible on the lens
MAKING VISION EASIER ON THE EYE
By using the patented technology of a natural interlocking honeycomb pattern,
Honeycomb lenses from Jai Kudo filter oblique rays of light to encourage
perpendicular rays of light to pass through the lens and the eye’s focusing
mechanism onto the retina.
According to the company, many patients report that this helps to reduce
glare, distortion and avoids over-working the crystalline lens. As a result,
any inadequacy in the refractive power of the lens or cornea is slightly
compensated for and clarity is improved.
“Using advanced patented technology, the Honeycomb mesh is applied
through a complex coating procedure,” said a spokesperson from Jai Kudo.
“At first glance the lens appears completely clear but on closer inspection,
or when the lens becomes misted, the Honeycomb mesh is just visible.”
Honeycomb lenses protect against UVA and UVB rays up to 400
nanometres. They also offer the benefits of the Hydro+ coating of optimum
clarity, scratch resistance, easy clean, anti-reflective and super-hydrophobic.
The lenses are said to be ideal for use when working in artificial and low
light conditions, when night driving and when reading and writing.
Honeycomb lenses are available in 1.5 CR39, 1.6 and 1.67 in stock
single vision, freeform single vision, wideview freeform progressives and
occupational lenses.
LENS MEASURING MADE SIMPLE AND EASY
The new VX36 automatic lensmeter from Norville offers an intuitive user
interface to enable the user to perform lens measurements simply and easily.
The features and benefits of the VX36 include: a measuring function
and an optical centre marketing function; it displays the pupillary distance
and height measurements; it can measure both uncut single lenses and
glazed spectacles, as well as contact lenses; and it provides automatic
Norville’s new VX36 auto lensmeter detection of multifocal lenses. It also includes a wide tilting angle colour
LCD display, a simple and intuitive graphical user interface and a printer.
60% absorption
For low-light daytime situations
The most versatile ANSWER TO POLARISED LENSES CRITICISMS
ite grey polarized Rx sunlenses
68% absorption
twilight
Described as “the lightest and darkest polarised photochromic lens in the
world”, Younger Optics developed NuPolar Infinite Grey to answer two
72% absorption
shade
criticisms of polarised lenses, which are that they are either ‘too dark’ or
‘not dark enough’.
75% absorption
“In order to overcome these objections and broaden the prescription
polarised lens market, Younger bonded a proprietary photochromic layer to
cloudy
the NuPolar polarising film,” explained Julian Wiles of Younger Optics
80% absorption
partly cloudy Europe. “The patent for this encapsulated manufacturing process is held by
Younger Optics and is exclusive to NuPolar.”
85% absorption
partly sunny
NuPolar Infinite Grey is activated by UV light and is 35 per cent light
transmission factor (LTF) in its lightest state and darkens to nine per cent LTF
88% absorption
direct sun in the darkest phase. The 76mm blank is available in 1.5 or polycarbonate and
91% absorption
eight base for wrap designs. The prescription range is -8/+6.00D, and the lens
maximum protection from intense sunlight
is said to be ideal for prescription sunwear, daylight driving lenses or sports
enthusiasts. It is available as a single vision lens or as digital progressive
States and phases of NuPolar Infinite Grey designs from all privately-owned prescription labs in the UK and Ireland.
18 Dispensing Optics MAY 2018LENSES
COMBATING HEADLIGHT DAZZLE
With the intensity and brightness of the latest advances in car headlight
technology making headlines, Zeiss is keen to point out the benefits of its
DriveSafe lenses, which tackle poor visibility in low light conditions, glare
from oncoming cars, and difficulty refocusing when the eyes switch between
the road, dashboard and mirrors.
A recent RAC Opinion Panel survey of over 2,000 motorists found that
65 per cent of motorists were regularly dazzled by oncoming headlights,
even though they were dipped. Zeiss DuraVision DriveSafe coating partially
reflects the offending wavelengths and reduces perceived glare.
Peter Robertson, marketing and communications director at Carl Zeiss
Vision, said: “The recent survey from the RAC is a fantastic opportunity for
Glaringly obvious solution?
practitioners to highlight the benefits of Zeiss DriveSafe Lenses to their
patients. Zeiss provides a suite of materials to effectively aid partners with
the demonstration of these benefits, including: videos and images to
display in-store, a VR App as well as patient leaflets. All these and more are
easily available to download from the Zeiss portal or request through your
Zeiss account manager.”
Zeiss DriveSafe lenses are available in both enhanced single vision and
progressive lenses.
SIGNATURE COLOURS EXPANDED TO VARIFOCALS
Later this month, Essilor will launch the Transitions Signature Style Colours
collection in its Varilux E and X lens series.
The Style Colours collection is comprised of four lens colours –
Amethyst, Sapphire, Emerald and Amber. Like all Transitions lenses, the
collection seamlessly adapts from clear to dark when exposed to UV light.
Designed to bring the brand to a younger audience, the Style Colours
collection introduces a contemporary element to purchasing prescription
eyewear; colours can be selected to either match or complement the Transitions Signature in Amethyst
chosen frame in line with each patient’s individual style.
With the availability of the Style Colours collection in Varilux E and X
Series, the collection will now be accessible to both varifocal wearers and
single vision patients.
BRILLIANTLY PROVIDING THE BEST OF BOTH WORLDS
Celebrate the advance of summer with new MauiBrilliant, described by the
company as “a revolutionary, proprietary lens material combining the best
of both worlds”.
Using a proprietary lens material, the new lens offers optics nearly as
clear as glass (and almost double the clarity of traditional polycarbonate
lenses), while still offering Maui Jim’s acclaimed PolarizedPlus2 technology.
That means they also eliminate glare, manage 95 per cent of high-energy
visible light, and block 100 per cent of harmful UV while boosting colour.
MauiBrilliant is also nearly one-third the weight of standard glass,
combining ultra-high levels of impact and scratch resistance. In fact, the
company claims that “MauiBrilliant is the lightest, highest-clarity
prescription-ready lens available anywhere”.
Lightest and highest clarity: new MauiBrilliant
POWERFUL TOOLSET FOR CONSUMER SATISFACTION
Exhibited for the first time at Vision Expo East in New York in March, the
Eyoto eMap system from Aston EyeTech is a new, advanced lens inspection
technology solution.
The eMAP system incorporates highly accurate power mapping and lens
surface inspection, as well as full refractive index and coating checks. It can
spot a lens defect through every stage in production and incorporates data
collection, storage and cloud portal access, says the company. This
“drastically reduces the amount of breakage and remakes, and significantly
improves the end user’s product acceptance and customer satisfaction”.
Designed for both laboratories and in-practice, the retail version of the
technology is binocular, measuring both lenses in a pair of spectacles
simultaneously.
Next month’s Product Spotlight is on practice management
software solutions. Latest in lens inspection technology
Dispensing Optics MAY 2018 19CET
COMPETENCIES COVERED
Dispensing opticians: Communication, Standards of Practice , Low Vision
Optometrists: Communication, Standards of Practice
Certification, registration
and low vision: the role of
the dispensing optician
By Rasmeet Chadha MSc BSc (Hons) MCOptom Prof Cert Glaucoma
I
n August 2017, the Department for Ophthalmologist. They include patient Severely sight impaired
Health launched a new Certificate details, diagnosis, vision, field of vision and Group 1: Offer to certify as SSI: people who
of Vision Impairment (CVI) form for whether the patient is to be certified Sight have visual acuity worse than 3/60 Snellen
use in England. This article aims to Impaired or Severely Sight Impaired. As a (or equivalent);
provide an update on the process of change from the previous form, there is Group 2: Offer to certify as SSI: people
certification and registration and outline now a separate list of diagnoses for patients who are 3/60 Snellen or better
the role that the dispensing optician can under the age of 18. (or equivalent) but worse than 6/60 Snellen
play in supporting patients with sight loss. Parts 3 and 4 are to be completed by the (or equivalent) who also have contraction
This article does not cover the dispensing patient/parent/guardian and/or the eye clinic of their visual field;
of low vision aids; whilst this falls within liaison officer (ECLO). These parts include Group 3: Offer to certify as SSI: people who
the core competency framework for additional useful information for the local are 6/60 Snellen or better (or equivalent)
dispensing opticians it requires an article council, such as whether the patient lives who have a clinically significant contracted
in its own right. alone and whether they have any additional field of vision which is functionally impairing
needs such as diagnosed dementia, hearing the person, e.g. significant reduction of
CVI FORM EXPLAINED loss or any other physical disability. It also inferior field or bi-temporal hemianopia.
The Certificate of Vision Impairment (CVI) includes a section for patient consent, the
formally certifies someone as visually patients preferred method of communication Sight impaired
impaired. It also acts as a means of referring and a section on patient ethnicity. Group 1: Offer to certify as SI: people who
the patient for social care input and acts as are 3/60 to 6/60 Snellen (or equivalent)
a way of recording meaningful data on VISION CRITERIA FOR CERTIFICATION with full field;
vision impairment in England. There are The guidance document that accompanies Group 2: Offer to certify as SI: people
separate certification forms for Scotland, the CVI form specifies the vision criteria for between 6/60 and 6/24 Snellen (or
Northern Ireland and for Wales. The new certifying a patient as being sight impaired equivalent) with moderate contraction of
CVI form is available to download from: (SI) or severely sight impaired (SSI). The the field, e.g. superior or patchy loss, media
https://www.gov.uk/government/publica guidance makes it clear that these criteria opacities or aphakia;
tions/guidance-published-on-registering- are for guidance only and the final decision Group 3: Offer to certify as SI: people who
a-vision-impairment-as-a-disability lies with the consultant ophthalmologist. are 6/18 Snellen (or equivalent) or even
The form comprises of four parts. Parts The criteria (for the better-seeing eye), better if they have a marked field defect,
1 and 2 must be completed by a Consultant taken from the guidance, are as follows. e.g. homonymous hemianopia.
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 September 2018 issue of Dispensing Optics. The closing date is 14 August 2018. C-58836
NB: the closing date for C-57301 is now 15 May and the answers will be published in the June issue.
20 Dispensing Optics MAY 2018The dispensing optician may be the
professional in the practice who has the
most amount of time with the patient to
explore their wider visual concerns. The
structured environment of the routine eye
examination may not naturally lend itself
to this conversation.
Dispensing opticians may regularly come
into contact with patients registered SI or
SSI as the supply of spectacles and contact
lenses to these patients must be carried out
by or under the supervision of an optometrist,
dispensing optician or doctor4.
Eye exam attendance
When a patient with sight loss attends the
practice, it is essential to establish when
Figure 1. The use of a specialised their last eye examination took place. All
magnifier may not be intuitive patients with sight loss must be given the
opportunity to have the best optical
DIFFERENCE BETWEEN CERTIFICATION The low vision leaflet that may be correction to maximise their visual acuity. It
AND REGISTRATION available in your practice, or through your has been said that between eight and 10
The Care Act 20141 requires each local local optical committee, can be given to per cent of new patients referred for low
authority in England to establish and patients with sight loss who would benefit vision consultations simply require an
maintain a register of people who are SI or from contact with social services. It updated spectacle correction5.
SSI. Once the CVI form is complete, a copy contains a self-referral form that that the In addition, if the patient is no longer
is sent to the social services department in patient can tear off and send to their local under the care of an ophthalmologist, a
the county that the patient resides. Copies social services department. There are no VA regular eye examination with an
of the CVI are also sent to the patient (in an criteria for self-referral. optometrist is essential as it can ensure
accessible format), their GP and to the Royal Social services have a duty to advise that there has been no unexpected
College of Ophthalmologists/Moorfields Eye patients on the range of services available to deterioration of a known eye condition or it
Hospital for statistical purposes. them and to undertake an assessment of can diagnose any new eye conditions which
With the patient’s consent, their details need. An assessment of need may mean that may be amenable to treatment. If your
are then added to the local authority your patient can be supplied with daily living patient is registered SI or SSI, they are
register of SI/SSI. The process of adding aids/specialist equipment to help them entitled to an NHS eye examination.
their name to this register is the process of manage everyday life despite their sight loss,
registration. It can therefore be seen that or they may be entitled to training such as Existing low vision aids
the process of certification and the process mobility training or long cane training. When having a conversation within the
of registration are two different entities. practice, if you establish that the patient
ROLE OF THE DISPENSING OPTICIAN has some optical low vision aids it would be
BENEFITS OF REGISTRATION The dispensing optician has an invaluable prudent to ensure that they are in working
The Royal National Institute of Blind role in supporting patients with sight loss. order and that the patient knows and
People’s (RNIB) website2 has a useful This role extends from core competency to remembers how to change the bulbs/
document on the benefits of registration. extended roles where the dispensing batteries. If in the context of the conversation
This can be printed out and given to the optician can specialise further in low vision it becomes apparent that the optical aid is no
patient if they are considering registration, aid provision. In either capacity, the longer suitable for purpose then the patient
or if they are already registered but unsure dispensing optician has a key role in a can be referred back to the low vision
of the benefits. This document outlines the multidisciplinary low vision service. (Please practitioner for further advice and review.
key benefits and concessions available to note: this section of the article does not
those registered SI or SSI, and describes cover extended roles or qualifications for the Spectacles and aid handling
welfare benefits. dispensing optician.) If the patient has bought the optical aid
The General Optical Council website3 lists with them you can take the opportunity to
ROLE OF SOCIAL SERVICES core competencies for dispensing opticians. It ensure that they are wearing the correct
Certification or registration are not a has an entire unit of competence relating to spectacles for use with the optical aid, as
prerequisite for obtaining support from the management of patients with low vision. the magnification obtained and clarity of
social services. Anyone with sight It also has a section on low vision within the the image can vary dramatically depending
impairment can request contact from their Optical Appliances competency. on whether the correct spectacles are worn.
local social services department. The This article will now concentrate on You can also spend time ensuring that the
process of certification and registration, competency 6.4, The ability to advise, refer optical aid is being handled and used
however, means that the patient will and provide aftercare to low vision patients, correctly and optimally. Patients cannot be
automatically be contacted by their local and on the role of the dispensing optician expected to use specialised aids correctly
social services department. in a multidisciplinary low vision service. without some tuition (Figure 1).
Dispensing Optics MAY 2018 21You can also read
