DO July 2012_1 26/06/2012 09:05 Page 1
dispensingoptics
Dispensing Optics PO Box 233, Crowborough TN6 9BD Telephone: 01892 667626 Fax: 01892 667626 Email: [email protected] July 2012 Website: www.abdo.org.uk DO July 2012_1 26/06/2012 09:05 Page 2 DO July 2012_1 26/06/2012 09:05 Page 3
3 dispensingoptics CONTENTS
July 2012
3 Cover point 4 Continuing Education and Training Being legal with contact lenses - Cover point is it so hard? by Keith Cavaye
10 ABDO Conference and Exhibition Mixing it up in Shakespeare Country by Elaine Grisdale
14 Patient and practice management From idea to product by Antonia Chitty
16 ABDO President’s Day Day of updates and debate Ever increasing activity the case for the profession at local As I write this we already well into level. 24 Newsbrief June; it is almost impossible to believe just how quickly the year is going by. Date for your diary 25 The President’s diary Probably this has something to do with This is the time of year when large by Jennifer Brower the ever increasing level of activity numbers of members, particularly that is happening this year. Everything those with young children, are on 31 Optician Index from the consultation process on the countdown to their annual summer April 2012 summary proposed new Articles of Association holiday. If you are fortunate enough to 31 ADONZ news to the growth in activity at local level, be going away may I wish you a very Getting to know the ADONZ team particularly concerning greater happy and restful holiday. However, engagement with LOCs and the whether you are going away or not I 34 Disjointed jottings from advent of the new world of do hope that as many of you as an office desk . . . commissioning. The fact that more possible will have put Saturday 29 and Sustaining growth in a tough and more ABDO members are getting Sunday 30 September in your diary. In economy involved and making their voices recent years we have had some by Paul Surridge heard is both heartening and splendid conferences and I am sure reassuring. We will do all we can to this year will at least reach, if not 35 Frequently asked questions support individual members putting exceed, the levels we have come to by Kim Devlin expect. Elaine Grisdale writes in some detail on page 10 about this year’s 36 BCLA news Sunshine and CET at the ICC programme, our new initiatives and the splendid location for the annual 38 CET answers dinner. If you cannot come to Contact lens complications everything I do urge you to make every effort to spend at least a day 39 Diary of Events with us. The exhibition alone will be worth the journey.
Tony Garrett n
ABDO works in partnership with: Front cover: Duck and Cover available from Norville Eyewear ABDO also activity works in Frame model number DC006 conjunction with: The Worshipful Company of Spectacle Makers DO July 2012_V2_1 27/06/2012 14:30 Page 4
4 dispensingoptics July 2012
Being legal with contact lenses - is it so hard?
by Keith Cavaye FBDO (Hons) CL FBCLA
Competencies covered: Professional conduct, contact lens practice Target groups: Contact lens specialists, dispensing opticians, optometrists
Recently, there have been an of protecting the public, guide the advice and guidance offered is very increasing number of enquiries to the legislation via the Opticians Act that likely to be referred to in any ABDO membership department about we must all abide by. Some investigation undertaken by the GOC. legal issues concerning contact lenses, regulations within this are clear cut – their fitting and supply. In fact, it is but the Act does not dictate the detail So, who can fit contact lenses in the encouraging that members are of how practitioners must work on a UK? Registered optometrists, medical concerned enough to make these day-to-day basis to keep this level of practitioners and contact lens enquiries in an attempt to do the job ‘legality’. This detail is delegated to opticians1. Any contact lens optician properly. The purpose of this article is both the Association of British must also be on the specialty list of the to address the legal and professional Dispensing Opticians (ABDO) and the GOC and have the relevant CET uncertainties that are raised by both College of Optometrists (CoO) to points and insurance. Failure to do this non-fitting dispensing opticians (DOs), clarify for their respective members. is likely to lead to a fitness to practice contact lens opticians (CLOs) and Because the Act treats DOs and procedure, so don’t risk it. Optometry optometrists in everyday practice. optometrists in a very similar manner in students and trainee CLOs may also fit However it should be pointed out, that the contact lens arena, the two under direct supervision and ‘in in a few instances, the guidance can professional bodies work closely training’. This means that a trainee be ‘grey’ rather than ‘black and together to keep their advice very CLO must be on a course or intending white’, so some of the legislation and similar to each other, often choosing to sit the Association’s examinations – professional conduct advice may be to use exactly the same words and students may not practice under open to different interpretations. terminology in their written guidance. supervision for an indefinite period2. In essence, they are saying the same So, who does make the rules? The thing, although on occasions, one What must we have before we can General Optical Council (GOC) is the body may offer more advice on a proceed to fit? An In date, written, starting point. They, under their banner given topic. Although not law, the signed spectacle prescription, not
This article has been approved for 1 CL CET point by the GOC. It is open to all FBDO members, including associate member optometrists. Insert your answers to the six multiple choice questions (MCQs) online at www.abdo.org.uk, or on the answer sheet inserted in this issue and return by 9 August 2012 to ABDO CET, 5 Kingsford Business Centre, Layer Road, Kingsford, Colchester CO2 0HT OR fax to 01206 734156. If you complete online, 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 our September 2012 issue. C-19079 DO July 2012_1 26/06/2012 09:05 Page 5
Continuing Education and Training
The Contact Lens (Specification) Rules 1989 state that a contact lens specification must include the following particulars: 1. The name and address of the individual; 2. If the individual has not attained the age of sixteen on the day the specification is issued, his or her date of birth; 3. The name and registration number of the person signing the specification; 4. The practice address of the person signing the specification; 5. The name of the practice on whose premises the fitting was done; 6. The date the fitting was completed; 7. Sufficient details of any lens fitted to enable a person who fits or supplies a contact lens to replicate the lens 8. The date the specification expires; and 9. Such information of a clinical nature as the person fitting the lens considers to be necessary in the particular case.
Remote contact lens supply Table 1
more than two years old3. This is optometrist or CLO should do this7. patient that only wears her monthly absolutely clear - so never proceed to lenses about three times a week or fit or re-fit without it! It’s very normal to A question which seems to be less. Surely it would be fine to stretch delegate the ‘teach’ appointment to cropping up more frequently recently the renewal period of these lenses to an optical advisor – that’s ok surely? relates the maximum intervals allowed six weeks or so? Well yes it is, but it should be between aftercare appointments. considered to be part of the fitting Advice from both professional bodies The CoO deals with this specifically process, so should be supervised. That states: stating: means that you (or someone CL ‘It is appropriate to reinforce to existing ‘Unless there are exceptional qualified) should be on the premises to wearers the various aspects of contact circumstances, optometrists should not intervene if necessary, particularly if a lens wear that may have become less recommend a wearing schedule that lens gets stuck in an eye, not away obvious over time’. This could be is contrary to the manufacturers’ collecting the kids from school. interpreted as contact lens patients labelling instructions, which are based may quickly become non-compliant! on the terms of the products licence’11. Do I have to give the contact lens It goes on to say: Contact lens opticians are specification to the patient? Yes, of ‘Good practice would suggest that it is recommended to follow the same course, it’s a legal obligation4! The in patients' best interests for follow up guidance, however tempting it might specification must be given on care to be at least every twelve be to give in to a patient’s request. ‘completion of the fitting’ and this months’8,9 So in general, a maximum should be LESS than three months after time between aftercare appointments Now, to perhaps the commonest area starting the fit5 - not at three months appears to be annually. It seems of questioning received – internet which is commonly quoted. A longer sensible however to accept a supply! This seems to raise more time is acceptable in complex cases, common sense approach to a very temperatures than any other contact such as keratoconus, but the patient casual wearer, wearing only a few lens topic, but is perfectly legal and should be pre-warned at the times a year, being allowed a longer proper when done correctly. When beginning of the fitting. span between appointments. contact lens supply is remote, ie, internet or mail order, it comes under If more that one practitioner took part This is more fully explored by ABDO in the rules of General Direction as laid in the process, the specification must the following terms: out by the GOC. In this case, the be given by the last practitioner to see ‘The exact frequency at which ‘seller’ must be under the General the patient. The actual content of the patients should attend for contact lens Direction of a registered medical specification is listed in Table 16. check-ups will depend upon factors practitioner, optometrist or dispensing Commonly, several of the nine such as the patient’s clinical status, optician to retain the legal status of elements are missed out - take care! history, type of lens and modality of supply12. For anyone who needs access to a wear. As a general rule, because of complete specification document, this the increased risk of complications, To fulfil the order, the supplier must can be found in Appendix B2 in the patients wearing lenses on an have: Association’s Advice and Guidelines extended wear basis should have 1. the original specification; or section of the website. Should a more frequent contact lens check-ups 2. a copy of the original specification patient require a duplicate or copy than those wearing lenses on a daily which he verifies with the person specification, having lost the original, wear basis.’10 This very much makes who provided it; or new advice has just been written sense, but exact frequencies are not 3. an order from the purchaser, regarding who is able to do this. Could quoted. submitted in writing or electronically, it be the optical advisor, manager, or which contains the particulars of the dispensing optician? No! Only an Occasionally, we come across a specification of the person who
Continued overleaf DO July 2012_1 26/06/2012 09:05 Page 6
6 dispensingoptics July 2012
PATIENT DOCUMENT ACTION Fitting/refitting contact lenses Prospective wearer Prescription less than two years Commence fit if appropriate old or stated re-examination time
Prospective wearer Prescription over two years old Only commence fit after eye examination or past stated re-examination time
Contact lens wearer Prescription less than two years old Commence re- fit or stated re-examination time
Contact lens wearer Prescription over two years old or Only commence fit after eye examination past stated re-examination time
Supplying contact lenses Contact lens wearer Contact lens specification is in date Supply contact lens/es
Contact lens wearer Contact lens specification is out of date No supply to old specification but CLO may refit if eye examination in date
Table 2
intends to wear the contact lens, by stating: Finally, some clarification on what and the seller verifies those ‘There is no confidentiality issue in amendments a CLO can make to a particulars with the person who confirming by receipt of an contact lens power. provided the specification13. unambiguous yes that the details in a ‘Contact lens opticians are reminded complete specification as provided to that contact lenses should always be When a DO (or other) is the person the optometrist/contact lens optician dispensed to a current spectacle offering that General Direction, the by a supplier are correct. However, if prescription. Once the initial fittings are public should be protected by both the specification is incorrect in any completed, any changes of rules in the Opticians Act and advice way, the supplier would need to prescription should be confirmed with from ABDO. In detail, ABDO records: confirm patient consent’17. the referrer or by an eye ‘the optician (giving the General examination’20. If that is not clear, Direction) has a duty to ensure that The situation regarding supply of it means that CLOs do not have written protocols and procedures are contact lenses in relation to eye the authority to alter contact lens in place to protect patient health and examination dates also causes powers at an aftercare if they safety, that the person conducting the confusion. Legally, we may supply suspect an actual prescription change supply is appropriately trained and contact lenses purely with an in-date – they must refer for an eye themselves able to ensure that the contact lens specification18, however, examination. lenses meet the specification and patients should still receive a full eye make appropriate arrangements for examination at appropriate intervals. Hopefully, Table 2 will also simplify the patient to receive aftercare. An But this is ‘Best Practice’ rather than actions required under differing audit trail must be in place’14 . An law. circumstances that you may be faced additional restriction is that the patient with21. must be sixteen years or over15 and not The two professional bodies differ for appear to be registered blind or once on the actual advice offered to There is support for you all from the partially sighted16. members. ABDO records in capitals: Association, but much of it is readily ‘A CLO SHOULD NOT CONTINUE TO available from the ABDO website, so From all of this, you may now realise SUPPLY CONTACT LENSES UNLESS THIS why not give it a re-visit? that the compliant supplier is required EYE EXAMINATION HAS TAKEN PLACE. IF http://www.abdo.org.uk/adviceandg to contact the original fitter if they do NECESSARY, ONLY A LIMITED SUPPLY uidelines.php not have the original specification. So MAY BE GIVEN TO ALLOW TIME FOR should you speak to them when they THE NEW EXAMINATION TO TAKE Full details of the Opticians Act can be telephone you? The author would PLACE’19. Of course, you mayl not be found via the GOC’s website at recommend ‘yes’ as it is in the aware of the eye examination date http://www.optical.org/en/about_us/l patient’s best interest, but only verify with many patients and again this is egislation/opticians_act.cfm the detail given to you with a simple best practice advice, not the law. ‘yes’ or ‘no’ without offering additional The College of Optometrists takes a References information. To do this without lighter approach advising: 1. Opticians Act 1989 4.25.1A confirmed patient consent may be ‘An optometrist should advise the 2. Conditions of Admission contentious under the Data Protection patient to have an eye examination if requirements ABDO, Cert. in CL Act. ABDO advice clarifies the position appropriate’ Practice
Continued overleaf DO July 2012_1 26/06/2012 09:05 Page 7 DO July 2012_V2_1 27/06/2012 14:30 Page 8
8 dispensingoptics July 2012
3. Opticians Act 1989 4.25.1A(a+b) 19. ABDO Advice and Guidelines 3.6.2 4. Opticians Act 1989 4.25.1A(5)a 20. ABDO Advice and Guidelines 3.6.3 5. ABDO Advice and Guidelines 3.5.5 21. ABDO Advice and Guidelines 3.1.2 6. ABDO Advice and Guidelines 3.10.2 Keith Cavaye FBDO (Hons) CL FBCLA is 7. ABDO Advice and Guidelines 3.7.1 currently working as an independent 8. ABDO Advice and Guidelines 3.7.7 locum contact lens optician and 9. Code of Ethics & Guidance for consultant. For nine years he was a Professional Conduct CoO G5.04 sessional lecturer at Anglia Ruskin 10. ABDO Advice and Guidelines 3.3 University. His previous positions 11. Code of Ethics & Guidance for include Professional Services Manager Professional Conduct CoO G2.12c Indigolighthouse Group, Contact Lens 12. Opticians Act 1989 4.27.(3)(d) Product Manager Dollond & Aitchison 13. Opticians Act 1989 4.27.(3)(a) & Contact Lens Services Manager 14. ABDO Advice and Guidelines Boots Opticians. He is also a British Keith Cavaye 3.12.3 Contact Lens Association council 15. Opticians Act 1989 4.27.(2)(c) member, ABDO Board member and include ABDO contact lens practical 16. Opticians Act 1989 4.27.(3)(e) past GOC council member, still examiner, member of the contact lens 17. ABDO Advice and Guidelines 3.7.6 serving on the GOC investigation committee and chairman of the ABDO 18. Opticians Act 1989 4.27.(1)(a) committee. Other optical interests CET committee. n
Multiple choice questions (MCQs): Being legal with contact lenses - is it so hard?
1. Which body guides the legislation for contact lens fitting 1989, what piece of information is NOT required to be via the Opticians Act (1989)? recorded on the record of specification given to the patient? a. The Association of British Dispensing Opticians a. The patient’s name and address b. The General Optical Council b. The date that the fitting was completed c. The Association of Optometrists c. The date and name and address of the practitioner d. The College of Optometrists who carried out the last eye examination d. The name and registration number of the person signing 2. Which of the following may not fit contact lenses in the the specification UK without supervision? a. A registered dispensing optician 5. What advice do both ABDO and College of Optometrists b. A registered optometrist offer with regard to the maximum interval between c. A medical practitioner aftercare appointments? d. A contact lens optician on the contact lens specialty list a. The interval should be no more than two years b. The interval should be no more than twelve months 3. It is a legal obligation to give a copy of the contact lens c. The interval should be no more than six months specification to the patient. At what point in the fitting d. The interval should be no more than three months process should this be given? a. The first time the patient leaves the practice wearing the 6. Under what circumstances should the lenses optometrist/contact lens optician ask for confirmation of b. On completion of the fitting three months after starting patient consent from a compliant online supplier? the fit a. In every case c. On completion of the fitting less than three months after b. An optometrist/contact lens optician should not give starting the fit any information to an online supplier d. At some point during the first year of wear c. If they can say “yes” to a completely detailed set of specifications 4. According to the Contact Lens (Specification) Rules of d. If the specification is incorrect in any way
The deadline for posted or faxed response is 9 August 2012 to the address on page 4. The module code is C-19079 Online completion - www.abdo.org.uk - after member log-in go to ‘CET online’ After the closing date, the answers can be viewed on the 'CET Online' page of www.abdo.org.uk. To download, print or save your results letter, go to 'View your CET record'. If you would prefer to receive a posted results letter, contact the CET Office 01206 734155 or email [email protected] Occasionally, printing errors are spotted after the journal has gone to print. Notifications can be viewed at www.abdo.org.uk on the CET Online page DO July 2012_1 26/06/2012 09:05 Page 9 DO July 2012_V2_1 27/06/2012 14:30 Page 10
10 dispensingoptics July 2012
Diversification is the name of the game at this year’s ABDO Conference and Exhibition, writes Elaine Grisdale Mixing it up in Shakespeare Country
t seems like an age since we had bathe in the history and beauty of where you will be able to catch up I an annual conference. In reality it Stratfod-upon-avon. It will provide a with a large number of industry means that we have had more time lovely backdrop for our event. partners showcasing frames, lenses, to put together a weekend which we technology and instruments. Please are sure you will find enjoyable, Stratfod-upon-Avon itself is an ideally come along to support the many interesting and stimulating. This year’s situated central location with good companies who continue to support conference offers an eclectic mix of road and rail links. For those people our Association both with their time the latest in cutting edge fashion and who need to fly to the location, commitments and financially. We technology, a mouth-watering Birmingham International Airport is only have tried to keep the cost to cocktail of workshops and lectures 30 minutes away. members as low as possible by and the chance to mingle and choosing a central location. We have socialise in fantastic surroundings. It’s For those of you who play golf, the also made great efforts to keep the a weekend that you shouldn’t miss. weekend kicks off with a golf day at cost of attending the conference in the Stratford on Avon Golf Club. line with the last conference, which Our home for the weekend will be the Golfers will be playing for the Frank was a great success in Bristol. As in beautifully renovated Holiday Inn in Clipson Memorial Cup and Barry previous years, those members who Stratford-upon-Avon. The hotel is Duncan will be defending his title. This just want to attend the exhibition can modern, airy and has an enviable is an annual event and brings do so free of charge. waterfront location. As well as the together optical professionals, their excellent conference facilities it boasts partners and industry friends. This Expanded CET offering a new health club and pool. There is year’s event is kindly sponsored by 2012 is the final year in a three-year ample parking for guests on site so no Shamir, Marchon and Transitions and CET cycle. For this reason we have worrying about carrying luggage from is a relaxing and fun way to start the expanded the scope of the CET on a multi-storey outside of the hotel weekend. The competition is followed offer and have a mixture of lectures, confines. Everything is conveniently by a dinner and a good-humoured additional learning and workshops. close. Within five minutes’ walk are overview of the day’s proceedings. There is really something for everyone. taverns, wineries, restaurants, shops, Saturday kicks off with two streams of parks and all the historical landmarks Our flagship event opens on Saturday lectures. In stream one, the lectures associated with Shakespeare Country. 29 September with registration at 1pm are delivered by ABDO’s director of Tourists come from all over the world to and the opening of the exhibition professional examinations and are DO July 2012_V2_1 27/06/2012 14:30 Page 11
ABDO Conference and Exhibition 2012
Shakespeare’s birthplace in Henley Street The River Avon Anne Hathaway’s cottage
aimed at students in their final year Association (which we’re hoping these challenging times is a great with a guide to what lies ahead in you’ll all vote for to help us be on the idea. To complement this, and the final qualifying exams. There is right side of the law). The other vote is inspired by our theatrical also a lecture looking at the for the proposed name change and surroundings, Paul Surridge who is the Pre-Qualificiation Portfolio and a 75 per cent of the vote has to be in CEO of the Sight Care Group, will be supervision, which will be of interest to favour before this can be done. showing you, ‘How to move from those of you thinking about taking on mediocrity to centre stage’ using the a trainee, those of you who are More clinical topics will be discussed people and social networking supervising at the moment and those in Sunday’s programme. Well known technologies you have at your of you who are being supervised. for his involvement with Optometry disposal to ensure successful growth. Scotland and the College of As we try and expand the scope of Optometrists, Frank Munro will be Have you ever wondered what more practice and opportunities for our explaining how DOs can become you could do with your professional members, we have taken the involved in developing a skills? Are you getting a bit fed up conscious decision to highlight more lifestyle/health vision practice. Also and feel as though you are in a rut? clinical subjects at our conference. hot-footing it from Scotland just to be The ABDO Conference is here to help. Sally Bates will be delivering the first of with us after her daughter’s wedding, Diversification is the buzzword at this these subjects with the thought Anita Morrison-Fokken from Aston year’s event. We have a trio of provoking topic, ‘Do spectacles University will help us understand why inspiring ABDO members who will be cause facial basal cell carcinoma?’. we should be more aware of and sharing their real-life stories with you With the advent of local particularly concerned about and offering an insight into how they commissioning, the time has never slipping, tripping and falling in our are developing their businesses and been better for dispensing opticians ever increasing elderly patient developing their skills in different to step forward and become population. Glasses (or the lack of environments. Jo Holmes from Devon, involved in local optical politics. We them) can be the root cause of such Ros Kirk from Reading and Alan have the chance to shape the future episodes, which in the most serious Parkhurst from Doncaster will be of the profession and must ensure our cases can lead to permanent enthusing about their out-of-practice voices are heard en masse. Mike disability. ABDO board member professional activities at the Cody, who is a LOCSU board and popular Dispensing Optics conference. member, and Barry Duncan, who has contributor, Angela McNamee, will special responsibilities for relations lead us through an update of when They broke the mould when they with devolved governments and with we should and shouldn’t be referring. made Stuart Jones. He is a successful LOCSU, will be co-presenting an practice owner, eyewear designer, overview of optics in 2012, the scope DOs in arms professional racing driver and Radio for dispensing opticians and looking We want you to leave Stratfod-upon- Manchester contributor. The rich and at what happens after PCTs go. This Avon feeling empowered with the famous come from all four corners of will be a must for those who have arms to become more successful in the world to see him. He has built his been tempted to get involved but practice. To this end we have two successful practice in Manchester haven’t had enough knowledge or excellent speakers in the form of based around bespoke eyewear and confidence to step forward. Julian Wiles and Paul Surridge who will an individualised styling concept. He be there to motivate and inspire you will be attending to share with you the This political flavour leads us nicely to make a success of your business. secrets of his success. As a support to into the ABDO AGM where we will be Julian will be encouraging you to Stuart’s exposé we have one of our taking two important votes. One is for ‘Make everything you can out of conference favourites, Duncan the validation of the new Articles of everything you’ve got’, which in Counter, to recap how and why we
Continured overleaf DO July 2012_V2_1 27/06/2012 14:30 Page 12
12 dispensingoptics July 2012
should be taking facial measurements UK, but it doesn’t. There are just not we are revamping them for the 2012 and will be introducing us to the up-to- enough of the people (orthoptists) conference. Examiners and specialists date terminology linked to frame and who are supposed to do the screening in their fields will be on hand to double facial measurements. to carry it out. It is very area up your CET points tally, answer your dependent – what the tabloids would questions in small groups and help We haven’t forgotten product and the call ‘a postcode lottery’. you learn new and perfect old important part it plays in dispensing. techniques. The choice we make for our patients is Sight tests are free for all children critical to the quality of vision they under 16 and there are plenty of New for this year, and limited to 18 receive. We are very happy to optometrists in the UK to carry out sight places (so book early when you pick welcome two experienced presenters tests on children. Remarkably only 22 up your registration pack) is ‘The and lens experts who are joining this per cent of under-16s have ever had a introduction to refraction’ workshop. year’s conference programme. We sight test. Some children are missing Through the support of Topcon we are first delighted to welcome Paul out on opportunities to fulfil their have set up a six-point taster of what Walden who has been at Norville man talents because they can’t see you can expect on the new refraction and boy and is now its marketing properly and no-one has picked it up. course, which aims to take you from director. He will be looking at the A child who has always had blurred understanding to execution. advent of new technologies and vision won’t necessarily be able to Participants will gain an overview of taking a practical view of what we complain of blurred vision as he the retinoscopy, subjective refraction can and can’t do today compared considers this to be normal. and binocular balance modules. The with 10 years ago. I’m sure a lot of you Dispensing opticians could and should three, one hour sessions are worth two will be surprised by what he has to say. play a vital role in vision screening CET points each. Following Paul we have long-time children. Michael Gilsenan does just conference favourite and friend, Andy that in Northern Ireland and he will be Some lectures will not be CET Hepworth from Essilor. Andy will be on hand to meet delegates and share accredited due to the commercial presenting the most recent thoughts his experiences. He will be happy to nature of the content, while others will on protecting our eyes from the sun’s talk to individuals and will have the allow you to gain two and not one spectrum. equipment he uses on hand, for point through the ABDO additional discussion purposes. ABDO will be learning scheme. If you attend Focus on children working with Michael in the future to lectures marked with the ‘AL’ logo, A lot of parents were screened at develop refresher courses and training you will be able to log into a special school and are therefore under the to help members who would like to site following the conference to read assumption that eye screening still become involved. more on the subject and answer a happens, and someone will tell them if further six questions to gain the and when their child needs to see an Also available on the children’s stand additional point. optical professional. In fact, vision to talk to members will be ABDO vice screening is supposed to happen at president Peter Black who has been Dinner, dancing, motors birth and at four to five years old in the heavily involved with the Careers in Last but not least I have to mention Optics initiative, which takes our world the gala dinner. The dinner is all about into secondary schools and creates greater links between the DO and letting your hair down and having fun local community. Jo Holmes and with friends and like-minded people. Michael Heap will also be present to It’s a chance dress up, be wined and talk about their unique roles and dined and to dance the night away or approaches talking to primary school just sit and enjoy the live children and giving tips on how to entertainment. This year we are keep the under seven to 11s leaving the confines of the hotel and engaged. For the conference we are taking a short coach ride to the dinner hoping to produce materials, which venue, which is the Heritage Motor delegates can adapt for speaking in Museum in Gaydon. Here we will be schools. able to get up close and personal to the interesting and mouth-watering Practical workshops exhibits while nursing a pre-dinner For those of you who want to get a bit drink. During the course of the evening more involved we are once again we will be recognising fellow offering a series of practical workshop professionals who have stood out for sessions to help hone your skills in their dedication and hard work. The different departments. The ‘Frame gala dinner has once again been Holy Trinity Church, Stratford-upon-Avon measurement and low vision’ kindly sponsored by Transitions. We workshops ran in Bristol and were a hope to see as many members there great success. By popular demand, as possible. n DO July 2012_1 26/06/2012 09:06 Page 13 DO July 2012_1 26/06/2012 09:06 Page 14
14 dispensingoptics July 2012
Following up last month’s article, Antonia Chitty explains how to ensure that your idea or invention will lead to a marketable product
From idea to product
f you have an idea for an invention lot without giving anything away. Ask confidentiality agreements so you can Iall ready to go, Cally Robson your clients, or in small face-to face discuss your ideas. suggests caution: “Don't rush in. groups or relevant forums on the web, Computer aided drawings (CAD) where your target market is likely to “Clubs like this help you tap into the won’t help sell your idea to anyone, hang out.” network of all the services that contrary to claims made by some surround inventions,” continues services advertising on the web, and On top of this, Robson advises that Kramer. “For example, you could get they often aren’t technical enough to you should check out the potential recommendations for factories that be useful towards a manufacturing profitability of your product. “Get a can help with prototypes. On the prototype.” Cally continues: “Do as ball park figure on manufacturing other hand, you’ll also learn about much prototyping of your design costs of similar items at different how to avoid unscrupulous invention yourself first – fabbing sites like production runs, say 500 and 5,000. brokers who charge for worthless Ponoko.com or Shapeways.com can Online supplier sites like Alibaba.com reports. A lot of these clubs are linked be useful.” If you need to create a can be really useful. Multiply the unit to universities and enterprise prototype, Kane Kramer advises: cost by six to eight to get estimates of agencies, so if you have a great new “Depending on its complexity, you the retail price you’d need to sell at to idea there is the ability to find a may find a large company that will make enough money to cover friendly way in to the support you join in, providing the patent margins for retailers, distributors and need. It means important inventions application is in place, to assist with your costs. If no-one seems likely to won’t get missed.” Cally Robson adds: your prototype. Or you might invest buy at those prices, it’s unlikely you’ll “Tap into experience. There is no set £5,000 or £10,000 yourself to create a have a profitable product concept.” process in designing and prototype. You may need more than commercialising a new product and it one prototype to move towards your A great idea can be fraught with expensive marketable product. Sometimes you The next steps will vary depending on mistakes. Other product innovators may need to make prototypes in you and your expertise. Kane Kramer are often too busy to pass on order to be certain what you need to says: “One inventor might already be everything they’ve learned, so make patent. If you need external assistance in business, be able to get the use of online groups, and free you can sign a non-disclosure product manufactured and go to resources like the British Library’s agreement [see last month’s article] market. Or you might have a great Business and IP Centre [http://www.bl. with that prototype maker.” idea but know nothing about running uk/bipc] every step of the way.” a business, and not be keen to start Alongside creating your prototype manufacturing. If this applies to you, Former optometrist Antonia Chitty now you should also carry out market look at the British Inventors Society, a writes on business topics. Her latest research. This will tell you if your idea kind of ‘self help club’ which is free to book is Blogging: The Essential Guide, can turn into something that people join. There are inventors clubs all over and she has also written A guide to will pay for. You need to do this the country. If you can get to a club, Promoting Your Business without exposing your ideas. Cally you’ll find a mix of people, from and Marketing: The Essential Guide Robson advises: “Ask people about doctors to engineers to artists, but which will help you if you need the problem they have that your everyone has an affinity as an effective ways to promote your solution is addressing. You will learn a inventor. You’ll be able to sort out practice. n DO July 2012_1 26/06/2012 09:06 Page 15
Patient and practice management
Alastair Carrie Frames designed to fit 18 months developing lenses Case study: How a pilot got his idea off the runway instruments, but also enough to cut out glare. We added on a number of coatings to take our lenses beyond the norm. The frames are Alastair Carrie is a pilot and managing director on to a new designer, Anthony Harrison designed to fit very snugly to cope with of new sunglasses company, Bigatmo. He says: Griffin. He had been an acquaintance of mine aerobatics. People are used to spring joints, “Several years ago, I moved airlines and for years, and is now our director of design. but the titanium sides are springy and need to thought I’d buy myself a nice pair of We developed our first collection, with be opened up to wear. We also got pilots to sunglasses. I headed off to our local optician titanium frames, and registered the designs. give us their views on boxes, cases, cleaning who had a good range, chose a pair with a We wanted our brand to reflect our values, so bags, etc. We showed these to pilots all the good reputation but they didn’t live up to my we did a lot of branding work with a specialist way through, right down to testing out fonts expectations. I took them back and started company who were astoundingly good. They and straplines. We thought about using a looking through all the other brands. There listened to what we were talking about and metal sprung case, but people wanted a zip are lots of brands that have a good product the branding remains good now, with an case that was squashy enough to fit into a but not one did everything I wanted. The aviation-inspired theme running throughout. flight bag, but strong enough to cope with optician, Graham Legg, sat back and said, ‘Why being sat on. don’t you design your own?’ and that was the “The design and manufacture was another start. Since then he has been incredibly issue. We produced 3D CAD designs but the “We’re going to practices now. We’ve had to helpful with all kinds of retail, practice and manufacturers couldn’t use that technology do a lot of work quickly, as initially we technical advice.” and needed 2D images. We initially didn’t thought we’d go via a distributor but their fees understand what the problem was and then would put the sunglasses into another price Alastair used his contacts to find a young when we tried to sort it out there were issues bracket altogether. By going directly we can designer who took him to the first stage of about the component parts – some of which get them in the £169-199 price bracket for developing a vision for the perfect sunglasses we had to get from a different factory. The plano sunglasses. We developed the for pilots. He recalls: “Looking back they were manufacturers have a great reputation for prescription programme at the same time. amateurish, but they were a start. A frame production in the Far East, but we just This is where Norville comes into the colleague’s stepfather turned out to run an weren’t aware of their limitations. Lack of equation. We wanted a very secure fixing in optical company, which supplies products to understanding, knowledge, equipment – we the frame. Very few companies have the 11 out of the 13 European optical chains. He educated them, they educated us, but this equipment to edge as we wanted, but Norville was kind enough to introduce us and we had a added around 18 months to the development had the right equipment to produce freeform number of talks on the phone before meeting process and even now they claim that prescriptions and edge them to complete the at Mido, where we spent around 20 hours although the design is visually uncomplicated prescription product as the replica of the going through my business plans. This gave me our frames are the most complicated ones plano product. more credibility when I met companies I they produce. needed to deal with. At Mido I looked at five of “Recently we were at the biggest aviation the top lens companies, frame manufacturers “We spent 18 months developing the lenses. I expo in Europe, and just as many people were and accessories companies to start the process asked colleagues to test out the lenses and interested in the prescription product as the of finding manufacturers and suppliers. tell me which one they liked to help us plano product. Airline pilots used to retire shortlist. Eventually we narrowed it down to quite early but times have changed. In Europe “After that, we needed to get our designs two types of lenses. We found a good base it is quite usual for pilots to work to 65 and so drawn up properly. Our young designer had lens, and tried different filters. We needed there are a lot of presbyopic people flying reached the limits of his ability so we moved light transmission rates adequate to see aeroplanes into their 40s, 50s and 60s, so we can see a growing demand for prescription sunglasses for pilots. Right now we want to What is an inventors club? find practitioners who want to deal with the prescription side in their practice.” Got an invention but lack help and support to get it to market? You’re not alone. Britain is a nation of inventors, and every month men and women are meeting in inventors’ clubs, to Alastair finishes: “Our sunglasses have help stimulate ideas and get businesses off the ground. You’ll find total beginners and obviously been designed for aviation but they experienced inventors, get the chance to network and attend useful presentations. really are excellent for driving and all kinds of To find your local club just type ‘inventors club’ and your area into a search engine. Find out land and water based activities. In fact, many more and get support as an inventor from: of our customers aren’t involved in aviation at • Cally Robson – www.catallyse.com all and buy Bigatmo’s because they are just • She’s Ingenious! – www.shesingenious.org really good sunglasses.” • The British Inventors Society – www.thebis.org n Find out more at www.bigatmo.com n DO July 2012_1 26/06/2012 09:06 Page 16
16 dispensingoptics July 2012
Andy Hepworth, professional relations manager, Board member Ashton Galloway and Ant President Jennifer Brower Essilor Blackman Day of updates and debate
Board member Angela McNamee
New Articles proposals, CET points and peer review were just some of the hot topics discussed at the 14th President’s Consultation Day held in London on 16 May
n her welcoming address ABDO President, Jennifer Brower, urged attendees to I have their say on the proposed changes to the Memorandum and Articles of Association and encouraged members to stimulate debate in their Areas (see later). ABDO general secretary, Tony Garrett, then reported that eyecare and Gaynor Williams from Area 3 (North West) eye health had at last been included in the public health agenda as part of government policy. This would mean new responsibilities for local authorities in monitoring eye health, which would in turn provide the eyecare professions with an opportunity to influence funding decisions through local commissioning bodies. Local Optical Committees (LOCs) would be involved and Tony urged members to become engaged in the process locally.
Tony then mentioned a current Law Act. The President and the general Commission review of regulation and secretary had been holding regular regulatory bodies, the outcome of meetings with the GOC chairman and which would change the ways in chief executive in order to maintain a which regulatory bodies operated and constant awareness within the GOC of could result in the General Optical issues affecting the profession. Council (GOC) having greater flexibility to change its rules without the The general secretary reported on the
Deanne Gray and Jane Burnand welcome constraints of seeking Section 60 Association’s involvement in the everyone to the President’s Day Orders or changes to the Opticians Optical Confederation, noting in DO July 2012_1 26/06/2012 09:06 Page 17
ABDO President’s Day
The gathering at the President’s Consultation Day
particular that a recent increase in they would be distinguished from Better reflection of membership voucher values, at a time of general ABDO-qualified members by being With regard to the change of title, public spending cuts, had only been prohibited from using the affix FBDO. In Tony reported the reasons for the achieved because the optical bodies the immediate future this would allow Board’s conclusion that this would had presented a united front. This joint membership of the Association to be benefit the Association and the approach had also facilitated regular granted to practitioners who qualified profession. Removal of the term discussions with the Minister of Health, through the new Anglia Ruskin ‘dispensing’ from the title would better and the Confederation had taken the University route. reflect the Association’s membership, opportunity to press for the exclusion he said. For example contact lens of the profession from a new The Board believed that practitioners opticians did not call themselves government scheme called ‘Monitor’, should not be penalised because their ‘dispensing opticians’ and did not which would have drastic powers over employers required them to train undertake any dispensing, and a the whole health sector. elsewhere. similar situation applied to low vision practitioners. In addition, 20 per cent Tony noted that the ABDO College The Board had also been concerned of the membership, a percentage intake, which had previously been that if membership was refused to which was likely to increase, capped at 180 entrants per year, had these practitioners, they might comprised non-British practitioners and been increased by the GOC to 240 establish their own association, which clearly the current title was and that this year’s intake had would be divisive for the profession. inappropriate for them. Furthermore, it comprised some 200 students. He felt They would be allowed to upgrade had to be borne in mind that many this indicated a high regard for the their qualification to FBDO, and thus overseas members were from College and the profession, and a be able to take ABDO’s higher countries where ‘dispensing’ did not healthy demand for dispensing qualifications, but until the content of exist and their regulatory authorities opticians. Negotiations with the New the Anglia course was known, it was had no understanding of this term. Zealand Association had culminated not possible to develop an in the enrolment onto the ABDO appropriate upgrading process. The general secretary had expected course of around 60 New Zealand the proposed name change to practitioners who wished to upgrade In response to a query, the general generate a difficult debate, with their qualification to FBDO. secretary confirmed that the Articles strongly held views on both sides. He would be voted on as a single entity, had therefore been surprised at how Clarification on new Articles and with a separate vote for the name few comments had been received name change change. It would be impractical to from members and he urged Areas to Introducing an item on proposed vote on individual changes to the hold meetings to discuss all these changes to ABDO’s Memorandum Articles as they had been completely issues and to explain to the wider and Articles of Association, the rewritten to produce a smaller, more membership the reasons for the President emphasised that these were streamlined version, said Tony, to meet proposed changes. He indicated his a completely separate issue from the the requirements of the Companies willingness, and that of the President proposed name change. The Articles Act 2006 and to allow the Board more and Board members, to attend Area had been redrafted in modern flexibility, whilst continuing to protect meetings to explain the rationale for terminology and streamlined to meet the essential rights of members. If the the changes and hear members’ the provisions of company legislation. AGM approved the new Articles and views. It was not the Association’s One proposed change would enable the name change, a supplementary intention to force these changes upon dispensing opticians who qualified vote would then be taken to change the membership; they could only be through other training institutions to the title of the Articles to match the introduced after full consultation and become ABDO members, although new name. approval.
Continued overleaf DO July 2012_1 26/06/2012 09:06 Page 18
18 dispensingoptics July 2012
Fiona Anderson Area 12 (Scotland) and Board Jo Holmes Area 7 (West Country) Lee Price Area 6 (Wales) member
Tony reiterated that in order to comply publicise the vote in company in- changes, to promote their with the terms of the Companies Act, house journals, although he importance. If local members asked all members would be sent a proxy questioned whether this would be questions that those present felt form for voting on the Articles and the entirely appropriate. There was, unable to answer, they should be put name change. The forms would be however, no reason why individual in touch with the Association so that sent out at the end of July and members should not seek to persuade their concerns and queries could be members could either: their colleagues to vote. addressed. • Do nothing; • Complete the form nominating the Comment was made about the Comments should be submitted to chairman of the AGM (ie, the potential cost to practices of the ABDO by the end of June, when the President) to vote on their behalf with name change in terms of signage and Board will review all responses and or without pre-indication of their stationery, and the costs to ABDO in submit final proposals to the AGM in preference; terms of ABDO-branded merchandise. September, when a vote will be taken. • Complete the form nominating a Tony indicated that the major costs for member attending the AGM to vote the Association were legal fees, Conference on the horizon on their behalf, with or without pre- circulation of proxy voting forms and, In her presentation on the 2012 ABDO indication of their preference; or in due course, the cost of changing conference, Elaine Grisdale, ABDO • Attend the AGM and vote in person stationery. However, this last item was head of professional services, outlined changed every two years anyway, the format and content of the In answer to a query, the general when a new President took office. conference that would take place at secretary confirmed that the There followed a discussion on ‘front of the Holiday Inn in Stratford-upon-Avon proposed Articles should retain the house’ practice materials such as on 29-30 September. She outlined the provision that any member who was nameplates showing the FBDO affix, facilities at the hotel and the social an undischarged bankrupt would not although it was noted that few activities that had been arranged as be allowed to stand for election to the members now purchased ABDO part of the event. These included a Board; this was a requirement of the badges or nameplates. The President gala dinner at the nearby Heritage Companies Act. He would ensure that expressed the hope that if members Motor Museum, which would be this provision was included. approved the name change, they sponsored by Transitions Optical. The would wish to be known by their new conference objectives were Encouraging debate affix. highlighted, as follows: It was confirmed that approval of the • To be accessible to all members in new Articles and the name change It was pointed out that if the name terms of location and cost required a majority of 75 per cent of change was agreed and members • To offer opportunities to enable the votes cast. In view of the were issued with new certificates that members to perform better in practice; importance of encouraging as many showed their new affix from 2012, this this would mean the inclusion of more members as possible to use their vote, would be extremely misleading as an business and practical elements it was suggested that information be indication of the length of members’ • To offer ideas for diversification publicised not only in Dispensing qualification and could be damaging • To provide a networking event, Optics but also in Optician and to patients’ perceptions. The general meeting fellow professionals and Optometry Today. The general secretary acknowledged the bodies, industry partners and students secretary welcomed this suggestion importance of taking this into account • To create a platform for debate of and added that every possible use when the details were finalised. He important issues such as the proposed would be made of electronic urged everyone present, as leaders of name change and career progression communications with members. He the profession, to stimulate debate would consider a suggestion to and, if they agreed with the proposed Pricing would be in line with the
Continued overleaf DO July 2012_1 26/06/2012 09:06 Page 19 DO July 2012_V2_1 27/06/2012 14:31 Page 20
20 dispensingoptics July 2012
Barry Duncan ABDO members' support manager Carole Desai Area 10 (Kent) Ian Anderson Area 11 (London)
previous conference, ie, single that the current economic climate for CET and that some were not delegate package £175; one made it difficult to obtain sponsorship prepared to travel far to CET events. A delegate and one non-delegate at past levels. She urged members to majority of respondents had indicated package £195; two-delegate encourage their suppliers to support a preference for email package £270; exhibition only free of ABDO by exhibiting at the conference communications about events and a charge; Saturday delegate pass £15; and suggested Area initiatives to small number had pressed for crèche Sunday delegate pass £65; and gala stimulate attendance by members. facilities. dinner £85. ABDO head of marketing, Michael Potter, had generated a series Elaine finished by mentioning that the Barry then explained possible changes of advertisements for maximum Area 5 committee was assisting at the to the GOC’s CET requirements, as exposure and had developed other conference and with its planning. The follows: publicity activities. The conference committee had cancelled its • Half of all points per cycle would have guide would again be included in an September meeting in order to to be achieved by attending events, or issue of Optician. concentrate on the conference and participating in interactive CET was offering a £45 subsidy to Area 5 • Contact lens opticians would no Elaine then presented the full members who would have attended longer be required to obtain conference programme, noting that the Area meeting and booked the additional points some lectures were accompanied by conference instead. She wondered • Peer discussion would be a additional web-based material with whether other Areas might feel able to mandatory activity for contact lens an extra CET point, to be available support its members in a similar opticians after the conference; attendance at manner. • E-learning would be an option the lecture would be a prerequisite for • CET would have to be undertaken this additional learning. The Sunday Current and future CET provision in all core competencies programme would incorporate a In a presentation on his recent drop-in advice desk for members activities, Barry Duncan, ABDO It was clear that if these changes were wishing to become more involved in members support manager, reminded introduced for the next cycle, schools. This was an area that the members of the support provided by members’ expectations would Association was keen to promote the Association in terms of CET. This increase and Areas would have to be particularly as the current vision had comprised an average of 390 even more active in providing a screening programme in schools points per cycle, mostly within the cost variety of events and locations. Areas appeared to be inadequate. It was of the membership fee. He outlined were urged to prepare for the new hoped to produce a kit to enable the role of Areas in CET provision and situation by ensuring that they had members to carry out school vision noted that as of January 2012 only 750 proper structures and effective screening and the Sunday to 800 members had attended ABDO communications both within their programme would include sessions events each year. There continued to Areas and with the Association. relevant to this topic. be a lack of funding for CET for Forward planning would be essential dispensing opticians except in and Barry proposed the following: Next Elaine listed the exhibitors who Scotland, a situation that was unlikely • Each Area should offer a minimum had confirmed their attendance, to change in the near future. Barry of 12 points per year (some Areas noting in particular the support of outlined the results of a membership already met this target) Shamir, which was proving to be an survey that he had undertaken earlier • Areas should strongly consider the excellent partner. Conversely Elaine this year. Although only a small workshop concept said she had been disappointed with number of responses had been • Facilitator training for peer discussion the response of some of the previous received, these had demonstrated would be offered to a representative major sponsors but acknowledged that members would prefer not to pay from each Area DO July 2012_1 26/06/2012 09:06 Page 21
ABDO President’s Day
Joanne Abbott Area 4 (East Anglia) Brenda Rennie Area 12 (Scotland) and Richard Morris Area 3 Board member Keith Cavaye (North West)
• Full year meeting plans should be The usual revision day for students had attending the CET day on 17 May. Two released a year in advance. Ideally taken place last year and feedback new members had joined the the programme for 2013 should be had been positive. Thanks were committee, both of whom were ready, at least in outline, by the end of expressed to committee members for students, and thanks were expressed October 2012, with full information their hard work. to all the committee members for their being published in Dispensing Optics hard work. Future plans would await and on the website in January 2013 Area 3: An evening presentation, run the new GOC requirements and • There would be a review of financial jointly with the Cheshire LOC, had would take into account points put assistance from ABDO in recognition of recently taken place and had been forward by the members support the higher financial burden placed well received by the 18 optometrists manager. Area 12 was congratulated upon Areas by the new requirements and 22 dispensing opticians who had on organising the mini-conference • Consideration would be given attended. The next event would take and exhibition in Scotland. centrally to engaging with industry place on 17 October and would be partners an evening visit to the Hoya Lens Area 9: An evening meeting on • Contact had already been made factory at Wrexham. The tour would paediatric eyecare had taken place with hotel chains to try and negotiate provide two CET points, with a further at the end of 2011, providing two CET preferential rates for Area events two points being provided by a visual points and attended by more than 40 recognition test. Longer-standing members. The quality of the speakers Barry stressed the support available committee officers were gradually was a major contributory factor to from the Association staff and stepping down and their roles taken good attendance at all events, as suggested that a steering group of on by enthusiastic younger members. evidenced by the paediatric event Area chairmen be established to and the joint event held in March 2012 discuss the above propositions. Area 4: The last meeting in March had with Areas 8 and 10. The latter had Comment was made that it would be comprised a visit to the Shamir factory, also been attended by the President helpful if the CET events list could with a presentation on occupational and Board members. The Area AGM include more detailed information, for lenses by the company’s product would be held on 21 June, and would example, the title of a lecture did not development manager. Although only include two lectures and offer 2.5 CET necessarily indicate the content. It was a small company, full sponsorship had points. The President would attend the felt that events would have to offer been provided. The next event would AGM to talk about, and hear views more than one CET point if they were take place on 13 June and would on, the proposed Articles and name to attract a good attendance and in hopefully be sponsored by Transitions. change. this context members were reminded A full committee was in place and that visual recognition tests provided included a student member. Area 10: Since the previous President’s two points and could easily be added Consultation Day, a committee had to an evening event. Area 6: A successful meeting had been formed comprising a chairman, been held in March providing seven secretary and events coordinator, and Area reports CET points and had been completely the President had attended the Area 2: A full CET day had been self-funding due to the large number inaugural committee meeting. A joint arranged for October 2012 offering of sponsors. Discussions were meeting had been held with Area 9, eight CET points, including one underway about another meeting in which had been well attended and contact lens point. It was hoped to 2012, and how to encourage more well received. A garden party was attract 50 to 70 members to the event members to join the committee. being organised for the summer, and 11 exhibitors were anticipated, offering six CET points as well as a which would enable the event to be Area 7: The President had attended family fun day. If successful, this could provided free of charge to members. the last meeting and would be become an annual event.
Continued overleaf DO July 2012_V2_1 27/06/2012 14:31 Page 22
22 dispensingoptics July 2012
acknowledged that there could be circumstances where this might not be possible and was considering allowing e-contact in exceptional cases. The
Kevin Gutsell Area 9 (South East) and Board Kate Clarke Area 4 (East Anglia) meeting was reminded that in member Scotland, NHS Education Scotland funded joint events for dispensing Area 11: A CET day had been held in planned to be in contact with all Areas opticians and optometrists. November 2011, and another event in to obtain their plans a year in advance, February 2012, attended by the it was suggested that it would also be Discussion then turned to the question President and attracting around 30 helpful to have an interactive diary on of non-attendance by members who members. It had been sponsored by the website to which Areas could add had booked for an event. Some Areas Silhouette. A CET day had been their meeting dates and check for any provided events free of charge, some arranged for 4 November 2012. clashes. There was also a need to made a charge for the catering, and avoid clashes of topics, especially others charged a refundable deposit Area 12: A successful mini-conference between neighbouring Areas. or took cheque/card details to be and gala dinner had taken place, Comment was made that it would be used for payment of the deposit if the providing five CET points and two useful to know about national events member failed to attend. ABDO head additional points from a subsequent such as the BCLA and Specsavers of membership services, Katie Docker, postal course. Two presentations had conferences, and the NOC. The felt that a simpler method would be been made at the gala dinner: ABDO general secretary reminded the through the use of online booking and life membership to Donald Cameron, meeting that much information was use of smartphones. The President who had been instrumental in setting already published in Dispensing Optics suggested a voucher scheme. The up Optometry Scotland; and an Area but he would give some thought to view was expressed that as members 12 presentation to a longstanding the electronic diary option. would in future have to attend events member for his services to dispensing in order to fulfill their CET requirement, optics in Scotland. A student revision Mention was made of standby the incidence of non-attendance was day had been held in May, which had arrangements in Area 3 to cover the likely to reduce. been well received. Two one-day contingency of non-attendance by a events had been arranged in early speaker. In this context, it was Consideration was given to the October, both funded by NHS suggested that peer discussion, based continuing lack of funding for Education for Scotland. This funding on case studies, was another way of dispensing opticians’ CET and the lack support was much appreciated by providing CET at short notice, as long of parity with optometrists in this members. A further meeting was members of the Area had been regard. Tony Garrett stressed that in planned for November, offering two trained as facilitators. In answer to a the current climate of public spending CET points, and it was hoped to run a query, it was confirmed that peer cuts the government in England would mini-conference again, although the discussion was likely to become a not change its stance, however strong committee was mindful of the need to mandatory CET activity for contact the arguments in favour. The fact avoid any adverse impact on the lens opticians but that any dispensing remained that dispensing opticians ABDO conference. optician could participate as part of had to undertake CET and ABDO their CET programme. The view was provided its members with enough CET CET discussion and debate expressed that whilst peer discussion for this purpose, free of charge Following the Area reports, the was effective in practice-based wherever possible. He pointed out that President mentioned the two visual learning, it might not work so well for as a result of the new public health recognition tests available to Areas, an evening meeting with a larger agenda mentioned earlier in the one on myopia and one on low vision, attendance. On the other hand, meeting, there would be local funding both providing two CET points. She felt larger meetings would just require for training initiatives and it was up to that these were useful in providing more facilitators to run parallel members to ensure that they were extra points at evening meetings. sessions. included. There followed a discussion on coordination of dates between Area The GOC was likely to insist on face-to- The next President’s Consultation Day events. Although Barry Duncan face peer discussion, although it will take place on 14 November. n DO July 2012_1 26/06/2012 09:06 Page 23 DO July 2012_1 26/06/2012 09:06 Page 24
24 dispensingoptics July 2012
Huntly Taylor Taylor to help drive Winter exams registration College growth reminder
Huntly Taylor has been honoured to have been Those planning to sit the supervisor/practice appointed as chairman of appointed chairman of the winter 2012 practical registration application the ABDO College board of ABDO College board of examinations for the form. trustees. trustees. I hope to build on Certificate in Contact Lens the excellent work of my (CL) Practice are reminded Completed registration Mr Taylor, who has been a predecessor, Colin Lee, and that the closing date for application forms relevant trustee of the College since actively work with the registering supervisors and to the winter 2012 sitting 2009, has run his own College staff to further practices for provisional must reach the ABDO independent practice in develop the success story approval is 31 July 2012. offices in Kent by 31 July. Brighton since 1993. He is a that is ABDO College.” Registration documents are past ABDO council member, Candidates wishing to sit available upon request past chairman of ABDO On behalf of ABDO College, the CL practical from the Examinations and Area 9 (South East) and was secretary to the board of examination in winter 2012 Registration Department on a founder director of the trustees, Tony Garrett, said: must have, at the time of 01227 732921/732924 or Eyecare Information Service, “Huntly is an exemplary their examination email examinations@ forerunner to the Eyecare member of the dispensing application and throughout abdo.org.uk n Trust. He is also a member of profession with a total the period up to and the Court of the Worshipful dedication to excellence. including their practical Company of Spectacle He brings a wealth of examination, a supervisor Makers and has just finished experience, business and practical experience a three-year term as acumen and level practice on the current chairman of its society. headedness that will greatly ABDO approved register – contribute to the College’s or have been given Commenting on his new future growth and provisional approval role, Mr Taylor said: “I am achievements.” n following completion of a
registrants will be able to manage New IT system for next CET cycle their CET, complete online retention, update their contact details and read all our news and guidance from the same place.” The General Optical Council (GOC) undertake the approval and quality has appointed Replay Learning in assurance of CET. Over the next 12 months the GOC will collaboration with Sliced Bread to implement a new, transparent data develop a new IT system for the next Samantha Peters, chief executive and sharing scheme to ensure all CET cycle beginning in January 2013. registrar of the GOC, said: “The new providers have access to relevant system will enable registrants to get data collected about registrants’ CET Users will access the CET system the most out of our enhanced CET activities and available CET provision. through the GOC’s website, with scheme by being more interactive, “This will give assurance that no registrants able to view their targets tracking the points they accrue, provider is in a preferred position and and track progress. The GOC will finding the right events to attend and will help all providers to deliver the provide a helpline and email support being kept up to date with variety and availability of CET events service for registrants and an developments. It will also sit within the needed for registrants to meet their independent panel established will ‘MyGOC’ area of our website, so targets,” it stated. n DO July 2012_1 26/06/2012 09:06 Page 25
Newsbrief
Jennifer Brower Eye charities The President’s diary band together
Fight for Sight is joining In my March diary, I drew should be extended to this occupational dispensing, forces with the Childhood attention to some of the especially vulnerable group. which was a novel and Eye Cancer Trust, the vision problems enjoyable way to obtain International Glaucoma experienced by people with At the President’s two CET points. I was also Association, the Macular learning disabilities and the Consultation Day in May we given the opportunity to Disease Society, Nystagmus campaign by SeeAbility to discussed several current update members on current Network, Olivia’s Vision and grant them NHS funded eye issues including the political matters and there RP Fighting Blindness for this examinations. A recent proposed changes to the were some very important year’s Fight for Sight Carrots conference held by the Articles of the Association, points raised with a useful NightWalk on 21 September. Optical Consumer the ABDO Conference in discussion. I am continuing Complaints Service (OCCS) September, the new cycle in my efforts to attend as Fight for Sight will also be highlighted these and other of CET and Area activity. many Area meetings as teaming up with these concerns about the needs Also discussed was the Law possible, and at the time of partner charities to fund of people with learning Commission review of writing I look forward to new research grants in the disabilities and the problems regulatory bodies, which attending Area 4 and 9 areas of childhood eye they have accessing could result in the GOC events soon and Area 2 cancer, glaucoma, macular eyecare services. The being given greater later in the year. disease, nystagmus, uveitis conference was attended flexibility to change its rules. and retinitis pigmentosa. The by optometrists, dispensing This would have implications Olympic fever has finally gripped the small village charity, with the support of opticians and other for the scope of practice of where I practise; we have each partner organisation, professionals involved in dispensing opticians and we cheered the Olympic flame, will jointly fund new Small eyecare, and the consensus will be keeping a watchful the Parish Council has Grant Awards, worth up to was that this was a eye on developments. After decorated our street with £15,000 each. vulnerable group of people lunch, we received reports red, white and blue flowers, whose needs would best be from the Areas and had and my windows are now Michele Acton, chief served by regulating the further discussions on CET resplendent with Union executive of Fight for Sight, and Area attendance. The supply of their spectacles. Jacks, the five Olympic said: “The Fight for Sight notes of the meeting can be Children, partially sighted rings and much sporting Carrots NightWalk is a great found on the ABDO website. and blind people are regalia. We have even had way for people to come protected in this way and a run on sports bands (three together and raise urgently the feeling of those present The day after President’s sold in a week) and there needed funds. Whether was that such protection Day, I attended the Area 7 has been hushed talk of participants choose to CET day and exhibition in bringing in a TV for Olympic support Fight for Sight or the Exeter and congratulations fortnight to watch some of important work of other If you have a job are due to the committee the races. One lucky staff sight loss charities, everyone vacancy in your for organising such an member has managed to taking part will be helping to practice, please interesting and informative obtain tickets for three create a future everyone remember that the day. A wide range of topics different events, and has can see, and it is fantastic Situations Vacant section included the supply of promised to wave from the that so many organisations in the Bulletin Board area artificial eyes, an update on crowd, so on 27 July we will across the charity sector are of the ABDO website RGP contact lenses, be watching the opening coming together to address provides you with a eyecare in an Ethiopian ceremony, waving our flags, sight loss in such an quick and easy facility to town twinned with Exeter and sipping our power innovative way.” advertise completely and a lecture on handmade drinks in support of the frames. There was also an free-of-charge. n athletes. Good luck GB! www.fightforsight.org.uk n interactive quiz on Jennifer Brower DO July 2012_1 26/06/2012 09:06 Page 26
26 dispensingoptics July 2012
Lots of pain, lots of gain Saddle sore Styles FODO ups offering helps raise £3k in Ireland
A mammoth 920-mile cycle 18,912 calories during the The Federation of Ophthalmic and Dispensing Opticians ride from Land’s End to trip, which included 15,231 (FODO) is expanding its activities and service offering in John O’Groats, with stop- metres climbed. the Republic of Ireland to support the growth of the offs at eight regional corporate sector and prepare for the changing nature of opticians, has raised more “There was a huge feeling eyecare in Ireland. than £3,000 for Vision Care of relief in completing the for Homeless People. journey, but also of disbelief FODO has for many years provided insurance cover in the that I had actually Republic of Ireland. Over the past few months at the Elaine Styles, the charity’s managed to achieve such request of members, FODO Ireland has been developing chair, took 10 days off from an ambitious challenge,” its service offering and has already responded to two her work at Moorfields Eye said Elaine. “We had light government consultations, firstly to protect the fees Hospital and at Specs of showers on most days but structure for primary eyecare and suggest improvements Kensington to complete the there were two days of very to benefit patients, and secondly to oppose compulsory trek with 70 hours in the heavy rain. We also had a registration of representative bodies as lobbyists. saddle. Pounding hailstones, couple of showers of very 25mph cross winds, three sharp hail in Scotland – it FODO Ireland chair, Peter McGrath, said: “We are inner tubes and one tyre was very painful. The delighted to have access to the intelligence and support replacement were just some temperature got down to framework offered by FODO Ireland. We look forward to of the challenges along the 3˚C at some points.” To add working with our colleagues in the AOI and IADO to way for Elaine, her husband to the total raised log onto present a united voice for the sector and further improve John and friends. Elaine http://uk.virginmoneygiving. eyecare for patients in Ireland.” Visit calculated that she burned com/ElaineMcKnight n www.fodo.com/ireland n
Council welcomes regulation review findings
The General Optical Council (GOC) nimble legal framework will help us to flexibility to adapt to changes in the has welcomed the Law Commissions’ respond faster and more effectively to sector, and we hope the new review of UK healthcare regulation in a developments in optics, regulation and legislation will do that. But it’s equally recently-published consultation wider healthcare.” important that any changes to current response. arrangements are necessary, The GOC will review its current role in proportionate and do not create The GOC supports the broad approach regulating both students and optical unnecessary costs or disruption for the proposed by the Law Commissions of a businesses, but supports the flexibility sector,” she added. “How optical single, overarching legislative that the Law Commissions’ proposals businesses are regulated also merits framework for healthcare regulators will bring. Samantha explained: “We’re further exploration in the context of the that could make it easier for the GOC, aware that student registration imposes review of our legislation.” and other regulators, to introduce rule some significant costs on students, changes. GOC chief executive and training providers and the GOC, and The GOC intends to commission registrar, Samantha Peters, said: “The we will examine our current system research into the optical business Law Commissions’ proposals have with an open mind. sector and will consult extensively with generally found an appropriate stakeholders before proposing any balance between flexibility and “It’s important that the legislation changes to how optical businesses consistency: a simplified, modern and allows us, and other regulators, the are regulated. n DO July 2012_1 26/06/2012 09:06 Page 27 DO July 2012_1 26/06/2012 09:06 Page 28
28 dispensingoptics July 2012
Lily, Tina, Grace and Peter Company support for charity Peter and Tina Boost from optics’ say ‘I do’ Livery Company
ABDO vice president Peter Black and contact lens The Worshipful Company of providers and diagnostic optician fiancée Tina Arbon tied the knot on Saturday 21 Spectacle Makers has technology specialists are April at Belchamp Walter Church near Sudbury Suffolk donated £8,000 to Vision tremendously supportive but almost exactly seven years after they first met while Care for Homeless People we still have some examining for the Association in Malaysia. to meet the running costs overheads in terms of of the opticians’ practice premises and this wonderful Peter and Tina’s children, Lily (four) and Grace (three) which operates within the cheque goes a long way in were flowergirls. n Crisis centre in meeting those. Our own Whitechapel, East London optical City Livery Company and to facilitate another connecting with a charity day’s clinics each week. which is so close to home is Delegate booking forms and Conference particularly pertinent.” Club forms are available from ABDO Harinder Paul, the Harinder is pictured Membership Services on 01227 733902, optometrist charity founder, receiving the donation from 01227 733912 or 01227 733922. said: “The lens companies, the SMC Master, Professor glazing labs, frame John Marshall. n
More work needed on drivers’ vision
The Optical Confederation (OC) has • The onus will be on the applicant or be provided to drivers, and to the cautiously welcomed clarification of driver to notify the DVLA if a formal eye medical and optometry professions, the new eyesight standards for drivers test reveals Visual Acuity of less than to make clear that a measurement following publication of the Driver and 6/12 and the licence will then be of less than 6/12 is a relevant Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) refused or revoked disability and the driver must notify the report on the consultation on driving • The current distance at which the DVLA. licence standards for vision. number plate test is read will remain unchanged (20m) On behalf of the Confederation, Geoff The DVLA published its report on 30 • Drivers who fail the number plate Roberson said: “Overall the standards May although some changes to test, but meet 6/12 on Snellen testing, for Group 1 drivers seem to have been standards came into force on 1 May. will still fail and no ‘exceptional cases’ tightened slightly rather than relaxed Main changes announced for Group 1 will be allowed for those failing both as the DVLA had initially proposed. (car and motorcycle) drivers are: tests Although we welcome some • Drivers will be required to declare clarification of the new arrangements, when applying for a licence that they The Confederation said it was there are still many issues to be have never been told by an optician disappointed that the outdated resolved.” The Confederation will be or doctor that their vision is below that number plate test had been retained, issuing full guidance to its members on of the minimum required standard that there was still no requirement for all the changes, including the new (6/12, 0.5 decimal) formal vision testing throughout the visual field standard for Group 1 drivers • There will be no requirement for ‘an driving career, and that the reliance and revised visual acuity and vision optician’s certificate’ at the driving test on drivers to self-report relevant correction requirements for Group 2 or on licence application or renewal disabilities remained. Information will (lorry and bus) drivers. n DO July 2012_1 26/06/2012 09:06 Page 29
Newsbrief
Liz Rhodes One Show’s Dr Mark Porter Supporting troops TV doc attends coming home UV lens event
Spurred on by a staff bring them back to More than 100 guests presentation on Crizal UV member with a teenage normality. attended an Essilor party at lenses and E-SPF (Eye Sun son on a tour of duty in Carden Park Hotel in Protection Factor). The Afghanistan, Martyn Kemp Nineteen-year-old Connor Chester recently to event continued into the Opticians (MKO) is Millward, an infantry man celebrate the launch of evening with a champagne boosting the Yorkshire in 3rd Battalion Yorkshire Crizal UV. During the reception, followed by a Regiment’s effort to Regiment which was afternoon, the guests gala dinner and dancing. improve the lives of troops deployed to the Helmand enjoyed a welcome from coming home. province in April, is the son Mike Kirkley, Essilor MD, Essilor’s head of marketing, of Liz Rhodes, who has followed by a presentation Justin Rocyn-Jones, said: MKO, South Yorkshire’s been based at the firm’s on UV and general health “Our guests already largest independent firm City Road practice for from Dr Mark Porter who appreciate the dangers of of opticians, is selling seven years. Martyn Kemp regularly appears on BBC’s UV and are pleased that wristbands for a minimum said: “We are privileged to The One Show. Essilor has a new lens that of £1 at its 10 practices to do our bit for such a can completely protect raise cash for The Yorkshire worthwhile effort to ease Bill Harvey, clinical editor of their patients from the UV Regiment in Afghanistan the distress of military Optician, spoke about UV danger. Information sharing Fund, which supports service in this particularly hazards in relation to ocular at this level continues to be soldiers’ convalescence challenging area of the disease, while Dr Colin a key part of our 2012 and training activities to world.” n Fowler spoke about UV strategy and confirms protection in relation to Essilor’s commitment to Show plans hotting up spectacle lenses. Essilor providing innovative and International’s Alain high quality products that Riveline finished the continue to be ground- More than 60 per cent of floor space has been sold for afternoon with a breaking.” n Optrafair 2013, taking place at the NEC Birmingham from 13-15 April. Alliance on ageing eyes “New opportunities are on offer for 2013 with an enlarged and more exclusive Fashion Quarter, dedicated areas for The Optical Confederation that good vision can play in contact lens and technology businesses, and the chance has joined the Age Action keeping older people active to position a company alongside compatible or even Alliance to promote vision for longer. competing ventures,” said Federation of Manufacturing and eye health amongst Opticians (FMO) chief executive, Malcolm Polley. older people. Jenny Gowen, head of public affairs for the Optical Optical CET provider Replay Learning is working with the The Age Action Alliance is Confederation, said: FMO to create a three-day educational programme. an independent alliance “Throughout this year we are Under the banner, ‘Optrafair Replay Learning Education formed to improve the lives looking at options for joint Theatre’, the programme will embrace international of older people. Building on working with Age Action speakers bringing the latest advances in eyecare to the the success of the recently Alliance partners to improve UK. The purpose-built arena, seating up to 150 delegates, announced eye health eye health and vision for will be a key attraction. Exhibitors will be encouraged to indicator, the Optical older people. National Eye present seminars on finance and taxation, IT, practice Confederation will be Health Week [17-23 management and fashion styling. working with a range of new September] will also provide partners through the an opportunity for individual Visit www.optrafair.co.uk and follow the show’s progress Alliance to improve eye practices and practitioners on Twitter @optrafair2013 n health and promote the role to get involved.” n DO July 2012_1 26/06/2012 09:06 Page 30
30 dispensingoptics July 2012
Ceilidh in full swing Donald Cameron and Peter Black Fiona Anderson, Frank Hamilton and Brenda Rennie Diploma proving a Area news high street hit
Area 2 (North East): Busy start to the summer very long serving contributor The latest qualification from to optics in Scotland – Frank the Worshipful Company of Area 2 has made a busy starters – who will provide an Hamilton. Frank has been on Spectacle Makers (WCSM) start to the summer; first we exhibition area giving us the the GOC register for more is winning favourable welcomed 22 third-year chance to order stock and years than he cares to reviews from high street students to our Student find out about products on remember, and I was opticians. Training Day, we then sent the market. delighted to present Frank our chair Phil Quinby down with a crystal decanter and The Level 2 Diploma in to the ABDO President’s To date we have confirmed the obligatory bottle of Optical Retail Skills, which Consultation Day in London, the following speakers: Barry scotch to fill it, with Brenda was launched last year, is we set up a Facebook page Duncan on Rx problems and Rennie, Area 12 designed for optical and (ABDO Area Two) and have issues; Jennifer Brower on secretary/treasurer and CET dispensing assistants. made great progress on low vision; Phil Gilbert from officer. I think it is fair to say Training and assessment is arranging what will be our Zeiss on tinted lenses; Kim that both Donald and Frank carried out in the practice, fourth full day CET event. Devlin on contact lenses for had no idea they would with learners choosing a Area 2’s annual CET day will DOs; Stuart Graham from both be singled out and combination of units tailored be held on Sunday 28 Luxottica on frame presented with these to their specific requirements. October at the Weetwood production; and a VRICS honours, but that makes it all Hall Hotel, just up the road quiz from ABDO CET on the more special as they are Peter Black, retail from the Village at myopia. The day is open to both are highly deserving. development director at Headingley, Leeds. As members from other Areas. Conlons Opticians, said: always it will be a great Please register your interest Once again a huge thank “We have 20 optical opportunity to network, at [email protected] you goes to our sponsors – advisors working towards catch up with friends, and of to be sent further updates Carl Zeiss Vision, CIBA Vision, the diploma, at all levels of course meet our sponsors – when available. Continental Eyewear, De experience and ability. It is Zeiss, Visualeyes LVA Rigo, Essilor, Hoya, Lens Pro, proving a fantastic tool for Products, William Morris, Report by Janice Fletcher, Nikon, Novartis, Orange new recruits, offering ABDO College just for Area 2 secretary n Eyewear, Viva Eyewear and practice managers a route William Morris Eyewear. On a map for work-based Area 12 (Scotland): Dinner, dancing and honours personal note I would like to training.” say a huge thank you to all I am pleased to report that guests. ABDO bestowed who attended the event Leightons Opticians has also Area 12 had a very Honorary Fellowship on and made it the success it given a warm welcome to successful ‘first’ in May with Donald Cameron, joint was. Also to the ABDO staff the new qualification. the first-ever combined gala programme director NES who ventured north of the Rebecca Sharp, Leightons’ dinner and CET event to be (NHS Education for border, to Barry Duncan, director of business run in Scotland. Some 60 Scotland) Optometry and members support manager, development and HR, said: guests enjoyed dinner and a optometrist and founder and Brenda Rennie our “We’re delighted to be traditional Scottish Ceilidh member of Optometry secretary, CET officer, adopting the Diploma in into the ‘wee small hours’, Scotland. Donald, who has treasurer and ‘magic Optical Retail Skills, which followed by a very full half- worked tirelessly promoting maker’, for all their help and we’re piloting in our day of CET with seven CET the skills of all opticians in support during the Hempstead Valley Store. ” points on offer to the 40 plus Scotland, was presented organising and running of delegates who attended. with his Fellowship by ABDO the event. Visit www.spectaclemakers During the course of the vice president Peter Black. .com, email training@spec evening, Area 12 honoured Report by Fiona Anderson, taclemakers.com or two very distinguished Area 12 also honoured a Area 12 chairman n telephone 0207 236 2932. n DO July 2012_1 26/06/2012 09:06 Page 31
Newsbrief
Rachel Simons Pegy Savage Lynette Hunter Hayley Bendall Getting to know the ADONZ team
ABDO and the Association of Dispensing Opticians of New Zealand experience within the in supporting our ever- (ADONZ) will be working more closely together in the future for the industry and am very changing industry. benefit of members in both countries. Last month we introduced the committed and enthusiastic. ADONZ executive. Now meet the rest of the team . . . I am actively involved Hayley Bendall - locally and nationally and administrator Rachel Simons - executive Canterbury in the South have a passion for I began working one day a committee Island. continuing education for all week for the ADONZ in Hi, or should I say Kia Ora dispensing opticians and November 2004. This has (Maori for hello). I have Peggy Savage – executive assisting students. My gradually expanded as the been working in optics since committee member husband John is very membership and their 2001 for OPSM, which is a Kia Ora and greetings. I’m supportive and now our requirements grew, to now part of Luxottica Retail and I Peggy Savage from New children are all married, I working approximately 30 to became a registered Plymouth – the best city to have the time to support my 35 hours a week. I am the dispensing optician in 2006. live, work and play, where interests and am inspired to sole employee of ADONZ Coaching and developing the beach is a 40 seconds see everyone reach their full and am lucky enough to others is something I am walk and the mountain is 40 potential. have a fantastic job that is passionate about (plus the minutes’ drive. I have come full of variety. I work closely All Blacks and optics). I can from an accounting and Lynette Hunter - executive with the executive be a bit OTT when it comes banking background into committee committee and because to rugby. I have two optics, and have been I started my career in the we are all spread beautiful children, Carl and extremely happy with this optical industry working for throughout New Zealand Kayla, and my husband change of career path. Dollond and Aitchison in most of our conversations Lance who loves the Being employed as a Southampton as a are by email. I’m the first outdoors and puts up with dispensing optician and receptionist in the late 1980s. point of contact for our me when I talk optical geek practice manager in an On moving to New Zealand members, and provide the language. I live in the best independent practice, I I continued my career administrative support for part of the country – have several years’ working for independent the ADONZ committees and practices and gained the Optometrists & experience in all aspects of Dispensing Opticians Board the practice. I completed DO CPD accreditation Optician Index - April 2012 summary the TAFE, NSW Certificate in committee. A large part of Dispensing and became a my job is helping to plan • Practice turnover at 173 Index points is the highest registered dispensing and run our annual value since June 2010 optician in 2002. I am conference, and entering currently working for CPD credits and maintaining • Total sight tests at 113 Index points is the highest value General Optical Wholesalers up to date balances since February 2011 as an account manager through our CPD recording ·• Sample average total dispensing up by 8 per cent travelling around the North system. The ADONZ office is from April 2011 to 98 Index points Island of New Zealand based at our home near • Contact lens new fits are 6 per cent higher than last servicing the independent Hamilton in the Waikato month and solution sales improve too practices and optical region (where the best dairy outlets. I joined the ADONZ cows are from – not sure if The full April 2012 Optician Index report was published in the committee last year as an that’s a claim to fame) with 25 May 2012 issue of Optician executive member and my husband, six-year-old son enjoy working with and a growing family of passionate team of experts chickens. n DO July 2012_1 26/06/2012 09:06 Page 32
32 dispensingoptics July 2012
The Blues Brothers meets fixation So this is what progressive lenses are Hero’s Square in Budapest disparity like Teaching old dogs new tricks
Andrew Kierl reports on the first trip by UK and training in the latest lens opticians. Fiona’s lectures Ireland practitioners to the new Hoya Faculty in technology, refraction and workshops covered the techniques or simply enable psychology of the Budapest participants to brush up on presbyope and the Earlier this year, I was refraction areas equipped their basic knowledge. importance of recognising privileged to join 11 other with high tech visual and lifestyle needs. eyecare practitioners from instrumentation, workshop Theory and practice The final day of lectures and the UK and Ireland on a rooms, a lounge with We arrived in Budapest from workshops covered the three-day visit to the Hoya wireless internet connection our various departure thorny issue of the causes of Faculty in Budapest. The and a reception. It also has airports on Sunday 4 March, non-adaptation to faculty is Hoya’s new facilities for simultaneous meeting up for dinner in the progressive power lenses. education and experience translation. evening. The next morning Once again, these were centre for dispensing we partook of some gentle very hands-on, interactive opticians, optometrists and The faculty designs each sightseeing to get to know sessions and we all gained ophthalmologists who want course with the need of the each other before the as much from listening to to enhance their delegates in mind. Our serious business of learning each other as from the knowledge of Hoya course focused (excuse the started in the afternoon. The information contained in products and how they pun) on the correction of lectures were mostly the excellent presentations. should be prescribed and presbyopia with progressive delivered by European dispensed. The faculty’s power lenses. A previous optometrists and Monday In summary, the UK and philosophy emphasises course for Russian afternoon’s topics included Ireland’s inaugural visit to knowledge and experience ophthalmologists only prescription optimisation the Hoya Faculty can only exchange through direct covered the prescribing of and indoor lenses. On be described as first rate. dialogue with participants cylinders and prisms. The Tuesday, freeform The facilities were excellent; and consists of a seminar flexibility of the programmes technology was discussed the presentations were of a room for up to 60 offered by the faculty at great length not only very high quality, the delegates, practical means that it can offer from a theoretical point of lecturers knowledgeable view but from a practical and helpful and the point of view. For example, workshops provided a good City courses offered we were given several top balance between listening tips on how the refraction, and doing. As always, Qualified DOs and students who have fully completed their correction of fixation Hoya’s hospitality was dispensing qualifications may apply for a place on the Year 1 Contact disparity, the prescribing of second-to-none and we Lens Course at City & Islington College starting this September. lenses, careful fitting and were admirably looked after patient selection can by Latha Kovi and Russell Costing £2,200 excluding exam fees, this course is day release from optimise the performance Bickle. 9am to 6pm for 30 weeks and prepares for the theory papers of the and wearer satisfaction of ABDO Contact Lens (CL) Certificate qualification. Qualified DOs who theses remarkable lenses. Andrew Keirl runs his own have completed the CL Certificate theory papers are eligible to independent practice in apply for a place on the Year 2 CL course, to prepare for the CL Tuesday’s programme also Cornwall. He is ABDO’s Certificate Practical exam. This course runs from 10am to 4pm on contained a familiar face in Principal Examiner for alternate weeks for 15 sessions, also commencing in September 2012. the form of Dr Fiona Fylan, a Professional Conduct in The course fee is £1,450 excluding exam fees psychologist from the UK Ophthalmic Dispensing and who has many years’ a Performance Assessor and To apply for a place, email Tony Harknett [email protected] or experience of teaching Expert Witness for the Ian Forrest [email protected] or phone 020 7520 7452. n optometrists and dispensing General Optical Council. n DO July 2012_1 26/06/2012 09:06 Page 33 DO July 2012_1 26/06/2012 09:06 Page 34
34 dispensingoptics July 2012
Growth is fundamental to a business irrespective of its size and complexity, writes Paul Surridge Sustaining growth in a tough economy Paul Surridge
The UK market for optics is probably and, very importantly, the latest therefore, to have a strategy for both. the most competitive in Europe. consulting room technology as pre- Too few independent practitioners in Consumers have an abundance of requisites for a successful business the UK, consumed by the challenges choice when choosing a practice to model where charging appropriately of running their businesses on a daily visit and, as we know, yesteryear’s for clinical time is the key driver. We basis, devote sufficient time to such loyal patients are today’s surfers. The also believe that practices invest in analysis. Inevitably, business planning two-for-one, 50 per cent off business suitably qualified dispensing opticians and marketing are low on the model has proved successful, and that to ensure that patients receive the agenda. The result is that too many proposition is likely to sustain itself well very best advice about lens practice owners rely on luck rather into the future. However, this price led technology, frame styles, materials than judgement to achieve their approach rarely works for and design. These are all extremely objectives. In the future, this will have independents, and not just in the important in an ever-changing fashion to change if those practices are to world of optics. A time will come when environment where consumers need remain viable. the market for optics will polarise, with advice and demand value for money. one facet of the market moving It’s all about communication; both significantly towards retail, and the Long-term strategies internally among the team in terms of other with a more defined clinical bias. The growth challenges facing delivering on stated objectives and Both will have their followers, but will practitioners in today’s unpredictable standards, and externally to both business models flourish? I economic times are considerable, but consumers in the community about happen to think they will. not insurmountable. Concentrating the differentiated service on offer. The solely on the fundamentals of latter demands an intelligent look at In a tough economy, you can either attracting business today, rather than the best methods of PR and accept that times are tough and long-term strategies that may be promotion, and a strategy that will hope things will get better, or have relevant post-recession is a mistake. deliver both short and long-term strategies that drive the business Both need attention. Identifying the results. Social media is a powerful and forward. No business achieves 100 per strengths, weaknesses, opportunities growing part of the mix. Whatever is cent of its potential all of the time, so and threats of a practice and its deemed appropriate, it requires there’s plenty of room for competitors is a fundamental starting funding. A dedicated budget that improvement. For more than 15 years, point in determining an individual equates to at least five per cent of Sight Care has spent a good deal of practice’s differentiators. Those turnover is not excessive, and it should time encouraging independents to differentiators should determine the be spent. Having a constant presence differentiate their business model from type of consumer a practice should in the community is vital if a business it the price led approach. As an be aiming to attract. to capitalise on its potential. At Sight organisation, we have argued that Care we offer independents a independents need to constantly Logically, growth can only come from complimentary marketing health invest in systems, processes, existing patients and/or by attracting check to see if they are doing the right procedures, staff training, marketing new patients. It makes sense, things. DO July 2012_1 26/06/2012 09:06 Page 35
Disjointed jottings from an office desk . . .
Commitment to change those delegated the responsibility of relationships. A patient regularly in Growth demands a commitment to business development, should touch is less likely to go elsewhere. change, to doing things differently, religiously devote at least one half day Unfortunately, this strategy is rarely and that requires an understanding of a week (not evenings and weekend) adopted in the UK. the basic principles of business to planning and executing activity planning, financials and marketing. plans. It’s a false economy to think The key to overcoming a tough Further, the practice owner/manager differently. economy and the challenge of must find the time to manage the competition is to understand your process and maintain a momentum. It In the past, the growth practices strengths and weaknesses – is the latter demand of finding the needed year on year to remain capitalising on the former and time to manage the process where profitable could be achieved by eliminating the latter. It’s about visibility the project often fails. In optometrist carefully nurturing existing patients; and having a powerful local owned practices this is especially today it’s not that simple. New closely presence. It’s about investing in all challenging as the practitioner often targeted patients are an essential part forms of technology and practice sees the need to spend as much time of the mix as loyalty wanes. Despite aesthetics. It’s about a whole team as possible with patients, rather than the eroding loyalty factor, the need to effort where everyone knows what the allocating dedicated time to working constantly encourage existing patients objectives are, and contribute to their on the business rather than just in the to return remains essential. In the US, attainment. It’s about being totally business. it’s reported that practitioners aim to customer centric but not in a see patients once or twice in between philanthropic way. Profitability fuels the Dispensing opticians, on the other eye examinations, taking advantage engine of business – ignore that at hand, are often more in tune with the of opportunities to offer new products your peril. commercial needs of a business, and and services closely matched to the respond more readily to the work that needs of the individual. Importantly, Paul Surridge is chief executive of the needs to be done. Practice owners, or it’s an opportunity for building closer Sight Care Group. n
Frequently asked questions
Answered by Kim Devlin FBDO (Hons) CL
Who may insert a contact lens?
Q. A member telephoned with an unusual query. As a non CL DO, corneal integrity on the slit lamp and calculating the best power could he insert a contact lens into a patient’s eye to enable them for the task of frame selection to name just two of them, could to see themselves while choosing new spectacle frames? He be deemed to be ‘fitting’ the contact lens. explained that he was a contact lens wearer so more than able to handle contact lens safely. Is there a safe, legal way to give patients the undoubted advantage of good vision whilst selecting a frame? I think that A. There is a very fine line here and great care must be taken not any such act must be done under the supervision of the to be guilty of professional misconduct whilst genuinely trying to optometrist who conducted the eye examination, and who help a patient select the best frame during a dispensing. would have knowledge of the cornea; or a CLO who is on the premises, able to check to their own satisfaction that the Firstly, let’s look at the law. What constitutes a ‘contact lens patient is not at any risk and calculate the appropriate lens fitting’? The law strictly governs who may and may not fit power to aid dispensing. Not to do this may also put the DO contact lenses. In brief only a registered optometrist, a registered concerned at risk. It may well be that the experience is so good CLO or a medical practitioner may fit contact lenses. The law as to encourage the patient to continue with a full contact lens obviously makes allowances for students, both pre-reg fitting. optometrists and trainee CLOs, to fit contact lenses under the supervision of a suitably qualified person. If we, as a profession, wish to keep the moral high ground that all contact lenses are fitted by properly qualified practitioners As the DO in question would argue, inserting a contact lens for we must demonstrate that in every circumstance the wellbeing the sole purpose of aiding a patient’s frame choice cannot of the patient is our first concern. constitute a fitting. I would agree except that I feel there should be some safeguards before any contact lens is inserted into an Kim Devlin is chair of ABDO's Advice and Guidelines Working eye. The very safeguards that I believe are necessary, checking Group n DO July 2012_1 26/06/2012 09:06 Page 36
36 dispensingoptics July 2012
The sun shone on the ICC Dr Catharine Chisholm takes over as ‘Competing for Excellence’ was this year’s theme Birmingham BCLA president
hydrogels. The lens offers high water content and delivers more oxygen than a traditional hydrogel – all Sunshine and without the need for silicone – while maintaining the comfort of conventional hydrogels. The bio- inspired material helps the lenses to retain moisture and optical shape even after hours of wear and allows CET at the ICC oxygen to flow freely through the lens. Biotrue ONEday contain 78 per cent water, the same water content as the cornea, while delivering virtually the representatives from around 50 same oxygen level as the open eye, Just over 1,200 visitors from companies. On the opening day of said Bausch + Lomb. The outer surface the exhibition alone (Friday 25 May) of the lens is designed to mimic the 45 countries attended the 695 people were scanned into the hall lipid layer of tear film, which prevents to view the stands and learn about dehydration of the lens. “It works like recent 36th British Contact the latest innovations at the popular your eyes for comfortable vision Lens Association (BCLA) Exhibitors’ Pavilion. throughout the day,” said Joe Barr, Bausch + Lomb vice president, global Clinical Conference and Around half of this year’s delegates clinical and medical affairs and were from the UK (484) with the largest professional services vision care. Exhibition at the ICC overseas contingents coming from the USA (110) – followed by France (54), CooperVision also had a new launch Birmingham Sweden (37), Italy (36), Denmark (32) with Proclear 1 day multifocal – a high- and Germany (28). The conference performing hydrogel utilising PC As the city of canals basked in some also saw its first ever delegates from technology, a material that attracts glorious summer sunshine, contact lens Costa Rica and Swaziland. and maintains moisture and the only professionals of all disciplines, lens material approved by the US academics, industry leaders and Product innovations Food and Drug Administration for the students flocked to Birmingham for an A host of new products were unveiled claim: “May improve comfort for those action-packed four days of CET, over the three-day exhibition, who experience dryness or mild workshops, business meetings, including Biotrue ONEday from Bausch discomfort during lens wear”. Not to networking and socialising. The + Lomb – heralded as the next be outdone, Sauflon came to Association welcomed 1,060 generation daily disposable lens Birmingham with yet another ‘world registered delegates this year, in material. It is made from HyperGel, an first’ with Clariti Multifocal 1day – the addition to 143 visitors who came just innovative material that is said to first silicone hydrogel contact lens for for the three-day exhibition, which was combine the best features of presbyopia. Sauflon’s Clariti 1day supported by 167 industry conventional hydrogels and silicone family is now available in sphere, toric
Delegates relaxing in the evening Sue Cockayne of Sauflon extols the CET workshops drew the crowds Wild West themed gala dinner was benefits of new Clariti Multifocal 1day popular DO July 2012_V2_1 27/06/2012 14:31 Page 37
BCLA news
2012 BCLA Medal recipient, GB Women’s Volleyball players A thriving three-day exhibition Trying to beat ‘the Stig’ on the Professor Alan Tomlinson support sports vision session CooperVision stand
and multifocal designs providing a lens alongside Gavin Rebello, Martin Lloyd the last – with a truly memorable design to suit the majority of patient and Dr Michel Guillon who are sports conference of 1,060 registered requirements. A stimulating session, vision optometrists working with a delegates enjoying an exciting, entitled ‘How my product is better’, number of elite athletes in the run up innovative programme, a major saw representatives from Bausch + to this month’s Games. milestone with our journal Contact Lomb, Sauflon, CooperVision, CIBA Lens and Anterior Eye gaining an Vision and Johnson & Johnson, The BCLA conference is renowned for Impact Factor thanks to the hard work presenting the merits of their latest its fantastic social programme and this of its editor, Dr Shehzad Naroo, and lenses for presbyopes – a potentially year was no exception. At Johnson & some very insightful evening CET huge market for contact lens Johnson Vision Care’s Patron’s Party meetings and workshops. practitioners. and dinner on the Friday evening, guests enjoyed a talk by inspirational “In the year ahead I hope to lead the Sports and socialising speaker Miles Hinton-Barber. Around BCLA in taking our online offering to a For the first time ever, the conference 800 guests attended this year’s Wild, new level and developing innovative included a session on contact lenses Wild, West themed Gala Dinner, with business and educational resources for and sports in a nod to the event’s cowboys, cowgirls and Indians practitioners just starting out in contact Olympics inspired theme ‘Competing whooping it up at the New Bingley Hall lenses, as well as those wanting to for excellence’. The highlight of the in the city centre. Announced at the build further their contact lens track was when members of the GB Gala Dinner were 19 new BCLA business. I would like to see the BCLA Women’s Volleyball team turned up to Fellowships, a mark of esteem in the become the focal point for the whole participate in a special ‘Vision in Elite field of contact lenses, which allows contact lens community,” Catharine Sport’ session. Prior to this leading UK recipients to use the letters FBCLA after added: “On behalf of the BCLA sports vision specialists, Geraint their names. Past BCLA president, Council, I would like to thank Griffiths, Gavin Rebello, Kristine Dalton William Thomas, who stepped down Immediate past president Shelly Bansal and Dr Michel Guillon discussed the from the BCLA council at the 2012 for his commitment and passion over contact lens assessment and vision AGM upon his retirement from the the last two years. He has done an correction of athletes. The athletes industry, was awarded an Honorary amazing job and has left some very then helped to show the relationship Life Membership. BCLA president, big shoes to fill.” between athletes’ coaching and Shelly Bansal, then handed over the conditioning staff and the input of chain of office to Dr Catharine Andy Yorke, managing director of sports vision practitioners. Chisholm, lecturer at Bradford School Topcon UK and past BCLA council of Optometry and Vision Science. member (Technical Representative), is The audience was treated to a live BCLA president elect. The 37th BCLA demonstration of the players’ Focus going forward Clinical Conference and Exhibition will volleyball skills and an insight into what Speaking after the conference, take place at Manchester Central, UK, it takes to be picked to represent your Catharine said: “I am delighted to from 6-9 June 2013. For more country in the Games. Other speakers become President of the BCLA and it information about BCLA events and included Simon Fanning, a sports will be an honour to serve the how to join the Association, visit science graduate with a particular Association and its members. I hope www.bcla.org.uk, email events@ interest in volleyball coaching, the coming year will be as fruitful as bcla.org.uk or call 0207 580 6661. n
What participants said afterwards “This year’s conference exceeded all my expectations by really acting as “It’s always a bit of a gamble trying a new venue but the ICC the bridge between world class academic expertise, and how to apply Birmingham was a great success. I didn’t hear any negative comments this evidence based optometry into practice. The best example of this from any delegates or other exhibitors – in fact just the opposite – was one of my ‘eurek”a moments at the conference. Perversely this was everyone was raving about it.” Gill Narramore, group operations not in the clarity of near vision with multifocal contact lenses, but in the manager, UltraVision diagnosis of my own blepharitis, the assessment of the degree of anterior eye UV changes, and the initiation of treatment within the “Many thanks to the BCLA and conference organising staff for a Exhibitors’ Pavilion.” Martin Golden, optometrist, Carlisle wonderful few days. I’d like to thank in particular Shelly Bansal, Professor James Wolffsohn and Amir Khan for the extreme courtesy “We had our best BCLA ever this year. The location was brilliant – so that was dedicated to me during my Fellowship application process. It much better than the NEC. We enjoyed being able to get some fresh air is fantastic to now be a Fellow of the BCLA.” 2012 BCLA Fellowship and not being locked up in one building all the time – and the food was recipient, Marco Tovaglia of Italy outstanding.” Philip and Roxanne Saunders DO July 2012_1 26/06/2012 09:06 Page 38
38 dispensingoptics July 2012
CET answers: Contact lens complications
1. Giant papillary conjunctivitis (GPC) is most common in: trabecular meshwork with inflammatory cells a. Soft contact lens wearers b. Rigid gas permeable contact lens wearers 8. The most common type of bacterial keratitis is caused c. Hard contact lens wearers by . . . d. None of the above a. Staphylococcus aureus b. Pseudomonas aeruginosa a is the correct answer. Giant papillary conjunctivitis is most c. Streptococcus d. None of the above commonly seen in soft contact lens wearers b is the correct answer. 70% of bacterial keratitis cases in soft contact lens wearers are caused by pseudomonas 2. Management of GPC does NOT include: aeruginosa a rod shaped bacteria a. Change to preservative-free regimen b. Administering artificial tears 9. Which is the most appropriate management of CLPU? c. Application of H1-antagonist a. Contact patient triage at local casualty unit to arrange d. Application of H2-antagonist an ophthalmological consult urgently d is the correct answer. Anti-histamines that block the H2- b. This condition will self-resolve. See patient routinely or receptor are not used in the management of giant sooner if symptoms develop papillary conjunctivitis. These receptors are actually present c. Patient to cease contact lens wear at present. Frequent in the stomach and H2-antagonists help reduce the monitoring arranged to ensure that condition is production of stomach acid! resolving. See patient sooner if symptoms develop d. None of the above 3. A bulls-eye appearance as the condition resolves is c is the correct answer. CLPU is normally self-resolving on characteristic of . . . cessation of contact lens wear. The patient should be seen a. Contact lens peripheral ulcer (CLPU) regularly to ensure that the condition is resolving and to rule b. Contact lens acute red eye (CLARE) out any infective cause. The contact lens wearer should be c. Microbial keratitis advised that if their symptoms worsen to contact the d. None of the above practice as soon as possible for advice or if this is not a is the correct answer. This clinical sign is highly indicative possible to attend casualty and to take their contact of contact lens peripheral ulcer lenses, contact lens case and solution with them. They should also be advised not to drive there and if possible to 4. What percentage of CLARE cases reoccur? attend accompanied as their pupils may be dilated a. 10.0% b. 33.3% c. 50.0% d. 100.0% b is the correct answer. A third of CLARE cases reoccur 10.A risk factor for fungal keratitis is . . . a. Previous corneal surgery b. Contact lens wear 5. Which symptom is characteristic of bacterial keratitis? c. Chronic steroid use d. All of the above a. Foreign body sensation which resolves on contact lens d is the correct answer. Previous corneal surgery, contact removal lens wear and chronic steroid use have all been b. Foreign body sensation which worsens on contact lens associated with a slightly increased risk of fungal keratitis removal c. Pain which improves as condition progresses 11.Radial perineural infiltrates are characteristic of which d. Metamorphopsia condition? b is the correct answer. A symptom highly suggestive of a. Fungal keratitis bacterial keratitis is pain worsening after contact lens b. Contact lens peripheral ulcer removal rather than improving c. Acanthamobeal keratitis d. Bacterial keratitis 6. Treatment for microbial keratitis may include . . . c is the correct answer. Infiltrates following the course of the a. Fortified antibiotics b. Cycloplegic drops corneal nerves are indicative of acanthamoebal keratitis c. Cold compresses d. All of the above d is the correct answer. Fortified antibiotics are prescribed 12.An infiltrate with indistinct raised borders and a dry to alleviate bacterial infection. Cycloplegic drops reduce appearance is characteristic of which condition? the risk of synechiae development and improve patient a. Acanthamoebal keratitis comfort as they stop ciliary spasm. Cold compresses b. Contact lens peripheral ulcer improve patient comfort c. Contact lens acute red eye d. Filamentous fungal keratitis 7. Complications associated with microbial keratitis d is the correct answer. A common characteristic sign of include: fungal keratitis caused by filamentous fungi is a branched a. Primary cataract b. Glaucoma infiltrate with raised feathery borders. It can be incorrectly c. Diabetes d. Conjunctivitis diagnosed as herpes simplex. Patient history and clinical b is the correct answer. Secondary glaucoma can occur as signs need to be taken into account when making the a result of microbial keratitis due to the blockage of the differential diagnosis
After the closing date, the answers can be viewed on the 'CET Online' page of www.abdo.org.uk. To download, print or save your results letter, go to 'View your CET record'. If you would prefer to receive a posted results letter, contact the CET Office 01206 734155 or email [email protected] DO July 2012_1 26/06/2012 09:06 Page 39
Diary of events
July 9 details visit www.afio.co.uk or email dispensingoptics Independents Day 2012 - ‘Close [email protected] encounters of the patient kind’, the The Professional Journal of the Association National Motorcycle Museum, October 16-20 of British Dispensing Opticians Birmingham. For details visit International Opticians Association www.independentsday.co.uk (IOA) - Convention to be held in Perth, Volume 27 Number 7 of 12 Western Australia. All ABDO members EDITORIAL STAFF July 17 are members of the IOA. If you would Editor Sir Anthony Garrett CBE Area 2 (North East) - Air your views and like more information regarding this trip Assistant Editor Jane Burnand ask questions on the vote on the contact Ros Kirk on 01189 871020 or Production Editor Sheila Hope Email [email protected] ABDO name change and the new Jane Burnand on 020 7298 5102 or Features and News Editor Nicky Collinson Articles of Association with Peter Black, email [email protected] Email [email protected] vice president, also Chris Bottomley Administration Manager Deanne Gray FBDO, on handmade frames, and a October 18-19 Email [email protected] visual recognition quiz on myopia, 3 NOC 2012 - organised by AOP on ADVERTISEMENT SALES CET points, buffet 6.30pm, Bluebell Inn, behalf of LOCSU and the Optical Telephone 01892 667626 Wentbridge WF8 3SP (between Confederation, sponsored by Topcon, Email [email protected] Pontefract and Doncaster off the there is a wide range of speakers and SUBSCRIPTIONS A1M, near Jnt 32 on the M62). sessions on offer, Hilton Metropole, UK £100 Overseas £110, including postage Contact [email protected] Birmignham. Tickets, which include a Apply to Tom Veti ABDO, Godmersham Park, Godmersham seat at the AOP awards dinner, are Kent CT4 7DT September 17-23 available from www.locsu.co.uk Telephone 01227 733922 National Eye Health Week - For details Email [email protected] log-on to the Vision Matters website October 28 ABDO CET www.visionmatters.org.uk Area 2 (North East) - 4th Annual CET CET Coordinator Paula Stevens MA ODE BSc Day and Exhibition, Weetwood Hall (Hons) MCOptom FBDO CL(Hons)AD SMC(Tech) September 19 Hotel, just up the road from the village ABDO CET, 5 Kingsford Business Centre, Layer Road, Kingsford, Colchester CO2 0HT BCLA - Presidential Address, Dr at Headingley, Leeds LS16 5PS. Open Telephone 01206 734155 Catharine Chisholm to present ’Life in to members from other Areas. Please Email [email protected] the fast lane’ contact lenses and register your interest at Email [email protected] driving’, Royal Society of Medicine, [email protected] to be sent CONTINUING EDUCATION REVIEW PANEL London W1. For details email further updates when available Keith Cavaye FBDO (Hons) CL FBCLA [email protected] Andrew Cripps FBDO (Hons) PG Cert HE FHEA November 22 Kim Devlin FBDO (Hons) CL Stephen Freeman BSc (Hons) MCOptom FBDO (Hons) Cert Ed September 29-30 BCLA - 9th BCLA Pioneers Conference Abilene Macdonald Grute FBDO (Hons) SLD (Hons) LVA ABDO Conference and Exhibition - and evening lecture, Royal Society of Dip Dist Ed Cert Ed Holiday Inn, Stratford-upon-Avon. For Medicine, London. For details visit Richard Harsant FBDO (Hons) CL (Hons) LVA sponsorship opportunities and to book www.bcla.org.uk Andrew Keirl BOptom (Hons) MCOptom FBDO Paul McCarthy FBDO PG Cert HE FHEA exhibition space contact the ABDO Angela McNamee BSc (Hons) MCOptom Conference Office (Event Exchange November 25 FBDO (Hons) CL FBCLA Cert Ed Ltd) by email at rsvp@event Eyecare 3000 - London, The Queen Edwin Moffatt FBDO exchange.co.uk or call 01225 869000. Elizabeth II Conference Centre, Linda Rapley BSc FCOptom Delegate booking forms are available London. For details visit JOURNAL ADVISORY COMMITTEE from ABDO Membership Services on www.eyecare3000london.com or Richard Crook FBDO 01227 733902, 01227 733912 or 01227 telephone 01848 332020 Kim Devlin FBDO (Hons) CL 733922. Kevin Gutsell FBDO Ros Kirk FBDO April 13-15 2013 Angela McNamee BSc (Hons) MCOptom October 13-15 Optrafair - Federation of FBDO (Hons) CL FBCLA Cert Ed Association for Independent Manufacturing Optician’s industry Dispensing Optics is published by Optometrists and Dispensing Opticians show, National Exhibition Centre, ABDO, 199 Gloucester Terrace, London W2 6LD AIO) - Annual Conference 2012, Birmingham. For details visit Cotton’s Hotel, Knutsford, Cheshire. For www.optrafair.co.uk I Dispensing Optics is printed by Lavenham Press, Lavenham, Suffolk CO10 9RN © 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 ABDO members are welcome to attend Area meetings in any area they wish written prior permission of the publishers
Dispensing Optics welcomes contributions for possible editorial publication. However, contributors warrant to the publishers that they Reminder for the end of CET period own all rights to illustrations, artwork or photographs submitted and also to copy which Registered practitioners are reminded that the current CET period ends on 31 is factually accurate and does not infringe any December 2012. By that date, to ensure continued registration with the GOC, you must other party’s rights have accrued 36 points as a dispensing optician or an optometrist, or 54 (36 +18) points ISSN 0954 3201 as a contact lens optician on the GOC’s CL Specialty list. The points must be confirmed Average circulation 2011: 8854 per issue - ABDO on your CEToptics record. Pending, or unconfirmed points will not count towards your Board certification requirement. If you have any enquiries about your points record, contact CEToptics (0843 208 5487), or for other enquiries, contact the ABDO CET Office (01206 734155 Tuesday - Friday). www.abdo.org.uk DO July 2012_1 26/06/2012 09:06 Page 40