JANUARY 2016
DISPENSING OPTICS
NEWS, INFORMATION and EDUCATION for OPTICIANS It’s a feeling
Stepper UK Limited 11 Tannery Road Tonbridge Kent TN9 1RF 01732 375975
Frame style shown: Si 50079 Dispensing Optics JANUARY 2016 Contents 20.
25. 38.
36. 10.
Features 35. Graduation “Keep learning, stay young”
18. New Year Messages 38. Preview Showcase snapshot 20. Product spotlight New year trend spotting Regulars 24. Continuing Education & Training Making the practice disability-friendly by Kim Devlin 5. DO Dispatches
28. Multiple choice answers 6. Letters
32. In practice 7. News Gender in optics by Antonia Chitty 8. Black Arts by ABDO president, Peter Black 34. Lively debate at Area Day 40. Jottings by Lesley Parkinson
41. FAQs by Kim Devlin FRONT COVER Model Nine Five 2600 42. Jobs & Notices from Nine Eyewear, www.nine-eyewear.com
Dispensing Optics JANUARY 2016 3 ReCreating Perfect Vision
΅ΙΣΠΦΘΙ͑΄ΙΒΞΚΣ΄ΙΒΞΚΣ͑ΝΖΟΤΖΤ͑͝ͷΠΣ͑ ΈΠΣΜ͑͝ΝΒΪ͑ΒΟΕ͑ͶΧΖΣΪΕΒΪ͑͟
ʹΙΒΝΝΖΟΘΖ͑ʹΙΒΝΝΖΟΘΖ͑ΥΥΙΖ͑ΥΖΔΙΟΠΝΠΘΪΙΖ͑ΥΖΔΙΟΠΝΠΘΪ͑ΥΥΠΕΒΪΠΕΒΪ͒ www.shamirlens.co.uk DISPENSING OPTICS The Professional Journal of the Association of British Dispensing Opticians
VOLUME 31 NO 1
EDITORIAL STAFF Editor Sir Anthony Garrett CBE HonFBDO Assistant Editor Jane Burnand DO Dispatches Managing Editor Nicky Collinson BA (Hons) Email [email protected] Design and Production Rosslyn Argent BA (Hons) HAPPY NEW YEAR Email [email protected] Admin. Manager Deanne Gray HonFBDO We start the New Year with a very full Email [email protected] calendar, with challenges and changes EDITORIAL/ADVERTISING ahead and every reason to believe that Telephone 0781 2734717 Email [email protected] your Association will continue to grow and Website www.abdo.org.uk thrive. In so doing, the ABDO board and executive team will do all we can do to ensure the best possible service to you SUBSCRIPTIONS UK £140 our members. Overseas £150, including postage Apply to Tom Veti Enclosed with this month’s issue you will find your personal Association of British Dispensing Opticians copy of our 2016 events programme. As you will see, all new Godmersham Park, Godmersham, Kent CT4 7DT CET will include more hands-on skills workshops and training Telephone 01227 733922 Email [email protected] to help members access meaningful interactive CET at Area Website www.abdo.org.uk events throughout the UK. All the required core competencies
ABDO CET are covered for DOs, CLOs and, as usual, we will be seeking to Head of CET Paula Stevens MA ODE BSc(Hons) gain CET approval for optometrists too. MCOptom FBDO CL (Hons)AD SMC(Tech) 2015 ended with the news that the General Optical Council ABDO CET, 5 Kingsford Business Centre, Layer Road, (GOC) had admitted to a problem concerning the wrongful Kingsford, Colchester CO2 0HT release of confidential data (see News page 7). We take data Telephone 01206 734155 Email [email protected] protection very seriously and have kept a close watch on the or email [email protected] situation. We will continue to monitor this and will raise any
CONTINUING EDUCATION REVIEW PANEL concerns members may have if anything new emerges in the Joanne Abbott BSc(Hons) FBDO SMC(Tech) coming weeks. Keith Cavaye FBDO(Hons)CL FBCLA Andrew Cripps FBDO(Hons) PG Cert HE FHEA At ABDO College, Huntley Taylor completed his spell as Kim Devlin FBDO(Hons)CL Stephen Freeman BSc(Hons) MCOptom FBDO(Hons) FHEA Cert Ed chairman of the College trustees at the end of December. Abilene Macdonald Grute BSc(Hons) MCOptom BSc(Hons) FBDO(Hons) He has served as chairman for four years with great SLD(Hons)LVA Dip Dist Ed Cert Ed Richard Harsant FBDO(Hons)CL(Hons)LVA distinction and commitment and I know that the whole Andrew Keirl BOptom(Hons) MCOptom FBDO College team are most grateful to him for a job well done. Angela McNamee BSc(Hons) MCOptom FBDO(Hons)CL FBCLA Cert Ed The trustees have elected Angela McNamee to succeed Linda Rapley BSc(Hons) FCOptom PGDip PGCE Andrew Stokes FBDO SMC(Tech) Huntley and I am sure everyone would wish Angela well as she takes up office. JOURNAL ADVISORY COMMITTEE Richard Crook FBDO Once again, may I wish everyone a happy, successful and Kim Devlin FBDO(Hons)CL Kevin Gutsell FBDO(Hons) SLD prosperous New Year. Ros Kirk FBDO Angela McNamee BSc(Hons) MCOptom FBDO(Hons)CL FBCLA Cert Ed Sir Anthony Garrett ABDO general secretary DISPENSING OPTICS IS PUBLISHED BY ABDO, 199 Gloucester Terrace, London W2 6LD DISPENSING OPTICS IS PRINTED BY P&P Litho Ltd, Hanworth, Middlesex TW13 6AR
© ABDO: No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted in any form or by any means whatever without the written prior permission of the publishers
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ISSN 0954 3201
AVERAGE CIRCULATION: 9,063 Jan-Dec 2015 ABDO Board certification
Dispensing Optics JANUARY 2016 5 HAVE YOUR SAY Email [email protected] or write to Dispensing Optics, PO Box @ 233, Crowborough TN27 3AB Letters
DISMAY AT LVC PROPOSALS
It has come to my attention that ABDO is actively considering With modern technology, we can provide a platform or forum for disbanding the Low Vision Committee (LVC) and having some expertise to be shared more widely than it is presently, and provide low vision representation on a Clinical Committee instead. This support to our members engaged in local commissioning and other dismays me more than I can say. eyecare services such as school vision screening. The LVC consists of vastly experienced, dedicated DOs who are The lecturing careers of our most experienced professionals will be all considered experts in the field. Between us, we have years of far from over. Indeed, if our aspirations are realised – to have a DO experience in the practice of low vision and are highly regarded on every commissioning negotiation body, and to see low vision and by other eyecare professionals. We are all invited to lecture on minor eye conditions services commissioned everywhere in line with different aspects of low vision and some of us have given talks the LOCSU pathway – then their services as trainers will be in all around the UK as well as in Ireland, Scandinavia, Europe and demand like never before. Asia. This in itself raises the profile of DOs and ABDO. In the past, various committees meeting perhaps two or three times Members of the committee are all delegates to various groups per year, whilst undoubtedly proactive in their stance, have been and organisations, for example Vision 20/20, the Macular unable to react quickly enough in a rapidly changing world. This has Disease Society and so on. These members then report back to sometimes meant that we have not been able to react at all, and the committee thus increasing awareness of new developments have had to accept others – usually optometrists – speaking on our and ensuring that committee members are well informed and behalf, or worse still being completely forgotten. well placed to promote all aspects of low vision practice. A new Clinical Committee, employing a number of full-time ABDO Most of the committee are, or have been, LV tutors for ABDO employees, as well as representatives from the membership, will be and we have organised several LV CET days, which proved very in a much better position to respond in future and to coordinate popular and were all fully subscribed. We have also arranged LV task and finish working groups where they are necessary using the lectures and workshops at various ABDO Area events and at our right skill set as required. annual conferences. Who will carry out this important work in the future? It will be our intention to provide leadership training to regional leads and sub-regional leads to support them in their roles, and for Low vision practice is one of our protected activities and ABDO us to continue to support a large number of dispensing opticians should, as it has in the past, promote its practice to our with training in Ophthalmic Public Health, which has encouraged so members and help them to obtain the knowledge and practical experience, which will enable them to offer their expertise in many to take the plunge and get involved with their LOC in the first what is one of the most important and satisfying areas of place [see Jottings page 40]. practice. With an ageing population, the need for good LV A lack of coordinated oversight of committees has led to practice will only increase. duplication of effort, frustration and delay, and on occasion has My fear is that with the disbanding of the LVC, the profile of impeded progress on important issues. Additionally, our current DOs and ABDO in this field will diminish and opportunities for structure fails to represent our key clinical work – ophthalmic our members to help the visually impaired will decrease. We will dispensing including paediatrics – in any way. This will form a key be throwing away a body that is a fantastic pool of knowledge part of the role of the new Clinical Committee too. and experience and replacing it with a very pale imitation. This The ABDO board totally agrees with the assertion that demand for would be a disaster for any of our members who wish to low vision services will continue to increase to unprecedented practice low vision in the future. levels. However, we remain disappointed that only a small minority G. Smith FBDO(Hons)LVA of clinical commissioning groups have commissioned LV services in Billingham England. The purpose of the proposed changes is not to hold back low vision practice, rather to lend it greater importance and encourage greater engagement from the profession, the sector and Peter Black replies the wider healthcare community. It is not the intention of a new regional structure, aligned to NHS I would encourage all current committee members to seize one of commissioning areas, to suddenly dismiss the massive contribution the many opportunities that will come from this initiative and our many skilled and dedicated committee members bring to the continue to engage with our profession. I would also encourage any profession. There will, in fact, be more opportunity for members, members who have fostered an idea of getting involved to step out including Gil’s experienced colleagues on the Low Vision from the shadows when the opportunity arises. Committee (LVC), to get involved with the Association. This will still include representing our profession on inter-professional working We need the whole profession to unite behind professional groups, charity initiatives and the like. advancement for us all and I hope the above has allayed the fears that Gil expresses, which are no doubt shared by others. The current Area Consultation Day will become a different, larger event. It will enable DOs who sit on LOCs, or who are otherwise Peter Black MBA FBDO engaged in commissioning services, to come together on a regular President, ABDO basis and disseminate the information from meetings they have attended in the same way that Gil describes. I am sure that from this ABDO events and booking will be spawned special interest groups in areas such as low vision, information can be found at paediatric and specialist/hospital dispensing, minor eye conditions, www.abdo.org.uk/events specialist contact lens fitting and so on.
6 Dispensing Optics JANUARY 2016 NEWS GOC DATA BREACH @ SUPPORT OFFERED ABDO has said it will be on hand to support any of its members affected Letters continued by a recent data breach by the General Optical Council (GOC). GOC chief executive and registrar, Samantha Peters, wrote to all registrants last month to apologise after the regulator incorrectly shared the contact addresses of fully qualified registrants with three CLARIFICATION ON COLLEGE GUIDANCE organisations working within the optical sector. The data contained the home addresses of some registrants, if they In Peter Black’s column, ‘Rules and regulations’ published in had selected their home as their main contact address. However, no other the November 2015 issue of Dispensing Optics, I was personal information was divulged. The GOC subsequently asked the disappointed to see him be critical about our guidance three organisaitons to destroy the data it incorrectly shared, and reported despite the fact that ABDO was involved in its updating. the incident to the Information Commissioner’s Office. When we reviewed the guidance, a representative from ABDO general secretary, Tony Garrett, said: “Any breach of personal ABDO was on the review group because we recognised the data is a very serious matter and ABDO will maintain close contact with importance of our guidance to the whole practice. We the GOC over this. Clearly the GOC has acted swiftly once the breach became apparent. It is also reassuring to see that the GOC is acting to consulted stakeholders, including ABDO, at every stage. improve their data security. The last stage was a consultation about the actual text of “Any member who has concerns about this is urged to direct the guidance. questions in the first instance to the GOC, but ABDO is ready to talk to Regarding the content of his column, I would like to make any member affected. Please contact the ABDO Membership Department the following points: Paragraph A259, which is about if you need further advice,” Tony added. supervising the sale and supply of spectacles, says should, which means that you can take another course of action if OPTRAFAIR BOOKING OPENS you think it appropriate, and can justify it. It is not the law and the General Optical Council does not decree it. So, Online registration has opened for Optrafair 2015 (9-11 April, NEC, professional judgement comes in. Birmingham) with details of the CET programme now available. Professor John Lawrenson will deliver the opening keynote address on As we are not talking about restricted groups, you do not the impact of technology in optometric practice, presenting the findings have to be on the premises, so the patient could come back of two new diagnostic accuracy studies. to pick up the glasses and pay when there is no optometrist Returning to Optrafair will be Question Time, chaired by Radio 4’s or dispensing optician there. Peter White, to address the ‘tough questions’ facing the optical industry However, the optometrist or dispensing optician who is in 2016. The panel includes Joshua Silver, inventor of the fluid-adaptive supervising remains responsible, so they should ensure that spectacles, ophthalmologist Andrew Bastowrous, and social entrepreneur the appropriate steps are taken. This could be through and health campaigner, Julia Manning. training, having procedures in place and making a New for 2016, the British Contact Lens Association (BCLA) will host a dedicated contact lens stream, providing contact lens CET points. For the judgement about whether it is necessary to check every full programme and to register, visit www.optrafair.co.uk step or whether it is possible to delegate fully, depending on the person doing the task.
This was in the previous guidance. It was not introduced when the guidance was updated. I hope this clarification is helpful. You can find the guidance at www.college- optometrists.org/guidance
David Parkins MSc FCOptom FEAOO President, College of Optometrists
We kindly reserve the right to edit contributions prior to publication. Follow us on Twitter @ABDOCollege, @MembershipABDO and @ABDONews
Education programme unveiled
Send in your letters for the EDITOR’S NOTE: Our apologies to Julian Jackson of Fight for Sight for February issue by 7 January wrongly identifying him in a photograph on page 39 of last month’s issue.
Dispensing Optics JANUARY 2016 7 BLACK PETER BLACK MBA FBDO ARTS Our monthly column from the ABDO president
Sing it from the rooftops
ast month I had another terms of improving services to patients. can all get on with the job of safely caring advertorial published in Politics Currently ophthalmology departments for patients.” First, a magazine circulated to all accept more outpatient appointments than I would be very interested to hear, via members of the House of any other discipline, yet many of these seven the letters page of Dispensing Optics, whether Commons and House of Lords, million appointments could easily be seen by members think we are on the right track. seniorL civil servants and others with an community opticians. interest in politics. “Reducing backlogs reduces blindness as A TIME TO BE PROUD It is hard to know whether £1,000 is patients are currently losing their sight while It gave me enormous pleasure at the end of value for money in putting our message in waiting for follow-ups. The cost of over a November to once again welcome our front of the people who control our destiny; million people living with sight loss in terms graduands to Canterbury Cathedral to nevertheless I thought it would be of interest of health, social care, disability benefits, etc, is formally welcome them to their chosen to our members to see what I had written… depressing given that most of it is preventable. profession (see pages 34-36). “Additionally, four million GP appointments, From the pulpit I reminded the MESSAGE TO THE POLITICIANS and over half of eye related A&E cases, could graduands of the debt of gratitude they “It’s now over 30 years since I gained the be more cost-effectively dealt with by a owed their families, supervisor, employer right to vote, yet regardless of who I’ve voted community optometrist. and others. I asked them to support their for, the government has always got in on the “Around 20 community eyecare services chosen profession explaining that giving back of the same old promises: to protect need to be commissioned by over 200 clinical back means supporting their colleagues the NHS and ensure our children get the commissioning groups (CCGs). This grossly around them, staying engaged in the education they deserve. inefficient system means few CCGs have profession so that one day they too can “Staggering numbers of children remain commissioned the services they should. This have a trainee or pre-registration dispensing functionally illiterate because they need postcode lottery leads to discrimination optician of their own and pay back the debt glasses and don’t get picked up as having against disabled people on an industrial scale of gratitude they owe to the profession that difficulties until it is too late. The wiring to because low vision (LV) services are the least has nurtured their qualification. the brain fails to connect up properly and commissioned of all. LV is a core competency It is a timely reminder to all members these people will never fulfil their visual or of dispensing opticians who can provide that the letters after our names that we academic potential. Reflect that 70 per cent these services extremely cost effectively. worked so hard to gain are only ours to use of prisoners have uncorrected long/short- “Dispensing opticians also have a lot to for as long as we remain members of our sightedness or astigmatism contributing to offer in public health. Healthy Living Opticians professional association. Our hard earned poor literacy and a life of crime. are already proving successful in driving protected title of dispensing optician is only “Similarly we haven’t seen much progress over-40s health checks and awareness of ours to use for as long as we remain in the NHS these past 30 years. Practitioners alcohol, smoking cessation, diet and obesity. registered with the General Optical Council. have felt the force of change all too often, Opticians give the NHS easy access to ‘healthy’ In their darkest hours some of our ranks but the main impact of Shipman, Bristol, people, especially men in their 40s, many of have questioned the need to be a dispensing Morecambe Bay, Mid Staffs, etc, has been for whom are beyond the reach of doctors but optician, to remain a professional on the government to interfere with the operational attend opticians for glasses or contact register of professionals. We operate in an efficiency of the NHS without firstly addressing lenses, and now, a blood pressure check and environment of substantial deregulation, the main cause of much of its problems. conversation about their alcohol intake. however, fitness to practise proceedings in “The government, and parliament, must “To get best taxpayer value from recent years have shown that our regulator fulfil its overriding purpose – to legislate; only community eyecare services then eyecare takes restricted functions, ophthalmic then can it spend taxpayers’ money wisely. practitioners must be allowed to expand dispensing to children and visually impaired Acting on the Law Commission’s review of their scope of practice according to patient adults, very seriously indeed. This healthcare will produce fit-for-purpose need, and be able to communicate securely Association hopes that soon regulated legislation so that healthcare providers and with other healthcare practitioners within function will be extended to other groups their regulators are not hide-bound by rules the NHS. Initiatives such as Devolution of vulnerable patients including people with that pre-date the internet, modern healthcare Manchester are improving eye healthcare learning difficulties. technology, and many of the treatments and commissioning, but to realise the full benefit So if you ever catch yourself diagnostic techniques available today. government must legislate to ensure the complaining that all you ever seem to do is “Opticians have a lot to offer the NHS in regulatory framework is fit for purpose so we see kids then reflect that actually we are
8 Dispensing Optics JANUARY 2016 honoured to serve our regulated patients. and an optometrist. It is down to us as Paediatric dispensing and ophthalmic individuals to change this situation. dispensing for the visually impaired, and Next time you check in a patient for their others with special needs is amongst the appointment and you catch yourself saying: most rewarding work we will ever do. “Please take a seat, the optician will be with No matter how much people like to you shortly”, correct yourself and say: “I am think of it as simple, ophthalmic dispensing your dispensing optician today, please take a is often not simple, and done well it is vital seat and the optometrist will be with you to the well-being of the clients who depend shortly”. And if you hear colleagues making upon us for clear comfortable vision every the same mistake, correct them too as this day. We should never forget that without misrepresentation does nothing for public us, regardless of how good their sight test understanding of either profession. is, many patients would be functionally If we are to educate our patients blind, unable to work, study or play, without properly about our various roles it can only our services. Our job is important and we start with us as individuals communicating EYECARE FAQ: TIPS should be proud of it. with patients one at a time. We must not FOR HEALTHY LIVING To the layman, the work of a dispensing ignore the small daily differences we can all This month EyecareFAQ is all about assistant and the work of a dispensing make which, over time, add up to the big ‘live healthy, see healthy’ with tips optician look to be the same and yet, as we difference we have wanted for so long. for healthly living and how this know only too well, they are not. relates to your eyes. There will also In the blink of an eye a dispensing A NEW BEGINNING be a focus on the jargon used when optician can assess the fit of a frame, how Resurrecting old ideas for a modern purpose talking about eye disease, to improve it, what material the frame is is no bad thing, however, there comes a time demystifying complex words. Don’t made of and the tools needed to make the when fresh thinking is required if true progress be surprised if you see a few pairs required, sometimes extremely complex is to be achieved. Over the next 12 months, of snooker specs on social media adjustments. A moment later you can check the Association will see fundamental change too, to tie in with the World Snooker the area around your patient’s eyes and in the way it operates. A working group has Masters at Alexandra Palace. ears for signs of skin cancer and other already concluded that the current ABDO Area There are also new postcard-sized pathology, and if necessary communicate structure and a number of its committees images on low vision. Remember to bad news and refer the patient to an are no longer fit for purpose in the modern visit the archive containing questions optometric or medical colleague. optical world. and answers many other topics in the As a profession we have the knowledge We will be moving to a regional structure and the communication skills to explain and based around NHS commissioning regions public part of the ABDO website, reassure patients concerned about eye and the purpose of our regions will not simply www.abdo.org.uk/information-for-the- disease or surgical procedures. We triage be to provide CET, it will be to engage and public/eyecarefaq/. As an ABDO and trouble shoot, we problem-solve and support our members in getting involved in member, all these are available to you supervise, we do so much more than the local commissioning of eyecare. for use on your own practice site and ophthalmic dispensing. And if anyone asks Work is already going on behind the scenes social media channels. you what the difference is between a to ensure that ABDO can support its members Eyecare FAQ is at: registered dispensing optician and an optical in the new world of eyecare commissioning. • www.facebook.com/eyecarefaq dispensing assistant then answer simply – A small but significant step for contact lens • www.twitter.com/eyecarefaq THE KNOWLEDGE INSIDE MY HEAD. opticians engaged in dry eye/minor eye • plus.google.com/+eyecarefaq conditions services (MECS) has been to • www.pinterest.com/eyecarefaq BACK TO THE FUTURE include the fitting of punctum plugs within • instagram.com/eyecarefaq/ In a world where attention spans are shorter our indemnity insurance at no extra cost. Have you followed ABDO on social than ever, getting the message across about I very much hope that those stalwarts of media yet? We are now on LinkedIn the difference between a DO and an OA is the profession who have supported our too: just search for Association of difficult – however it has been done before. I various committees and been active at Area British Dispensing Opticians. We had am reminded of an old British Optical level in the past will embrace the changes around 150 new followers for ABDO’s Association poster that, alongside a picture and continue to support the Association. official page on Facebook, but there of an optician fitting a frame, said: “It took Additionally, there will now be opportunity are still many members who have yet three years of training to make adjusting for many more people to get involved in to find the page. Please share the link your spectacles look this easy”. This idea is the future of our profession. We now need https://www.facebook.com/ABDOMe being rekindled to be displayed in hospital troops on the ground – a DO on every LOC – mbers with colleagues if you meet eye departments as part of a joint initiative if we are to ensure we are not forgotten in them at events, and do post your with the British and Irish Orthoptists the next round of eyecare commissioning. photographs from optical events to Society. I hope too it will be made available Our target is low vision to be the page too. with Dispensing Optics to all members. commissioned in every area of the UK, for You can also find news for ABDO Of course differentiating ourselves from participation by all DOs, and contact lens members on Twitter @MembershipAbdo, optical assistants is only part of the problem. opticians included within MECS and more general news from the world A bigger issue is the public not understanding commissioning in every area. We need of eyes at @ABDONews the difference between a dispensing optician your help.
Dispensing Optics JANUARY 2016 9 NEWS
Schools to receive free software Keynote speaker, William Hague
CAMPAIGN TO DELIVER HAGUE TO TOP THE BILL SCHOOL SCREENING William Hague will deliver a keynote Specsavers has teamed up with address at the 2016 Optix Software optometrists and vision scientists at City business conference, being held at the University to launch a Screening for Celtic Manor Resort in Newport on Schools campaign, which will see online 14-16 March. vision screening software provided free The former Conservative leader will use Publicity push for overnight correction of charge to all schools nationally. his Yorkshire wit to describe the pitfalls of The three-minute screening test called politics and the disasters caused when media, SchoolScreener EZ, developed by Professor drink, politicians and debating come together. ORTHO-K PR DRIVE Other speakers include Dave Fishwick, David Thomson of Thomson Screening, has No7 Contact Lenses has embarked on a the man behind Channel 4 TV’s The Bank been shown to detect common paediatric six-month regional consumer marketing of Dave, and Debra Searle MVO MBE. On eye conditions. drive to raise awareness of orthokeratology the opening evening delegates will be The scheme follows recent research by (ortho-k) amongst children and adults. the College of Optometrists, which found entertained by Miles Jupp, host of The News Quiz on BBC 4. Also speaking will be This will see successful case studies that less than a third of local authorities in highlighted in the local press with publicity England provide vision screening for Chris Barez-Brown who specialises in “helping people reconnect with their inner genius”. for the practices involved. children. Specsavers’ own research in 2014 Katie Harrop, No7 professional services revealed that one in five children aged 12 Optix owner Trevor Rowley said: “The manager, said: “The potential for ortho-k is and under had never had an eye conference is in its ninth year and to say enormous – there are unlikely to be better examination, while the latest November they have been a success would be an ways to secure patient loyalty and to 2015 data revealed that nearly four million understatement. As always we aim ever promote an independent practice with such UK children had never had their sight higher, and for 2016 we have made some specialist knowledge. The biggest barrier to tested at school. changes with a new five-star venue and Through funding by Specsavers the another awesome line-up of speakers.” wear is a lack of awareness.” software, which can be operated by teachers and other school staff or STUDENT DO SUSPENDED volunteers, is being made available at no The General Optical Council (GOC) has suspended Imran Tafader, a student cost to all 27,000 primary and secondary dispensing optician based in London, from its registers for nine months. schools in the UK. Following the test, the A GOC Fitness to Practise Committee found his fitness to undertake training software automatically generates reports impaired by virtue of dishonesty in relation to his exam results. for parents or guardians to help them In making its decision the committee, chaired by Sara Fenoughty, said: “In this particular make informed decisions about their case, the registrant sought to obtain a university place by lying in two separate documents child’s eyes. about his results. Honesty is a fundamental requirement of the Code and any professional Dr Nigel Best, Specsavers’ clinical registered with the Council. It underpins all a registrant’s activities and duties.” spokesperson, said: “There is still a lack of Tafader, also known as Mahammad Tafadher, is now unable to continue his training in general awareness among parents and the UK or apply for full registration with the GOC for the period of his suspension. teachers about the importance of regular Tafader was given 28 days to appeal his suspension, during which time he is suspended eye tests. We have seen some cases where from the register under an immediate order. children have been misdiagnosed with dyslexia, ADHD or learning difficulties EYEDROPS INFO EXPANDS when in fact the child simply needs The ADP Consultancy has expanded its Eye Drops Database, www.eyedropsdatabase.co.uk glasses. The fact is all children should have The portal lists more than 250 ocular health products, providing detailed information regular eye tests from the age of three or and support on products for eyecare and other healthcare professionals including pharmacists. four years old.” New is a Dry Eye Referral Directory for eyecare and healthcare providers to enable Our photograph shows a child at them to refer dry eye patients to specialist colleagues more easily. Meanwhile, pharmacy Ravenstone School in London testing the consultant, Ross Ferguson, is helping to guide the expansion into pharmacy products. SchoolScreener EZ while wearing occlusion Guest articles can also now be found on the database with the first one entitled, glasses. ‘Supplementing against dry eye disease’.
10 Dispensing Optics JANUARY 2016 M a i - Z e e
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1 4 : 1 9 NEWS
Ben Fletcher, Boots Opticians MD Barracloughs staff at Alfriston
TACKLING THE TRAINING TO MAXIMISE SALES LITERACY CHALLENGE Rodenstock recently hosted a series of sales training events led by Martin Gross, who Boots Opticians is a lead signatory on specialises in optical retail skills training. the Vision for Literacy Business Pledge One day’s training was dedicated to Barracloughs the Opticians, which closed its 2016, launched in November by the practices to allow everyone to attend the event at Dean Place Hotel in Alfriston, East Sussex. National Literacy Forum. Practice MD, Jeremy Heynes, said: “Closing our practices for an afternoon demonstrates The pledge underlines the commitment the importance we place on training for both our professional and support staff. The of the UK business community to raise training went incredibly well and everyone got something out of it. The presentation was literacy levels by taking action in three perfectly pitched and was considered the best training event we have had.” specific areas: in their workforce, in their local area and at a national level. Ben Fletcher, managing director of ALL TOGETHER NOW… Boots Opticians, commented: “We strongly ‘Better together’ is the theme of the believe that the optical profession has a big 2016 Sight Care Conference to be held role to play in supporting young people in on Monday 29 February. The event will be the UK with their education and literacy - preceded by a workshop and pre- especially those in deprived areas. conference dinner. “Eighty per cent of a child’s learning Sight Care chairman, Garrey Haase, will occurs through sight and an undiagnosed open the conference and highlight some vision problem can affect a child’s ability to concentrate for long periods of time and of the challenges facing independents delay reading development. Signing the whilst recognising the progress that has High achiever, Dawid Czolba Vision for Literacy Business Pledge made been made. WISEMAN MEMORIAL perfect sense, and our missions are closely Writer and broadcaster Nigel Risner aligned. We look forward to taking a returns to motivate delegates to ‘get out PRIZE WINNER collaborative approach with the National of their comfort zone and do things Dawid Czolba has received the Wiseman Literacy Trust and other likeminded differently’, while Association of Memorial Prize in honour of the very high businesses to support the enjoyment of Convenience Stores chief executive, James standard of his marks in the practical children’s education and literacy.” Lowman, will give his views on what examination of the Level 4 Diploma for today’s consumers want from small Optical Technicians, which included rimless NEW SALES ROLE businesses and the professions. glazing. Other speakers include former warrant Apothecaries’ Hall, home of the Richard Stott is the new area sales Worshipful Company of Spectacle Makers, manager for Dunelm Optical, covering officer in the Royal Army Physical Training was the setting for the prestigious the Midlands, parts of Lincolnshire and Corps, Erak Simsson, Antonia Chitty, ceremony, and at which a number of South Wales. optometrist John Davidson, Curtis Alcock, people, including Dawid, were admitted to Richard, who has more than 10 years’ who owns an independent hearing care the Freedom of the Company. A total of 14 sales experience in the optics industry, practice, and Nick Rumney. people were awarded the diploma. said: “Dunlem is one of the most “Our aim continues to be to provide a “The course was an eye opener for me established suppliers of eyewear and thought-provoking and motivational day prescription glazing in the UK, so I’m and has given me a much broader aimed at every member of the practice delighted to be joining the company as it perspective. I now have the ability to moves forward into its next phase of growth.” team and we’re confident this year’s calculate a single ray of light passing through Dunelm is launching more than 50 new programme will not disappoint,” said Sight a lens, such is the level of training,” said frames in its annual prescription sun Care chief executive, Paul Surridge. Dawid, who works at Mallon + Taub in brochure, which is available now. Register at www.sightcare.co.uk London’s Marylebone High Street.
12 Dispensing Optics JANUARY 2016 just £10
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BBGR, Ground Floor, Unit 10, 3 Scholar Green Road, Manchester, M32 0TR Offer ends on 30 June 2016 NEWS
On a mission at Leicester Forest East
TRUCK STOP TEST SHOP During Road Safety Week (23-29 2015 campaign supporter, Will Garwood November), Vision Express gave free eye tests to motorists and HGV drivers at MADE YOU BLINK… service stations along five of the UK’s Mike Riley busiest roads in a joint initiative with the Fight for Sight is running its Road Haulage Association. #BlinkWinkThink campaign again in the The campaign, EyeTestsSaveLives, was lead up to 100% Optical, of which it is a SALES MOVE launched following research from road charity partner. Mike Riley is the new Heidelberg safety charity Brake showing that one in The charity is encouraging the public to Engineering sales manager for the North four drivers are risking their licence by not take a selfie, covering one eye, to help of England. having regular eye tests. spread awareness of eye research and then Mike, who most recently worked for During the awareness week, Vision share their image on social media using the Optos, said: “We are working to ensure Express offered free sight tests, via a #BlinkWinkThink hashtag. A £3 text that OCT is more integral to High Street downloadable voucher on its website. From donation can also be made by texting optometry. It’s moving towards becoming its Vision Van, it also gave comprehensive BWTC16 £3 to 70070. an accepted piece of technology, not 30-minute eye examinations to drivers at As well as seminars from key members just for optometrists at the top end of five UK service stations and truck stops. Of of the Fight for Sight Speaker Network, the the market.” those examined, one in five were referred to charity will have a number of events at the their GPs for further tests, while 72 per cent show, including pre-bookable ‘blind dates’ needed a new prescription. with Fight for Sight researchers, an Eye Spy LENS THAT GRIPS Vision Express CEO Jonathan Lawson competition, a #BlinkThinkWink photo said: “Five million drivers acknowledge booth and its popular Rock-e-oke on the ONTO WATER driving with less than perfect vision and Sunday night. Clearlab Europe’s new silicone hydrogel road crashes caused by poor driver vision Catherine Woodhead, director of daily contact lens, Beyond 1-day, is made are estimated to cause 2,900 casualties and fundraising at Fight for Sight, said: “We’re with its Aquagrip Technology, which acts cost £33m in the UK per year. With these really excited to launch the #BlinkWinkThink like the natural tear film. statistics in mind, we wanted to launch a campaign to coincide with 100% Optical “Our scientists isolated and modified campaign targeted at motorists, including 2016 and we are pleased to build on our the structure of mucin to multiply its those who drive professionally, to encourage awareness and fundraising activities to water holding powers,” explained them to take their eye health seriously.” support our pioneering eye research.” Dominique Gastaldi, Clearlab’s UK sales manager. “If traditional lenses only had one arm for holding onto water, imagine IDAY AND NEG JOIN FORCES Aquagrip as two strong arms holding onto Proven Track Record (PTR), which runs the annual Independents Day business symposium, both ends of a water molecule. Like and the National Eyecare Group (NEG) are to stage a joint conference in November at magnets, these arms allow the water the Birmingham Hilton Metropole. molecule to attract more water molecules, The format is still under discussion, however, it’s likely that NEG will run its free-to- recreating a stable tear film on the lens attend members conference on Sunday 6 November, with Independents Day following on surface. Monday 7 November. “Beyond 1-day also combines our PTR director, Nick Atkins, said: “We are delighted to have reached an agreement with successful Tri-Channels Technology, NEG to be joining forces in delivering a combined event that we are confident will offering high oxygen, ion and water provide even greater business support to the independent sector. With an increasingly transmission, our Advance Wavefront crowded optical events calendar and four different events for the independent sector, Aspheric Design and our Truform Edge PTR believes this is a sensible move for practices and industry alike.” Design, to ensure an optimal wearing Phil Mullins, NEG director of business development, added: “We strongly believe that experience for your patients. Like the rest building partnerships is the best way to support the important independent sector. It is of our products, Beyond 1-day is only sold with great enthusiasm that we embark on the new adventure with the PTR team to to eyecare professionals,” added create a new combined event.” Dominique.
14 Dispensing Optics JANUARY 2016 Versport Exclusive Sports protection www.lenstec.co.uk Children and adults available now from www.tantlabs.com
www.rawdonoptical.co.uk NEWS
PI’s Nick Atkins congratulates Ankur Stargazer, one of the five styles
BOTTOMS UP FOR U2 SINGER BACKS CAMPAIGN OPTICS WIN Revo has debuted a new capsule collection of sunglasses in collaboration with U2 lead singer and activist Bono as part of the Buy Vision, Give Sight campaign to Gloucester-based practice group, John prevent vision impairment and blindness in more than five million people by 2020. Weygang Optometrists, had cause for Revo will donate US$10 from the sale of every pair of Revo sunglasses, including celebration following its visit to the Bono’s Vision over Visibility collection, up to a total of US$10m to the Buy Vision, Give Glaskar stand at Independents Day 2015. Sight initiative. These funds will go to the Brien Holden Vision Institute. After entering distributor Positive Impact’s (PI) prize draw they won the installation of the complete Glaskar refillable lens cleaning system, including the unique ‘Optic for Optics’ dispensing system and 300 personalised atomiser bottles in the company’s brand colour – emerald green. Optometrist Ankur Trivedi said: “We’ve had the system for a few weeks now and it’s already become a talking point with patients, many wanting to know if it’s whisky or gin in the bottle!” New look for lens products MORE! ON OFFER PACKAGING In addition, CooperVision’s peroxide formula, Multi has been rebranded with AT MIDO 2016 FRESHENED UP the fresh new name, Refine One Step with Following its record‐breaking success in CooperVision has refreshed the packaging resigned packaging. Patients will also now 2015, with more than 45,000 visitors, for its recently acquired solutions receive an upgraded lens case every time Mido will return this year from February portfolio to create a more unified look they begin a new bottle of Synergi, All In 27 to 29 in Milan. and feel for the range. One Light or Hy-Care. “Mido is one of the few trade shows in Designed as a twist on a droplet theme, Rob Healey, European marketing head the world that is growing and increasing the new packaging features different colour of reusable lenses at CooperVision, said: its exhibiting space,” said Mido president, coding for each product to help establish “With Sauflon now part of the Cirillo Marcolin. “This is the result of years consistency across CooperVision’s CooperVision group we’re excited to be of keen attention to the needs of our worldwide solutions market. New able to offer practices a revitalised stakeholders: visitors and exhibitors alike. packaging for Synergi and All In One Light solutions range that really stands out on We got to this point by fostering will be appearing in practices shortly. the shelf.” innovation, promoting experiences and maximising interaction. Buyers, INDUSTRY GATHERING distributors and opticians who want to More than 100 frame, lens, technology and business providers gathered at the Hilton make their mark and boost their Hotel, Paddington, last month for the annual luncheon of the Federation of competitiveness in the sector know that Manufacturing Opticians (FMO). they must be at Mido.” The event saw the new FMO chairman, Mark Truss, take the chain of office from For 2016 there will be a new area, outgoing chairman, Barry Dibble, who received a clock from the FMO in recognition of called More!, where the eyewear trends his two years’ service. and technology of the future will be Mark is group sales director of the Norville Group and he will work alongside new presented. Register at www.mido.it FMO chief executive, Bryony Pawinska.
16 Dispensing Optics JANUARY 2016 OCTips Sponsored by NEWS PATIENTS SEE RED Spectrum Eyecare patients had to double- take when the Lewes Ladies Football Team dropped in to help the practice unveil its SHOULD I DISPLAY MY new window display featuring the team’s OCT SCANS IN COLOUR black and red colours. Ten of the first team squad manned the OR GREYSCALE? phones, talked to patients, signed autographs and posed for pictures with The squad on parade fans outside the practice. Spectrum Eyecare, part of Leightons Opticians and Hearing Care Group, are the official sponsors of Lewes Ladies Football Team. Angela Whitney, dispensing optician at the practice, said: “The Rookettes are a tribute to the town of Lewes and we are truly delighted and honoured to continue our sponsorship of such a hardworking team of ladies who are committed to 100 per cent success.”
APPEAL TO undeniably under huge strain. The NHS must urgently find new opportunities to NHS MANAGERS transform services within the current The RNIB (Royal National Institute of climate of ever-tightening financial Blind People) is calling on hospital allocations. managers to ensure every eye “Evidence shows that existing sight loss Optical coherence tomography (OCT) images advisers are indispensable to over-stretched PROACTIVE STANCE AT department has access to a qualified are usually displayed as either a grey scale or eye departments and have tremendously sight loss adviser. AIOcolour CONFERENCE representation of reflectivity. In colour increased productivity and raised standards In its new See the Need report, RNIB Theimages, Association changes for in Independent optical reflectance are of patient care whilst delivering a welcome sets out how integrating sight loss advisers, Optometristsillustrated inand a colour-coded Dispensing Opticiansfashion in which financial return. That is why RNIB is also known as eye clinic liaison officers or (AIO)warm has colours hailed (red,its conference yellow, white) held indicate at high ECLOs, contributes significantly to the NHS urgently calling for health providers to Eastwoodreflectivity Hall and in Nottingham cold colours (green,in October blue) indicate low reflectivity. agenda of providing high quality care for all ensure that every eye department in the UK as the biggest and one of its best. patients, whilst delivering efficiency savings. has access to a qualified sight loss adviser.” ThisAs well display as the was chance made topopular launch by a time-domain new RNIB chief executive, Lesley-Anne Read the report at AIOOCT Independents’ (TD-OCT) systemsPatients because Quality it Code, improved the Alexander, said: “Eye departments are www.rnib.org.uk/beingthere the abilityconference to differentiate featured a betweenround-table tissue structures in images that were of a relatively discussion with optical body leaders, who poor quality. However, the colour display can all agreed that the landscape of the ABDO AREA 12 (SCOTLAND): make it difficult for the human eye to visualise independentsubtle changes. sector was changing. EMERGENCY SERVICES AND CET AREA Organiser Nigel Burnett Hodd said: “I In greyscale images, brighter shades are used NEWS was thrilled with the feedback from Report by Fiona Anderson, chairman instead of warm colours to indicate high delegates… and was delighted with the A cold November night did not put off ABDO members turning out for reflectivity and where there is absence of round-tablereflection, session, the image which appears was a black. unique In recent the last Scottish CET event of the year and current CET cycle in Aberdeen. opportunity to hear the different We saw around 20 per cent of the membership from the area brave cold, wet weather years, the greyscale display has become popular perspectivesthanks to ofthe key introduction leaders and of opinion spectral-domain to gain those last few points and competences, and support our sponsors. shapersOCT in(SD-OCT), the disparate which world provides of optics.OCT images of a We always try to do something a little Onefar of higherthe important resolution messages and quality for thanme TD-OCT. different at events – but even I could not was the view that the profession must take envisage a mass evacuation of the hotel It has been proven that greyscale is superior to responsibilitycolour for visualisingfor its own subtle future, changes as leaving in retinal when the fire alarms went off, only to be it upstructures to government in the 13is unlikelyretinal layers, to be epiretinala stood outside awaiting Grampian’s finest viablemembranes option.” (ERM), photoreceptor (PR) and Fire & Rescue Service to check the building retinalAIO chairman, pigment Peter epithelium Warren, (RPE) added: morphology*. and allow us to re-enter. “TheColour launch may of ourassist new the Independents’ human eye in roughly My thanks to all our sponsors, Patientsdifferentiating Quality Code between is a verytissue visible structures; and Silhouette, Nikon, Thea Pharmaceuticals, concretehowever, step greyscale in helping is superiorthe general for representingpublic William Morris, Orange Eyewear, Zeiss and subtle changes. Because detecting the smallest Wolf Eyewear. My thanks also to our Waiting for the all-clear structural changes, change over time, and speakers Julian Wiles from Younger Optics, referring a patient for the right treatment at the Fiona Halliday from Nikon, and Professor Christine Purslow from Thea Pharmaceuticals. right time is the key to preventing sight loss, We also had a CET evening on 23 November in Edinburgh. There was a good turnout of FORit is THE recommended MOST UP-TO-DATE OCT images ABDO are displayed EVENT DETAILS keep an eye out for the members and thank you to our sponsors WRX, Shamir, William Morris, Rodenstock, Orange in greyscale. eNews landing in your in box, and the Eyewear, Hoya, Menrad and Charmant. events*Brar, sectionM. et al of(2009) the website, Colour versus visit grey-scale Thank you to our speakers also: Ty Dawkins from Menrad, Andy Sanders from Hoya, www.abdo.org.uk/eventsdisplay of images on high resolution spectral Andy McCulloch from Shamir and Joanne Abbott from ABDO. OCT. Br. J. Ophthalmol. 93: 597-602.
Dispensing Optics JANUARY 2016 17 2016 New Year messages FOCUS We ask the leaders of the optical bodies and organisations what their focus is for 2016, and if they have a New Year’s resolution…
BETTER CONNECTED IN 2016 “Before we look ahead to 2016, I would like to extend congratulations to my North East colleague, Lesley Oglethorpe, who was named as the Dispensing Optician of the Year at the Association of Optometrists (AOP) Awards 2015. I’d also like to welcome James Dawson, our new council member representing dispensing opticians (DOs). “For the AOP, 2016 will be a consolidation year as we develop and make best use of the technology that we have recently invested in. Our re-launched website has a new ‘For patients’ section including a who’s who guide to optical practices, highlighting the valuable work that DOs do. We’ve also produced a new animated video to raise awareness of the importance of sight tests with the public, which ABDO members are welcome to use. “In addition to the new website our journal, OT, has also changed its look and moved onto a monthly frequency and a subscription model. The print journal and associated website, www.optometry.co.uk, features news, perspectives, business advice and career support for DOs and contact lens opticians (CLOs) with a desire to keep in touch with their profession. OT offers five CET-accredited articles every month, plus a CET- accredited video every two months, supporting DOs and CLOs to enhance their professional and practice skills. “Our range of 2016 events will also be of interest to DOs and CLOs, including the education programme at 100% Optical, our nationwide peer review and legal roadshows, as well as our newly-launched career sessions, focusing on skills for the workplace. I’d like to wish all readers a very happy, healthy and prosperous New Year. “My New Year’s resolution is to ensure that our respective professions are promoted, valued and respected by the sector and the wider health arena.” Kevin Thompson, chairman, Association of Optometrists
BUILDING AWARENESS AND EDUCATING “My goal as BCLA president for 2016 is to attract the keen young sector to share their knowledge with our more experienced members and for them to learn a few old tricks in return. You’re never too old to learn something new, or too young to learn something old. BCLA UK, taking place in June this year, will provide an ideal opportunity for the younger members of our profession to build their knowledge on contact lenses. “On a personal level, my professional goals are twofold. One is to take the practice to greater clinical levels, the second is to spread the word globally of the life-changing ways that contact lenses can help our patients. “The advice I would give to DOs and CLOs to help them achieve their professional potential in their everyday working life in 2016 would be to focus primarily on the patient’s needs. By identifying these and matching them with the best possible contact lens or spectacle choice – or even better both – you will end up with a happy, loyal patient. Don’t limit your choices: the Optical Wardrobe should be filled to the brim to suit every task! “I believe the key to collectively building our reputation is, in one word, education. Building our own and our patients’ knowledge will help build the industry’s reputation. Send every patient out with a greater working knowledge of the eye/lids/tears – and know what is achievable. As for my New Year’s resolution – I will see how fat I get over Christmas!” Brian Tompkins, president, British Contact Lens Association
WORKING TOGETHER FOR THE FUTURE “Happy New Year and best wishes to you all. So, what will 2016 bring? Demand for our services and shrinking NHS funds are not going away, and I believe that it is becoming increasingly essential to develop robust pathways that will ensure the best possible care for patients in the future. To achieve this, we do need to work together, each playing our part whether in practice or in finding solutions for the whole sector. “New research and technology mean that the environment in which we all work is changing fast. One way to adapt to those changes is to foster a culture of continuous learning for everyone in the practice. No doubt 2016 will bring further challenges. Working collaboratively across all the professions at both a local and national level is the only way we will find solutions that use everyone’s strengths for the good of patients. “By working together, dispensing opticians and optometrists can demonstrate the benefits of collaboration to other professions and, at the same time, keep eyecare firmly on the map of policy makers and the public. “My new year’s resolution is to have a better work/life balance.” David Parkins, president, College of Optometrists
18 Dispensing Optics JANUARY 2016 USHERING IN A NEW ERA “The appointment of Bryony Pawinska to the role of FMO chief executive signals a new era for the FMO in 2016. Bryony’s knowledge of the entire optical sector is set to ensure that more than ever before the products and services provided by FMO members will advance the profession still further. “Cutting edge lab technology, space-age diagnostic devices for the early detection of eye disease, plus frames and lenses to inspire, are all the essential tools for optical business provided by FMO members. The most advanced practice management systems and the means for optical practices to communicate directly with the NHS is likely to advance significantly in 2016. “Many of the FMO members’ practice building tools will be on display at Optrafair in April, with a host of inspiring surprises. Education is a major focus for the event and, coupled with the chance to get hands- on with technology, it is a show not to be missed. “The FMO is an integral part of the Optical Confederation and looks forward to closer co-operation with a host of optical profile-raising initiatives in the months ahead. Whether it is PR about promoting drivers’ vision, screening for AMD or caring for glaucoma patients, at the heart of every message is FMO- member technology. “My New Year’s resolution is to hope and pray for a safer world and one that brings peace to so many troubled parts of the world.” Mark Truss, chairman, Federation of Manufacturing Opticians
A YEAR FOR UNITED ACTION “At FODO we share much of our DNA with dispensing opticians. We evolved in part out of the massively successful Guild of Opticians and very much value that ancestry. It keeps us grounded in the realities of commercial practice. However just as our predecessors had the courage to move on then for the good of the sector, so we must now do so again. “In 2015 the Optical Confederation (OC) was five years old and has achieved some outstanding successes. However, it must now enter a new phase to meet new challenges. To mention but two of these: we need to up-skill and expand our scopes of practice to manage the shift of care out of hospital; we must also modernise the way we work together as partners to support the new devolution agenda not only in Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland but also across England. “’Devo Manc’ is just the start and we could find ourselves as a sector having to fight to safeguard the benefits of sight-testing for patients and to ensure fairness for our professions across a dozen or more devolved healthcare systems. “None of the optical bodies can do these things alone and we must pool our resources and do more together. Chris Hunt, as OC chair, and Alan Tinger as LOCSU chair, have initiated these vital changes. All the optical bodies must rally behind and support them. No-one in optics can afford the divisions and professional rivalries of the past. Whatever it takes, 2016 must be the year for united action. “As an ex-civil servant I tend to think in terms of parliamentary cycles, not years, but my New Year’s resolution is never to let anyone put us down in 2016 – whatever the government or NHS managers may throw at us – and they will.” David Hewlett, chief executive, Federation of Ophthalmic and Dispensing Opticians
TIME TO TEST OUR METTLE “As we welcome another New Year, what will it hold for us? We always hope for a kind year but in reality, it is not what the year may give over to us but what we intend to take from it. “Relying on chance or fate is always dangerous; better to have a real set of goals and go after them. Sure, along the way there will be setbacks and disappointments but there will also be unforeseen opportunities and unexpected joys. The most important thing is to be proactive and positive. It isn’t what life throws at us that matters but how we face and circumvent the obstacles we meet along the way. “The Optical Confederation (OC) has already set its key objectives for this New Year. We know exactly what we are setting out to achieve for the sector and are under no illusions that some of the goals we have set will test our mettle. But, if we do not aim for the stars, how can we expect to even reach the moon? “So for us, the following are not only the strategic objectives of the OC but also our collective New Year’s resolutions: to improve the recognition of the importance of good eye health and regular eye examinations; to promote the clinical skills and experience of optometrists and opticians in delivering eye health services to all; to promote community optical practice, both fixed and domiciliary, as an integral part of primary care and the first point of contact for eye health; and to promote safe and proportionate regulation, appropriate remuneration and investment and optimum employment and career opportunities. “ABDO is a key and enthusiastic player in the Confederation and with such a committed organisation supporting you, the future for dispensing opticians is looking good. You can all play your part too because it is only together that we can make 2016 a great year – so let’s do it! “My personal New Year’s resolution is to just live life, it is short enough as it is.” Chris Hunt, chairman, Optical Confederation
Dispensing Optics JANUARY 2016 19 FRAME STYLE ELEVATING STYLE THROUGH MATERIAL The word from Charmant HQ is that 2016 will be the year of redefined retro styling allowing the iconic shapes and styles of the 1950s to be reborn, using modern materials and vibrant colours. “Over the past few years, Britain has experienced a revolution in eyewear taste with wearers no longer content to hide behind frowsty styles; people are switching to brighter colours and adding bolder styles to their spectacle choice,” says Louise Brunton, Charmant general manager. “Charmant strives to cater for this developing trend by creating a range of contemporary styles with an exceptionally cosmopolitan feel. Each brand within Charmant’s collection has a unique signature, offering something special and different. Charmant CH10602 (pictured) shows how a simple Precision engineering from Charmant style can be elevated by the clever use of materials,” added Louise. New Year trend spotting
Start the New Year in style with a fabulous array of eyewear options for the whole family – and hear what industry experts predict will be the key eyewear trends for 2016
BE A LITTLE BIT DIFFERENT The X-eyes collection from Continental Eyewear has been developed over the years to offer eyewear that’s a little bit different from the norm. “More than 35 styles complete the range, which is literally aimed at spectacle wearers who wish to be seen wearing their glasses – but who also don’t want to compromise on comfort,” says Neal Grimason, sales and marketing director at Continental. “So, age is not a factor. In fact, there are no guidelines for the type of patient who could wear an X-eyes frame.” The company’s brochure illustrates the complete collection, demonstrating the One of the latest X-eyes models for men broad choice on offer. Model 161 (pictured) is a gent’s metal with silicone sides. There are three colour options – black, blue and green.
TAILOR-MADE FRAMES FOR YOUNGSTERS Making its New Year UK debut is the Miraflex Flexible & Fashion (F&F) frame collection, available from Dibble Optical. Aimed at young children through to teenagers, the F&F range has been optimised for children’s unique facial characteristics with an anatomically designed nose bridge and flexible temples. The Flexible & Safe collection (F&S) is crafted from a special lightweight and malleable plastic material with hinge free temples, no metal parts and an adjustable headband. The range consists of 23 models in up to 33 colours, including six frames with a special nose bridge for children with a small or negative nasal projection. Managing director Barry Dibble says: “Young children are much more likely to injure their eyes than adults and it is important to recommend a frame that will not worsen facial or eye injury in the event of an accident. Safe and secure The Miraflex F&S range not only minimises this possibility, it will also with Miraflex reduce or even eliminate the need for continual frame repairs or replacements.”
20 Dispensing Optics JANUARY 2016 SHOW-STOPPING FASHION STATEMENT PIECE Making a show-stopping fashion statement for the start of the year is the brand new ladies metal model CM9926 from the Eyespace Cocoa Mint collection. Embracing a unique oval design, the frame showcases ornate workmanship across the embossed metal eye front and temples. Featuring Stop the show with Cocoa Mint’s signature dual-tone plating technique and inspired by the this Cocoa Mint model flattering cat-eye shape, the piece takes inspiration from the world’s most prestigious runway collections. It is available in two complexion-flattering tones: C1 is a trend-led berry piece accentuated by modish mocha ovals; C2 is chic teal showcased with classic black.
WOODEN EYEWEAR FOR NATURE LOVERS Less than a year from launch, the MyWoodi eyewear collection now includes six new models and three new finishes. There are squarish lines for those who love a more assertive style and softer, more rounded models for a more romantic accessory. The complete line comprises five sunglass and nine optical models – all available in seven wood varieties/colours – produced in Italy from wood materials sourced all around the world. The three new shades are grey- black, red-brown and brown. An urban style from the MyWoodi eyewear consists of eight layers of wood. The eyewear goes new MyWoodi collection through 60 manufacturing phases, 15 of which are carried out by hand, adding up to an overall weight of 13g. The product is completed by a hidden side hinge.
CUTTING EDGE EYEWEAR NO ILLUSION The 2016 SPX Illusion collection from Silhouette includes new bright colours, patterns and gradients. The full-rimmed frames are made from the most flexible and comfortable high-tech plastic, SPX+, a material that has been developed by Silhouette and used exclusively to make even full rim eyewear as light and comfortable as possible. The frames are hand dip-dyed to achieve the gradient shades and tortoiseshell effect, making each pair one-of-a-kind. The four shapes are combined with fresh gradients of colour to help the wearer make an expressive statement. “With the SPX Illusion, we have succeeded in making eyewear that is A full-rim style the 2016 SPX Illusion range cutting edge, thanks to the combination of lens shape and colour,” says Roland Keplinger, head of design at Silhouette.
SUBTLE PROCESS CREATE BOLD STYLING Intricate detailing is to the fore within the latest Oliver Goldsmith styles, available from Fabris Lane. Liily OLI021 (pictured) uses subtle built-in colour blocking to highlight the soft cat-eye lens shape. The contrast colour is also used on the nose pads to balance the frame. To achieve this, a CNC machine is used to cut the acetate pieces to ensure ultimate precision. They are then fused to the main frame colour so the frame shape can be cut out, leaving the contrast colour only in the corners. Colour and contrast from Oliver Goldsmith
COLOUR BRIGHTS ENHANCE LIGHT AND FINE OPTICALS With optical frames becoming ever finer, Inspecs has been experimenting with the use of bright colour even in everyday essential frames. “We think the perfect work to weekend style starts with practical eyewear,” says Richard Walker, Inspecs head of design. “Radley eyewear adds smile to your eyewear style with playful colour and prints that pop with personality.” The company’s use of TR90NZ material allows for lightweight styling in flattering eye shapes, and a host of colour options are available to tie in with the Radley handbag and accessories lines, including Summer Fig Raise a smile with the purple, Snap Dragon hot pink and Reed lime. Radley collection
Dispensing Optics JANUARY 2016 21 GLAMOUR FOR FEMALE WEARERS The Puccini collection from International Eyewear is designed with the more mature female wearer in mind. Feminine and fresh, new Puccini 266 and Puccini 267 are set to add a touch of glamour to 2016. Puccini 266 (pictured) is an opulent ladies metal supra featuring embossed two-tone plating with a scatter of crystal accents. The frame is available in warming Gold (C1) with contrasting frosted silver temples, or pale Pink (C2) with complementary deep Puccini 266 (C1) in warming Gold burgundy temples.
EXCLUSIVE ACETATE TO TEMPT THE OVER-40S OWP introduces two new acetate styles in exclusive materials this month. Styles 2150 and 2151 are available in six colours, ranging from the purist black and white to iridescent turquoise-violet to a soft denim-caramel, with different surface options available including glossy or matt. The new acetates have been combined with a slick rectangular lens (style 2150) and a more rounded front (style 2151). In addition, style 2151 has raised temples, where branding is subtly absent; instead small inlaid metal platelets reveal which designer has produced the frames. Offering the ideal statement piece for wearers who are over 40, the OWP’s new OWP ladies’ collection currently comprises 38 styles. collection launching BRINGING NEW YORK PERSONALITY TO LIFE this month ‘Fun, colourful and without boundaries’ best describes the Charles Stone New York collection, available from William Morris London. Drawing its inspiration from New York and the fashion scene the city produces, the company creates its trend boards using the cutting edge influences that make New York the city that never sleeps. More than 100 colour palettes and countless materials are used to create the shapes in colours and materials to ensure every frame is a statement piece. “On trend and ready to wear, we control the entire process – from design of the first drawing to finished production,” says a company spokesperson.
GREAT BRITISH OUTDOORS CELEBRATED The Great British outdoors, with long stretches of sandy beaches, lush green fields and long bracing walks through ancient woodlands, is the inspiration for the latest Joules winter optical collection. Crafted from high quality acetate, delightful hand drawn floral prints make their appearance on the outer temples of Beatrice JO3018, while they are layered on the inner temples of Valerie JO3019 for a subtle pop. Highlights from the collection include the brand’s signature hare hopping around on neon two-toned temple tips as seen on stainless steel Erin JO1023 (pictured), with its rounded shape and petite sizing, available in a classic palette finished with vibrant accents. A stack of acetates from Charles Stone New York Charles Stone New A stack of acetates from
Erin JO1023 from the new Joules line
22 Dispensing Optics JANUARY 2016 FRAME Style predictions for 2016 STYLE
“We’ll welcome in strong 80s influences in fashionable eyewear in 2016, and colour will be a big part of that. Expect blues, pinks and turquoise shades as well as zingy accents on inner frames and sides made more wearable against darker, more classic coloured fronts. “Proportions are edging larger again, with simple angular lines creating a contemporary shape. Because frame profiles are thinner, they can come further down the face without making too much of an overt style statement. It’s more understated.” Peter Beaumont, director, Dunelm Optical Classic styling by Paul Costelloe for Dunelm “There is an unquestionable continuation of the geek-chic look, with bold, defined retro eyeshapes filtering well into 2016. Upgraded retro design detailing will further this already-established trend, as will the continued use of tactile materials. The spring/summer 2016 catwalks captured almost every hue of blue and pink, the latter of which broke away from its feminine image, taking on a new directional edge through shades that are daring yet completely wearable.” Nicky Clement, marketing manager, Eyespace Eighties influences, “For Stepper there are four words to describe our design direction for 2016 – Classic, Colour, Vintage and Lightness. As in previous years, we take ‘classic’ and create interest and vigour with innovation through materials and processes, and creativity through colouring technology. colour brights and “Trends will continue to be influenced by vintage styles, and shapes will be deep rather than elongated; this influence will be seen in more rounded, softer or panto shapes. Demand for bigger styles makes the need for lighter materials paramount in delivering comfort.” bold fronts will Richard Crook, managing director, Stepper (UK) “Silhouette believes that bright, patterened and statement frames will be the loom large in 2016… main focus for eyewear brands next year and our SPX Illusion frames will definitely be included in this hot eyewear trend.” Roland Keplinger, head of design, Silhouette.
“Here at Inspecs we’re expecting 2016 to be all about brightly coloured accessories, light and fine optical frames and athletic styling in premium, luxurious materials. “For 2016 in optical I predict we will be seeing more use of green, especially darker shades. Metal is becoming popular again especially in the mainstream women’s collections; for example, engineered metals using industrial finishes mixed with acetate to soften the overall aesthetic. Confetti coloured tortoiseshells are increasingly popular as they bring a pop of colour but have an easy-to-wear base.” Richard Walker, head of design, Inspecs
“Hot eyewear trends for the near future are for brighter colours and bold fronts, which contrast with understated sides. The development of new materials allows frame designs to push the boundaries of comfort, lightness and design capabilities; for example Poly Ether Sulphone – a very hard-wearing and exceptionally strong plastic used in the creation of some of our Elle frames.” Louise Brunton, general manager, Charmant
“Eyewear trends usually echo the fashion world, taking inspiration straight from the catwalk. It is predicted that 2016 will see the reinvention of the swinging 70s, bringing back the effortless, free love way of life, translated into eyewear through bold patterns mixed with deep warm colours. “Nineties influences are also set to be key, contrasting with 70s styling and building on futuristic trends – providing bright, fun, optimistic and energised encouragement to eyewear through the use of vivid colour and geometric patterns.” Geometric patterns feature in one of the latest Marthe Jansen, assistant designer, International Eyewear Puccini models from International Eyewear
Dispensing Optics JANUARY 2016 23 CET COMPETENCIES COVERED Dispensing opticians: Communication, Professional Conduct Optometrists: Communication, Professional Conduct
Making the practice disability-friendly by Kim Devlin FBDO(Hons)CL
ractice owners and managers such patients. Even those patients who are frequently told to look at don’t consider themselves disabled will their practices through the appreciate a little extra help; they might eyes of a patient. Does the wish to return or recommend a friend or colour scheme look bright and family member to such a helpful and Pmodern? Is there dust on the window considerate establishment. display? Are the staff talking to each Firstly, the various types of disability other rather than welcoming a potential that potential patients might have will be patient? All these things may well described. discourage someone walking through the door, but what might those patients with PHYSICAL DISABILITY a disability particularly want from an This is the disability first thought of when optician? someone says ‘disabled’ – the wheelchair user. This might be because of the universally recognised ‘Disabled’ sign (Figure 1). Patients (or ‘customers’ if preferred) may have different degrees of mobility. Quadriplegics not only cannot walk but they have limited, if any, use of their upper body making visiting an opticians, or anywhere else, a major hurdle. Figure 2. Wheelchair users can find heavy doors impossible to manage Many patients will have a simple walking stick to keep them steady and there are all manner of walking aids in between. Considering the patient’s point of view, Take time to study the range of before even entering the practice there’s a wheelchairs and walking aids available, it’s problem: is there parking nearby? It’s a big enormous. By understanding the various problem if you have to transfer from car to aids it can be appreciated how best to help wheelchair, and then propel yourself across Figure 1. The international sign of disability such users. Test driving a busy roads or crowded pavements. Then, wheelchair/walking frame can reveal how when you arrive, there are steps up the The purpose of this article is to give irksome everyday obstacles can be, and how door or a narrow doorway or heavy doors some ideas as to what can be done to invisible a disabled person can become to with awkward handles (Figure 2). encourage disabled patients to come into a the rest of the world as they go about their None of this is a problem if you’re able practice and also what the law requires for busy lives. bodied but to negotiate steps then a heavy
This article has been approved for 1 CET point by the GOC. It is open to all FBDO members, and associate member optometrists. The multiple-choice questions (MCQs) for this month’s CET are available online only, to comply with the GOC’s Good Practice Guidance for this type of CET. Insert your answers to the six MCQs online at www.abdo.org.uk. After log-in, go to ‘CET Online’. Questions will be presented in random order. Please ensure that your email address and GOC number are up-to-date. The pass mark is 60 per cent. The C-43016 answers will appear in the April 2016 issue of Dispensing Optics. The closing date is 31 March 2016.
24 Dispensing Optics JANUARY 2016 door that opens outwards, can make getting into the establishment next to impossible. Automatic opening doors help; check on the sensitivity though, as a slow moving patient can easily get trapped in a fast closing door or be knocked off their feet. Once such a patient is actually inside the premises, more problems await them. Trip hazards abound while trailing wires, discarded toys, torn carpets or low display units are all an accidents waiting to happen. Figure 3. Accessibility signs: braille available, facilities for hearing-impaired Keep clear open spaces between the door people, facilities for sight-impaired people and the reception desk – it actually looks better as well. If someone in the practice has a special door handle, hesitation on crossing the Seating is another concern for less interest in low vision, especially if the threshold, a general air of uncertainty mobile patients. Are there any seats at all? practice has an arrangement with the local might indicate a problem, especially if the Are they low? Do they have armrests for hospital eye service (HES) to provide low smile or nod is ignored. the patient to push him or herself up on? Is vision aids (LVAs), they can give excellent Coming out from behind the counter, there a table near to the seat to sort things hands-on advice as to how potential walking towards the customer, speaking in a out on? Is there a space to park a wheeler patients may be encouraged to come in. clear, firm voice to greet them will usually or stick? As for a hot drinks machine, this is Such patients, of any age, may only be be very welcome. Asking, “May I help you to probably a non-starter for disabled patients dispensed to by registered practitioners. the counter?”, will usually be greeted with and young children alike. They are particularly pleased with practical gratitude. Giving a guiding hand and an Even the spectacle frames themselves help from well-trained staff. explanation as to the layout of the area. For can be a hazard. Imagine a patient with Greeting patients is always important. example, saying, “If you just move a little to Parkinson’s disease; their trembling hands When anyone enters the store/practice they the left you’ll avoid the sunspec display”, could so easily poke a side into the eye. Sit should be greeted immediately, not left to demonstrates to the customer that they the patient securely at a mirror, place the wander around. If the optical assistant is on can have confidence in your understanding frame on their face, adjust the mirror for the phone, a smile or nod of of their problems. the best light and keep their own specs encouragement makes the world of Good clear signage is useful for all close to hand. difference to an uncertain customer, unless patients, not just the sight-impaired. Use In the consulting room, ensure that a they cannot see it. clear fonts and bold black lettering on a wheelchair can physically get through the There might well be unmissable clues to white background. The widely recognised door, and that it can fit next to the a customer’s poor sight – a guide dog or icons (Figure 3) for welcoming those with consulting chair which the patient can then white stick – but many customers have sensory or other impairment should be slide/lift themselves into, with a little help. poor sight without any obvious signs. All backed up with knowledgeable staff. Or even position the wheelchair in front of staff should be aware of such potential No-one enjoys being patronised and it the chair. The optometrist will appreciate a difficulties and look for signs that the can be a fine line between helpful and stool that goes down low to allow them to customer might need help. Fumbling with a patronising. As a sighted person, you cannot perform retinoscopy and ophthalmoscopy without kneeling. Do the other instruments such as slit-lamps have low enough chin rests for a comfortable and accurate reading? Telephone directories aren’t thick enough anymore to boost the seated patient… Of course, home visits are an option and often welcomed. The NHS allows such visits under the GOS for those patients who are unable to leave their home unaccompanied, if the patient would be entitled to a NHS eye examination on other grounds, over 60 perhaps, or in receipt of the appropriate benefits.
SENSORY DISABILITY It might seem obvious that an optician’s practice would be able to help and understand the special needs of a patient with Sight Impairment or Serious Sight Impairment (SI/SSI) but that is not always the case. Figure 4. The DO must recognise any clues to disability
Dispensing Optics JANUARY 2016 25 Continuing Education and Training
truly understand the problems a disabled consist of an amplifier and a cable that confidentiality and one of judging mental person experiences but knowledge of goes around the perimeter of the room and capacity. It’s not always straightforward to available services if the practice cannot plugs back in into the amplifier. The be able to do both; it must be decided, as the help, the RNIB or local Blind Welfare amplifier then plugs into a sound source professional, which has to take precedence. organisations for example, will reassure a and a small microphone can also be Incapacity must not be assumed simply patient that the practice is sympathetic as attached for conversations. The electrical because someone makes an unwise well as professional. current in the loop produces a magnetic decision. Always act, or decide, for a person The other sensory disability is hearing field that sends sound directly to the without capacity in their best interests. Of impairment, the less obvious one perhaps hearing aids when they are switched to the course many patients might have a mixture but perhaps even more widely suffered, T-setting (also known as a loop of disabilities. Wheelchair users might be usually silently. This disability is frequently programme). A loop system must be well severely sight-impaired (SSI) or patients not even acknowledged by the patients maintained, all too often a sign will indicate with dementia may have speech impediments; themselves. Look out for the signs. Figure 4 a loop system present but it doesn't work; all which make life that bit more complicated shows a frequently seen gesture. Questions frustrating and awkward for everyone. for them and for practice professionals and incorrectly answered is also a classic Patients with hearing impairment may support staff. response of a hearing impaired patient in also have speech impairment or perhaps a If disabled patients are discouraged denial, as is the command: ”Don’t mumble!” post-stroke patient could have speech from choosing a practice for their eyecare, Modern hearing aids can be very small difficulties alone. These patients require the door is closed (literally perhaps) on a and discrete so it’s often hard to see them. more time and privacy as such conditions growing area of business opportunity. Patients often say, “I left my hearing aid out may cause great embarrassment. Offering a Disabled patients need professionals’ skills, coming here; I thought it would be in the pen and paper for them to respond to as do their family and carers. way!” When really, of course, the aid needs questions with is often helpful. to be in situ to dispense appropriately, not YOUR LEGAL RESPONSIBILITIES to mention the fact the patient needs to COGNITIVE DIASBILITY There are legal responsibilities for everyone hear any question, and answers to any This disability comes in many forms. in business specifically designed to prevent questions they have. Children and adults with learning anyone discriminating against someone There are tricks to help communications difficulties are regular attendees in practice. with a disability. While there is no compulsion with such patients. Ensure that they are Fitting such patients with suitable to dispense to anyone, a refusal must not looking at you before beginning to speak; spectacles is one of the cornerstones of a be on the grounds of disability (or race or speak slowly, not necessarily loudly, in short DO’s work. religion, etc). An optometrist or DO may not, sentences. As well as such tricks, consider Down’s syndrome patients, both adult for example, say: “It takes too long to test having a hearing (induction) loop fitted in the and child, need great skill with fitting and your eyes when you can’t hear what is being practice and displaying a sign (Figure 5), communication. Such patients often light a said, take your enquiry somewhere else”; or particularly in the consulting room where dull day in practice with their infectious “I haven't got time for this, I could see two lip-reading is difficult when the room is enthusiasm but they require time and patients in the time they take to answer a dark or the practitioner on the other side of patience to achieve a satisfactory outcome. question”, even if they might wish to. a piece of equipment. The, “Does he take sugar?” situation must Anyone coming into the practice should Hearing loops help people who wear be avoided. Always speak to the patient be treated courteously: it might be explained hearing aids with a T-setting. They normally first, include the carer in the question but that the consulting room is located on the establish that the patient, whatever their first floor and therefore not suitable for a disability, is the main priority. Decisions on patient with mobility problems. Remember costs or usage may have to be joint but the what the terms of the NHS Contract patient is the practitioner’s primary concern. stipulate; if a practice is listed as wheelchair It seems increasingly that patients with accessible, it must be wheelchair accessible. varying degrees of dementia come to ABDO’s Guidelines1 state: ‘1.1.1 opticians’ practices alone. It must be good Dispensing opticians shall always place the that such patients can live within the welfare of the public, who require their community but these patients need great professional services, before all other care and skill to help in a practical manner. considerations.’ The General Optical Council It is very hard not to patronise but the level (GOC) also has a Code of Conduct2, soon to of independence these patients have should be updated as Standards of Practice, that be established, and how far they can be requires registrants not to show any helped must be determined before family discrimination towards those with disability members or carers have to be involved. (Rule 13). ‘Make sure that personal beliefs Particular care should be taken over do not prejudice patient care.’ financial decisions. The new GOC Standards of Practice will Every individual must always be treated come into effect on 1 April 2016. NHS with dignity and respect to ensure that they England sets high standards for those who Figure 5. An induction loop can be a really feel safe and empowered to make choices are contract holders, in line with the GOC. helpful facility for patients with hearing and decisions. In practice there is a double The Disability Discrimination Act 19953 impairment responsibility to the patient, one of states unequivocally that anyone with a
26 Dispensing Optics JANUARY 2016 disability has the right to expect fairness FURTHER READING files/bild-mca.pdf?res=true (accessed from all. Other binding legislation includes • HM Government Department of Transport 17/10/2015). the Health and Safety at Work Act 19744; Inclusive Mobility (online) Available at the Equality Act 20105 (which states that https://www.gov.uk/government/uploads/ KIM DEVLIN chairs ABDO’s Advice and reasonable adjustments must be made to system/uploads/attachment_data/file/ Guidelines working group, and owns an remove barriers for disabled people), and 3695/inclusive-mobility.pdf (accessed independent practice in Leigh-on-Sea, the Accessible Information Standard6. 18/10/2015). Essex. She is an ABDO contact lens Whether a practice is a community one • Royal National Institute for Blind People examiner and a practice visitor. She also or a trendy city centre outlet, or you serve Top Tips for Healthcare Professionals 2014 serves on the GOC Registration your customers with disabilities or not, there (online). Available at http://www.rnib.org. Committee, is a Liveryman of the are legal and professional requirements – uk/top-tips-healthcare-professionals Worshipful Company of Spectacle and it makes good business sense as well. (accessed 18/10/2015). Makers and a trustee of the ABDO • Hardy E and Brooks L, The Mental Benevolent Fund. She was awarded the REFERENCES Capacity Act (online). Available at Hamblin Memorial Prize for outstanding 1. Association of British Dispensing http://www.scie.org.uk/publications/mca/ contributions to optics. Opticians. Advice and Guidelines (online) Section 1.1.1. 2015. Available at http://www.abdo.org.uk/advice-guidelines (accessed 10/10/2015) 2. General Optical Council. Code of Conduct for Individual Registrants (online). A new CET cycle dawns Available at https://www.optical.org/en/ Standards/Standards_for_individuals.cfm In mid-January DOs, CLOs and optometrists who did not meet the 2013- 3. HM Government. Disability Discrimination 2015 CET requirement will be contacted by the General Optical Council Act 1995 (London: Stationery Office, (GOC) to inform them of their position with regard to continued 1995). Available at http://www.legislation. registration with the GOC. An appeal period will follow so that the GOC gov.uk/ukpga/1995/50/contents(accessed can examine registrants’ CET records. 16/10/2015). When you first log-in to MyCET from January, the first screen you will 4. HM Government. Health and Safety at see is the Personal Development Plan (PDP) screen. You can use the PDP to Work etc Act 1974 (London: Stationery set your personal learning goals for the new cycle. The GOC will set an Office, 1974). Available at http://www. initial learning goal on your PDP based on the new Standards of Practice legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/1974/37/contents competency. (accessed 14/10/2015). Guidance for using the PDP will be included in Dispensing Optics in the 5. HM Government. Equality Act 2010 April issue. (London: Stationery Office, 2010). A video explaining the PDP will be available on the GOC website. The Available at http://www.legislation.gov.uk/ GOC CET online platform, including MyCET, will be unavailable from 1-11 ukpga/2010/15/contents (accessed January. After 31 December there will be no automatic ‘grace’ period for 14/10/2015). CET as there has been in previous cycles. 6. NHS UK. Accessible Information Standard ABDO cannot access your MyCET record for you. Only you and the GOC (Summary). Available at http://www. should have access. england.nhs.uk/wpcontent/uploads/2015/ 07/access-info-upd-er-july-15.pdf (accessed 14/10/2015).
NEW REPORT CAPTURES research division and third party supporters ophthalmology?; and how do British from the healthcare industry, the research attitudes to life – age, technology and ‘VISION OF BRITAIN’ aims to answer questions such as: why are expectations – impact on our vital senses? Optegra Eye Health Care has published a eyesight problems on the increase?; how do The report also unveils some specific comprehensive report, entitled ‘Vision of different age groups and UK regions care for concerns, particularly amongst the medical Britain’, offering an insight into the state and think about their eyesight?; what role community, regarding eyesight in the of the nation’s eye health. do GPs, optometrists and opticians play in working environment. With input from Optegra’s specialist educating patients and treating eyesight?; Request a copy of the report by ophthalmic surgeons, its Eye Sciences how does the demand on GPs impact on emailing [email protected]
Dispensing Optics JANUARY 2016 27 Multiple choice answers: MCAs Contact lenses with a difference by Keith Cavaye FBDO(Hons)CL SMC(Disp) FBCLA
1. Which statement is incorrect regarding the Miru 1 day has excellent oxygen permeability. Menicon Flat Pack lens? 4. Complete the sentence correctly. The Proclear 1 Day a. There is 0.2ml of solution surrounding each packaged lens lens is designed… b. This lens is made of hioxifilcon A a. with special technology enabling molecules to have only c. In its package the outer surface of the lens is always positive charges facing down b. with the power range -8.00 and +12.00 d. Each foil strip contains three lenses c. in delefilcon A material c is the correct answer. The outer surface faces upwards d. to reduce dehydration reducing the risk of contamination by contact with the inner d is the correct answer. By combating dry eye surface. syndrome lenses can be worn for longer periods.
5. Which statement is correct? 2. Complete the sentence correctly. Orthokeratology is a. The Saphir Rx lens is available with an addition from attempting to reduce myopia by… +1.00 to +3.00 a. fitting a lens with a central curve flatter than the cornea b. Hemlarafilcon A material has a traditional Dk value of 84 b. employing a lens with inverse geometry design c. Filcon V3 is a true hybrid material c. having a flatter mid-peripheral curve d. The ACLM Contact lens Year Book shows that 60 per cent d. restricting wear to daytime only of listed disposable extended wear lenses are silicone a is the correct answer. This produces central corneal hydrogel materia flattening, helping to reduce myopia. b is the correct answer.
3. Complete the sentence correctly. The Duette HD 6. Complete the sentence correctly. A ‘bull’s eye’ contact lens… fluorescein pattern may result from… a. attempts to link the optical performance of soft lenses a. prolonged use of extended wear lenses with the comfort of rigid lenses. b. high water content lenses with a low modulus b. has the peripheral area made of hemlarafilcon A material c. fitting a lens with a central curve flatter than the cornea, c. has a central portion with a diameter of 14.5mm and a steeper first peripheral curve d. available with a back centre optical radius between 7.40 d. using a rigid gas permeable lens and 8.60 c is the correct answer. This is the concept of b is the correct answer. This silicone hydrogel material orthokeratology.
Fashion weak? How you can make the difference between a fashion hit and a fashion statement by Elaine Grisdale FBDO FAAO
Six of the following questions were presented online to entrants to comply with the GOC’s best practice specifications for this type of CET
Complete the sentence correctly. A spectacle lens edged c. Mixing blue, yellow and red paint produces black 48mm x 38mm oval with the prescription -4.00/+2.50 x d. Tertiary colours are achieved by combining any two 180 and decentred down and in will appear… primary colours a. to have the thickest edge along the minus axis c is the correct answer. This is called subtractive colour b. thinnest along the vertical meridian, at the top edge mixing. c. thickest along the horizontal meridian, at the temporal edge d. thinnest at the geometrical centre Complete the sentence correctly. A colour wheel is formed… c is the correct answer. The power along the horizontal
a. of tertiary, primary and secondary colours to go letter, CET result your or save print download, To meridian is -4.00D and inward decentration will increase the b. with complementary colours adjacent to each other temporal edge thickness and decrease the nasal edge thickness.
c. using primary colours grouped together around the CET record'. your to 'View and go Log-in www.abdo.org.uk. periphery Which statement is true? d. By mixing at least two primary colours together a. The colours used in the fashion and art world are a is the correct answer. additive colours b. If cyan, magenta and green are combined for printing the Complete the sentence correctly. Computerised result is black thickness reduction methods can be effective where…
28 Dispensing Optics JANUARY 2016 MCAs a. any transposed prescription has a negative sphere Complete the sentence correctly. Most people do b. the positive cylinder axis is within 30 degrees of the vertical not wear spectacles until… c. there is no decentration a. they attend secondary school d. the cylindrical element is in excess of +1.00D b. their near point recedes d is the correct answer. If less than 1.00D the effect is c. they need to take a driving test negligible. d. patching becomes necessary b is the correct answer. Many people make their first Patients should not browse unattended at frame bars visit for an eye examination when they become presbyopic. because a. they may choose by price rather than style and fit What is a ‘tertiary’ colour? b. there is a health and safety risk a. An unsaturated primary colour c. the type of lenses and any lens extras should be discussed first b. A colour from a colour group not shown on a colour wheel d. the frames will be damaged by rough handling c. A mix of a primary and secondary colour c is the correct answer. The lens type, material, d. A mix of two secondary colours refractive index and any extras are likely to dictate which c is the correct answer. type and/or style of frame is most suitable – and those that are not even possible! A plastic bespoke frame is made for a child, but on collection, the frame is fitting too low, and the child is Spectacle-wearers with round-shaped faces should avoid looking through the very top of the lenses. Which frames… measurement is the most likely to have been ordered a. which appear square wrongly? b. where the face tends to look longer a. Crest height c. with pronounced angles especially on the temporal sides b. Bridge projection d. that are round c. Horizontal lens size d is the correct answer. Shape balancing is sometimes d. DBR at 15 below crest difficult to achieve but having the same shape frame as the a is the correct answer. The crest height determines the overall facial features simply accentuates the shape. vertical position of the frame on the face.
The management of the worried patient by Linda Rapley BSc (Hons) FCOptom PGCE PGDip
1. Complete the sentence correctly. The Amsler Chart c. Seeing a cobweb at the edge of the vision would be most appropriate to investigate a patient who d. Blurry vision that has been getting worse for several weeks is complaining of… c is the correct answer. A patient describing symptoms a. Double vision like a “cobweb” or “net curtain” in the periphery may have a b. Twitchy eyelids retinal detachment, and therefore requires ophthalmological c. Straight lines looking curved investigation as soon as possible. d. Sore eyes c is the correct answer. The Amsler Chart is used to 5. Which of the following symptoms is LEAST likely to investigate the central visual field and detect macular require an urgent referral? disturbances. Distortions of vision could be caused by a. Constant double vision that started a few hours ago macular disorders. b. An eye that is red and painful www.abdo.org.uk c. A lot of floaters that appeared after falling off a 2. The Amsler test should be performed: step-ladder a. With the patient wearing their reading glasses d. Seeing flickering ziz-zag lines for about half an hour b. Binocularly earlier today c. With the chart at 6m d is the correct answer. Flickering ziz-zag lines of short d. When the patient has a red eye duration suggests a migraine attack, which would not require a is the correct answer. The Amsler test is held at a urgent investigation. Recent onset diplopia could be caused distance of approximately 30cm and therefore a near vision by a stroke. Floaters that appeared after an accident may prescription is required, in the form of single vision lenses. indicate a retinal detachment. A painful red eye could be due to several conditions; most of these require prompt 3. The confrontation test is used to… investigation, as does a possible stroke or retinal detachment. a. Measure visual acuity b. Assess visual fields 6. Which symptom or sign indicates that further c. Examine the external eye investigation with perimetry may be useful? d. Find the patient’s prescription a. Sudden onset red eye b is the correct answer. The confrontation test can be b. Itchy eyes used to assess a patient’s visual field. c. Dark patches/shadows in the vision d. Feeling groggy or spaced out 4. Which of the following symptoms or signs is MOST c is the correct answer. Dark patches, shadows or likely to require an urgent referral? missing points in the patient’s vision can be an indication of a. Intermittent double vision pathology such as retinal detachment or haemorrhage b. A red eye that is not painful requiring further investigation with perimetry.
Dispensing Optics JANUARY 2016 29 MCAs An overview of paediatric dispensing Part 2: Communication and lenses by Andrew Cripps FBDO(Hons)
Six of the following questions were presented online to entrants to comply with the GOC’s best practice specifications for this type of CET
When fitting bifocals to hypermetropic children, a large Which of these statements is correct? flat top segment is preferable to an E-line because: a. The visual effects of myopia can be demonstrated by a. the blank sizes are smaller wearing minus lenses b. it will be thinner and lighter b. Amblyopia usually occurs before about eight years of age c. there will be no unwanted prismatic effect at the near c. Where a prescription is not sufficient to control an inward visual point squint the condition is called accommodative exotropia d. the segment will be on the back surface d. Polycarbonate material is the first choice for dispensing b is the correct answer. An E-line bifocal will have its hypermetropic prescriptions centre thickness determined by the reading prescription and b is the correct answer. Flickering ziz-zag lines of therefore be thicker and heavier. short duration suggests a migraine attack, which would not require urgent investigation. Recent onset diplopia Which of these statements concerning PD measurements could be caused by a stroke. Floaters that appeared after an is true? accident may indicate a retinal detachment. A painful red a. Right temporal canthus to left temporal canthus provides eye could be due to several conditions; most of these an alternative method if the subject is uncooperative require prompt investigation, as does a possible stroke or b. Right temporal iris-sclera margin to left nasal iris-sclera retinal detachment. margin gives a good indication of monocular PDs c. The 1/16th rule says that the subject’s PD is under- Which statement is incorrect? estimated by 0.5mm if the practitioner’s PD is 8mm larger a. The purpose of occlusion is to discourage use of the than the subjects amblyopic eye. d. Right temporal pupil-iris margin to left nasal pupil-iris b. The facial characteristics of children with Down’s margin is only suitable for binocular measurements syndrome tend not to change as they become teenagers d is the correct answer. This method is not applicable c. Sometimes it may be possible to achieve and maintain to monocular PDs as one would be too large and the other binocular fixation simply by correcting the ametropia. too small. d. If strabismus is not treated at an early age, binocular vision may be prevented in later life If the pantoscopic angle for a correctly fitting children’s a is the correct answer. Patching the good eye frame is zero the optical centre should be placed: encourages the amblyopic eye. a. coincident with the pupil centre b. on HCL One of the most effective ways of building practice c. at the standard optical centre position loyalty is: d. without any decentration a. Blanket advertising in the local press a is the correct answer. If the pantoscopic angle is zero b. Recommendation by ‘word-of-mouth’ the vertical decentration must also be zero. c. Special offers d. Having a separate children’s play area Which statement is true regarding the thickness of spectacle lenses? b is the correct answer. And there is no cost element. a. Downward decentration of a negative lens will increase the edge thickness at the bottom The examination for which of the following conditions is b. If a negative lens is not decentred the uncut size will likely to be a priority for pre-school children? dictate the edge thickness of the finished lens a. Amblyopia c. The boxed centre will be the thickest part of a positive lens b. Myopia d. Inward decentration will decrease the temporal edge c. Astigmatism thickness of a positive lens d. Hypermetropia
d is the correct answer. This is because the thickest part a is the correct answer. The other conditions are given to go letter, CET result your or save print download, To of the lens, the optical centre, is moved nasalward. priority after the age of about seven years. www.abdo.org.uk. Log-in and go to 'View your CET record'. your to 'View and go Log-in www.abdo.org.uk.
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30 Dispensing Optics JANUARY 2016 MCAs Safe and sure care for vulnerable groups by Jane Cohen FBDO
Six of the following questions were presented online to entrants to comply with the GOC’s best practice specifications for this type of CET
What best defines a typical paediatric patient? adult or a child, and in particular one with special needs? a. A child that has sight impairment but no other physical or a. An optical practitioner should make decisions on behalf of mental disorders the patient b. Where there is no sign of deafness, autism, brain injury, b. The dispensing optician should always stand to one side of cerebral palsy, or epilepsy the patient c. One with hypermetropia or myopia of up to +/-5.00D, c. The patient’s carer or guardian should only be consulted which may or may not be combined with astigmatism where finances are concerned d. There is no satisfactory definition of a typical paediatric d. Communication skills are of paramount importance patient d is the correct answer. This applies equally to other d is the correct answer. It is likely that the optical, professionals involved, a carer/guardian/parent, and the physical and emotional requirements and characteristics of a patient. paediatric patient will be specific to the individual, so the word ‘typical’ does not apply. According to the Optical Confederation guidance, a member of staff who is suspicious that a child or Complete the sentence correctly. Responsibility for vulnerable adult may be suffering abuse should observe, safeguarding children and disabled young people discuss, act on, _____ and record all the circumstances. visiting an optical practice lies with: The word missing from this sentence is? a. a designated optometrist or dispensing optician currently a. Consolidate listed on the GOC Register b. Relate b. every member of the practice team c. Report c. all qualified and registered members of staff d. the individual’s guardian/carer or parent d. Confirm b is the correct answer. There should be a practice d is the correct answer. Confirmation of all the facts is policy document (or reference to a generic code of practise) required before the information is recorded. outlining the areas of safeguarding that is applicable to everyone. Application of the provisions of the Optical Confederation Guidance should help to prevent: Complete the sentence correctly. With respect to a. validation of public liability insurance children and vulnerable adults, the purpose of the b. vulnerable individuals being at risk of radicalisation Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check is to: c. inappropriate behaviour whilst attending paediatric a. find out if a prospective employee has unspent criminal patients and their guardians convictions d. inequality in service provision b. help prevent unsuitable people from working with a is the correct answer. Guidance should help to vulnerable groups prevent invalidation. www.abdo.org.uk c. refer doubtful job applicants to the Fitness to Practise Panel d. uncover signs or symptoms of suspected abuse Vulnerable adults and children who also have physical b is the correct answer. Initially known as the Criminal disabilities often exhibit which one of the following: Records Bureau (CRB) check, it helps employers make a. a narrow head width and very short length to bend appropriate recruitment decisions. b. unequal vertex distances c. a wide temple and head width with very long length Which statement relating to the Optical Confederation to bend Guidance is untrue? d. unusually high crest heights a. Practice staff have a professional and moral duty to act as b is the correct answer. This may be due to unilateral advocate for children and vulnerable people exophthalmus. b. The practice manager (or other suitable professional) should be appointed as the responsible person within the practice to whom members of staff should refer Safeguarding rights for vulnerable adults are described c. All observations, advice sought, received and actions taken in: must be recorded in the patient’s optical record a. the Care Act d. All optometrists, contact lens and dispensing opticians b. the Mental Health Capacity Act should complete safeguarding training c. the Disability Discrimination Act c is the correct answer. This information must be d. the Opticians Act recorded separately from any optical record. a is the correct answer. This came into effect in 2014 and clarified existing legislation emphasising Safeguarding as Which statement is true when attending a vulnerable a principle.
Dispensing Optics JANUARY 2016 31 IN Have we got the balance right when PRACTICE it comes to gender in optics? asks Antonia Chitty
Gender in optics
here are more women become may have family to support and are dispensing opticians now than expected to be the main source of income.” ever before. Ros Kirk was the He uses a personal example to back this first female president of ABDO up: “I could stack shelves in a warehouse for in 1989, and this year will see £18k a year, I could labour on a building FionaT Anderson take on the role. site for £25k with zero qualifications. Statistics show that whereas men Compare this to the fact that some dominate the profession nearing students are being offered £16k-£18k after retirement, the number of young men completing a three-year honours degree. I entering the profession is decreasing year think this is where a lot of men become on year. Read on to find out more about disillusioned. Under sponsorship deals for why this might be happening and how it DO training, you could be tied in to a low could affect the future of optics. a couple of questions: why is this happening, salary contract for two to five years. Other There are 5,195 women members of and what are the long-term implications? areas of employment pay equal or more ABDO, and 3,506 men. If you look at those money with less training and dedication.” under 30 at the time of writing, there are EXTERNAL FORCES AND CHOICES Laura Hing of Stephen Hing Opticians, 1,446 female members and 713 male, Jennifer Brower was ABDO president from Shefford, has this to say: “The profession whereas if you look at those aged 50-65 2010 to 2013. She says: “When I started as seems to have become more healthcare there are 1,104 men and 925 women, a dispensing optician there were a lot more based and these professions are notorious demonstrating the dramatic shift that has men, both as DOs and optometrists. In my for having a higher female uptake. Women taken place over the last 30 years. opinion, optics is a career that lends itself no longer view a career as the time before Student numbers at ABDO College gives to part-time work and career breaks, which babies come along. If it takes until the age further cause for concern: male students has encouraged women to train. Salary levels of 25 to qualify then that’s fine. I love being have fallen from 38 per cent in 2013, to 35 aren’t hugely good for dispensing opticians. in optics as I have managed to leave to per cent in 2014, to 32 per cent in 2015 – I don’t think a man should earn more than have two babies and return to my job and this figure is similar across the industry. a woman, but when choosing a career, men without any retraining or demotion. It has At Vision Express, for example, just 29 per may have higher salary expectations sociable hours and offers me a good cent of trainee DOs are male. This provokes whereas women may prioritise flexibility.” home/work balance,” adds Laura. Looking back at her time in the Senior lecturer and DO Anthony profession, Jennifer says: “Compared to Blackman spoke to students at ABDO when I started, there is more part-time College, and he found that: “Being a DO or work and more locum work; when I started CLO is attractive to females as it is a role there were no optical assistants. The which easily offers part-time employment, optometrist would work on their own, the with flexible working days and hours, and receptionist might show some frames and there are positions all over the country. the optometrist would then take the When you finish work for the day you leave measurements. Dispensing was very different.” it all at the door, so there is no ABDO president Peter Black says: encroachment on home life. You can take “Salary is a real concern. Train drivers can breaks to have children and return to being earn 50-60k and their salaries go up every a DO/CLO, provided you keep up with CET. year, while DO salaries have remained on Also, you tend to work as a team and social the national average.” A recently qualified interaction has been shown as being male Scottish graduate backs up these important for many people.” concerns. He says: “Coming from a male perspective, some men may feel the post- GENDER SHIFT IN PERSPECTIVE qualification salary is too low in correlation Is optics a technical career or a healthcare Fiona Anderson to the workload of the course; where they one? It is about the science of the lens or
32 Dispensing Optics JANUARY 2016 the face-to-face interaction with people? says: “In a lot of ways gender doesn’t come Most DOs will have skills in both fields and into it. As a former teacher, I’m a great we need this to continue. To put the gender believer in education. It helps the public shift within optics in context: the profile and how people perceive dispensing proportion of male GPs dropped from opticians. Degree level and postgraduate around 65 per cent to 55 per cent between education puts us on a par with other para 2005 and 2014, according to statistics from medical professions. the General Medical Council. “There are now so many optical ABDO vice president, Fiona Anderson, assistants who take access courses, those believes that optics appeals to women who don’t know about optical careers when because it is a caring profession. She explains: they start as a receptionist but become “The study modalities are flexible, there are interested, all these people who work their career breaks and flexible working too. On way up, enjoying the work, on a marvellous the other hand, it is now a degree profession career ladder,” Jennifer continues. “That’s and there are plenty of technical aspects, so brought a lot of very able people into the I would hope that it might appeal to the profession. I would always urge someone to stereotypical idea of what interests men. get involved – if they like the work, make One feeling I have is that we don’t see as Anthony Blackman the effort and train to become a DO. It’s many men coming through to train as DOs only when you start studying that you who have started in manufacturing, which of male DOs, I think there has to be realise how much you don’t know.” could be an area for investigation.” progression within roles, whether it’s Peter Black suggests that recruitment According to the Optical Workforce delegated refraction or minor ailment processes also need looking at. “A large Survey 2015, the majority of DOs are still triaging. There has to be more significant number of people who are recruited into the employed full-time, decreasing concerns benefits there in light of MSc/PhD courses, DO profession start as optical assistants or that the change in gender balance may lead after all, what’s the point of becoming a receptionists, where again the bias is towards to more part-time workers. Jennifer says: “If doctor in dispensing optics when you are more women,” he says. “I’d suggest that by you want to be a locum or work part-time regulated the same as any other DO? creating an external advert for a trainee DO, this can suit a practice. We have a part-time “I decided against an MSc in Primary particularly around A-level results time, you optometrist and a locum, which works well Care Ophthalmology because I was more or would get a better mix of applicants. We for the staff and employers. This allows less told there’s no point unless you're an need to do a better job of promoting the people to run clinics when needed.” Fiona optometrist. From that perspective I could ‘earn while you learn’ message too. adds: “Potentially, as in this day and age be a statistic of consequence just the same. “The flexibility offered by optics is women are still primary carers, the female Unless this changes, I think the numbers something else to promote that can appeal bias could lead to issues, particularly for will drop further as skilled colleagues will to men and women, whether they are small practices with a sole DO.” ignore dispensing optics and skip to carers, volunteers or working on another The Scottish graduate says: “I think management or move into fields where the interest in their spare time. With the degree young men should be as attracted to salary will be greater.” and postgraduate qualifications, optics now dispensing optics and ophthalmic science as So maybe the shift in gender isn’t has all the steps in the career ladder, which young women; the profession has to move something that can be solved without an should increase the all-round appeal to the forward to meet the ambitions of a new increase in salaries and status that would best people, whether they be men or generation. To encourage a new generation benefit the profession as a whole. Jennifer women,” Peter concludes.
‘Manning up’ my role as a DO…
“Being a DO is not a very ‘manly’ job,” says “I recall many moons ago someone Daeron McGee of Sussex Eyecare. “It bringing in a frame for a minor adjustment, requires people skills and the ability to with the parting shot, ‘Be careful with it!’ – listen. It requires invasion of another as though I spend all my time deliberately person’s space, and an eye for style. I make breaking people’s frames. When I went out my role more ‘manly’ by the unnecessary the back to do the repair, which took only use of power tools to make minor seconds, I noticed a metal bucket with a adjustments to frames, lots of nerdy high trowel in it. I then spent several seconds tech gadgets when a ruler will do, and use smashing the trowel against the bucket very three-screen workstations when a pad of loudly, then sauntered out to hand the frame paper would suffice. I also make sure I back to the now ashen, open-mouthed lady. refer to cars, football and firearms in Big smile: ‘All done’ says I. A lovely moment – casual conversation. for me…”
Dispensing Optics JANUARY 2016 33 REPORT There was lively debate at the latest ABDO Consultation Day with the Areas, as members discussed proposed changes to the existing ABDO Area structure Lively debate at Area Day
eld at the offices of the support for the proposals – albeit with Association of Optometrists some areas of concern to be addressed. (AOP) in East London on 18 November, the day ACTIVITIES AND ACHIEVEMENTS commenced with a welcome ABDO head of CET, Paula Stevens, then reportH from ABDO president, Peter Black. provided a CET update, noting that the He had attended several Area meetings GOC had developed a new Core Competency, to talk about minor eye conditions and paralleling its new Standards of Practice, the potential opportunities for dispensing Members discuss proposed and replacing the competency of Professional opticians, with appropriate training, to new Area structures Conduct. She highlighted that as the new become triage practitioners in their own standards required dispensing opticians to practices. reported on the establishment of a working undergo child safeguarding training, ABDO The president also reported on the work group to put forward proposals for a more had produced its own online training, to be of the General Optical Council (GOC) steering structured strategic approach within the launched mid-January. group tasked with addressing the illegal organisation. Barry Duncan, ABDO head of Regional CET coordinator, Joanne supply of contact lenses. He had hoped the policy and development, outlined the Abbott, then announced that there had been voluntary code of conduct proposed by the processes so far as approved by the board. liaison with 13 different Areas over the year, group would facilitate the validation He explained that the overarching strategic 16 additional central sponsors had been process for specifications, but this was not objective was to provide longevity to both recruited, 48 different events had been held, the case, and he felt that the code in its ABDO and the dispensing profession by offering 2,500 delegate spaces and 28,000 current form would be ineffective. actively engaging in political activity, CET points at regional events alone. A total Having attended an ECOO meeting in nationally and locally, on a greater scale. of 42,000 points had been available over the Brussels, Peter informed members that the In order to achieve this objective, Barry year. For 2016, 38 events had already been EU was currently scrutinising the professions said, the working group had felt it essential arranged with 10 sponsors secured. of dispensing opticians and optometrists as to restructure the current Areas and review Next ABDO course coordinator for the part of its drive to introduce harmonisation some of ABDO’s committees. Current Area Optical Support Programme, Debbie Giggs, of standards across all professions. At the activities focused mainly on CET and had gave an update on the development of the National Optical Conference in November, the advantage of local input. The working Worshipful Company of Spectacle Makers concerns had been raised about the group had felt, however, that the current qualifications. The new examinations would introduction of enhanced services that approach was not sustainable for the be held in June 2016, and she was also now excluded practitioners already providing future, and that every opportunity had to developing a six-month course to allow these, because the commissioning process be taken to advance the profession by qualified and registered dispensing had failed to take account of current greater engagement with the membership opticians to fast track to the SMC Technical providers’ skills and training. The president and improvement in communications. qualification. urged members to get involved at LOC level Barry explained that restructuring would Michael Potter, ABDO head of marketing and in any activity where dispensing enable ABDO to be more effective locally and communications, then reported on opticians were competent to participate. and nationally in a wide range of areas, such ABDO’s work with ITN Productions. Next as involvement in commissioning and service Antonia Chitty, ABDO social media consultant, PROPOSED ENHANCED ROLES delivery, achievement of recognition by the noted that many new topics were now ABDO general secretary, Tony Garrett, then Department of Health, and provision of covered in the FAQs section of the website specialist services. Based on these with images and infographics. Contacts by the considerations, and taking account of NHS public had increased, and ABDO now had regions, the working group had put forward 1,587 Twitter followers and 2,300 Facebook a set of proposals, as outlined in the fans as of November. There had been 597 December issue of Dispensing Optics. member Likes on Facebook since June and A consultation with current Areas was 1,518 member followers on Twitter. to take place in January, with recruitment The day concluded with reports from the and appointments to be made in the Area representatives who attended, about spring/summer. The plan would then be to their activities and meetings, and the issue implement the new ABDO regions in of how to combat the problem of ‘no shows’ Barry Duncan outlines ABDO’s new January 2017. In the subsequent discussion was discussed. The date of the next Area strategic direction groups’ feedback, there was considerable Day will be announced in due course.
34 Dispensing Optics JANUARY 2016 CLASS OF A pilgrimage to Canterbury Cathedral, from as far afield as New 2015 Zealand for some, signified the start of an exciting career ahead for the newest cohort of graduates to enter the profession
“Keep learning, stay young”
elping people to see better Addressing the gathering, Peter was one of the most suggested that having come this far, it was valuable gifts that now time for graduands to reflect and be dispensing opticians could thankful for the help they had received give to their patients, said along the way – and to keep on learning HWorshipful Company of Spectacle Makers through experience and continuing (WCSM) Master, Edward Middleton, as he education and training. To bring home his addressed graduands at the 2015 ABDO point, Peter quoted American industrialist, Graduation and Prize Giving Ceremony Henry Ford, who said: ‘Anyone who held on the evening of Wednesday 25 stops learning is old, whether at 20 or 80. November. Anyone who keeps learning stays young. Taking place, as tradition dictates, in The greatest thing in life is to keep your Canterbury Cathedral, one of the oldest and mind young’. Waiting to enter the cathedral most famous Christian structures in “You now have the secret of eternal England and part of a World Heritage Site, youth,” Peter said. “You will continue to DIPLOMAS AND PRIZES the ceremony also saw ABDO president, learn through experience – that means As the conferral of awards and prizes Peter Black, present Diplomas in mistakes – and through means sanctioned commenced, the graduands lined up to Ophthalmic Dispensing, along with by law – continuing education and training. accept their diplomas from the president, Diplomas in Ophthalmic Dispensing Don’t gripe that we don’t get Department and receive the ceremonial handshake to Overseas, Certificates in Contact lens of Health [DH] funding for CET – embrace it leave as graduates. Mark Chandler, ABDO’s Practice and Diplomas in the Assessment for what it is – a fabulous opportunity to head of examinations and registration, and Management of Low Vision and improve our practice and be of better called the names of graduands present who Spectacle Lens Design. service to our patients. In time we will stepped forward to the president in turn. prove to the DH that we are worthy The awards were conferred by ceremonial healthcare professionals who deserve some handshake. The awarding of prizes then assistance because we have changed, as a followed. result of CET, for the better.” • FBDO – Diploma in Ophthalmic The continuation of learning and Dispensing (217) training was also at the heart of a message • FBDO OS – Diploma in Ophthalmic from WCSM Master Edward Middleton, who Dispensing Overseas – Greece (2) said: “Training doesn’t have to stop here. • FBDO OS – Diploma in Ophthalmic You now have an excellent qualification, Dispensing Overseas – India (5) and how you develop your career is up to • FBDO OS – Diploma in Ophthalmic you. Keep your eyes open to the Dispensing Overseas – Ireland (4) opportunities available to develop your • FBDO OS – Diploma in Ophthalmic skills in helping people to see better.” Dispensing Overseas – Malaysia (52) On congratulating the graduands on • FBDO OS – Diploma in Ophthalmic their achievements, Mr Middleton also Dispensing Overseas – New Zealand (2) encouraged them to join the WCSM and • FBDO R OS – Refraction Diploma help the Company, in partnership with Overseas (5) ABDO College, to continue to set • FBDO CL – Certificate in Contact Lens benchmark standards for knowledge and Practice (25) skills. Indeed, “the knowledge inside my • FBDO (Hons) CL – Diploma in Advanced head” was the lynchpin on which qualified Contact lens Practice (1) dispensing opticians should distinguish • FBDO (Hons) LVA – Diploma in the World Heritage site setting for another themselves, suggested Peter, who offered Assessment and Management of Low memorable occasion his heartfelt congratulations to all. Vision (1)
Dispensing Optics JANUARY 2016 35 Graduation and Prize Giving
Line-up of dignitaries and VIP guests
ESSILOR PRIZE Awarded to Hollie McIntyre for the highest mark in the combined Preliminary Qualifying Examination
STEPPER PRIZE Awarded to Alexander Howe for the highest mark in the Preliminary Qualifying Practical Examination Making some last minute adjustments JW GRIEVE PRIZE Awarded to Adam Small for the highest mark in section C of the Final Qualifying Practical Examination
TONY GRIFFITHS PRIZE FOR EXCELLENCE Awarded to Alexander Mitchell for the highest mark in section B of the Final Practical Examination ABDO president, Peter Black, provides some encouraging words for graduands NATIONAL EYECARE GROUP OPTINET PRIZE Awarded to Sabrina Mattison for the best presented Pre-Qualification Portfolio in the Final Qualifying Examination
CARL ZEISS VISION PRIZE Awarded to Beth McWilliams for the top distance learning course student WCSM Master, Edward Middleton, suggests graduands set their sights WORSHIPFUL COMPANY OF SPECTACLE MAKERS PRIZE on future training opportunities Awarded to Peter Overton for the highest mark in the Final Qualifying Practical Examination
FEDERATION OF MANUFACTURING OPTICIANS DEREK MCLAREN MEMORIAL PRIZE Awarded to Sabrina Mattison for the highest UK student mark in the Final Qualifying Examination
SUE SOUTHGATE PRIZE An evening to remember Awarded to Peter Overton for the highest mark in section E of the Final Qualifying Practical Examination
ASSOCIATION OF OPTOMETRISTS PRIZE Awarded to Nicola Pearson for the highest mark in section A of the Final Qualifying Practical Examination
RODENSTOCK PRIZE A thumbs up for friends from Awarded to Mubeen Ugharadar for the highest mark in section D of the one new graduate Final Qualifying Practical Examination
36 Dispensing Optics JANUARY 2016 Striking a group pose to mark the occasion The 2015 prize winners who attended
FEDERATION OF (OPHTHALMIC AND DISPENSING) OPTICIANS PRIZE Awarded to Janet Chambers for the top day release course student
MAPO MALAYSIAN PRIZE Awarded to Wong Pui Kheng for the highest international student mark in the Final Qualifying Examination
Support and cheers from families ASSOCIATION OF CONTACT LENS MANUFACTURERS PRIZE and friends Awarded to Laura Dayes for the highest mark in sections 2, 3 & 4 in the Practical Examination, Certificate in Contact Lens Practice
BRITISH CONTACT LENS ASSOCIATION PRIZE Awarded to Anna Foden for the highest mark in the Aftercare section of the Practical Examination, Certificate in Contact Lens Practice
ALCON PRIZE FOR EXCELLENCE Dignitaries applaud the new graduates Awarded to Suzanne Rose for the highest mark in the Practical Examination, Certificate in Contact Lens Practice
BAILEY PRIZE Awarded to Suzanne Rose for the highest full pass, at the first attempt, in the combined Theory and Practical Examinations, Certificate in Contact Lens Practice All smiles for a moment to treasure JOHNSON & JOHNSON VISION CARE EXCELLENCE AWARD Awarded to Alice Barnes for the highest aggregate mark in the Theory Examination, Certificate in Contact Lens Practice
TED WATTS MEMORIAL PRIZE Awarded to Shamiala Chaudhri for the highest mark in the LVA Examination
ELVIN MONTLAKE PRIZE Awarded to Helene Griffiths for the highest combined mark in the LV Sue Rose receives the Bailey Prize Honours Theory Examination
CONTAMAC PRIZE Awarded to Anne Edwards as the bets student on the contact lens distance learning course
ABDO ADVANCED CONTACT LENS PRACTICE PRIZE Awarded to Keith Williams for attaining the Diploma in Advanced Contact Time for a selfie before heading out to celebrate lens Practice
Dispensing Optics JANUARY 2016 37 PREVIEW A host of fresh and innovative products will be on show at 100% Optical in London next month Showcase snapshot
he third edition of 100% FC Barcelona forward. One of the flagship Optical, which takes place styles of the Police 2016 sun collection is from 6-8 February at London model SPL152, a metal and acetate double- ExCel, will feature big bridge frame featuring a special 2D fabric- production catwalk shows like design on the front piece. withT dancers and models every day fan- The Eyewear Company will present faring the latest in eyewear fashion. ranges from Vanni and Derapage. Vanni’s A new wave of exhibitors will take part new Sur-fing range boasts a spray-paint in this year’s show including eyewear effect on a plain base sprayed in contrasting manufacturers Rhein Vision SRL, colours. The Derapage MoleCube acetate International Eyewear and Fabris Lane styles are embellished with solid coloured alongside Leightons Opticians, EyePlan and acetate inlays along the upper edge of the independent eye hospital, My-iClinic. front. Look out for the M49 version, a Tomato Glasses UK will also make its first patented acetate created entirely from appearance with its multi-award winning biodegradable substances giving a richly frames for babies and young children, striped frame in shades of blue, red, amber The Cosmopolitan collection designed in South Korea by a father for his and green against a transparent base. from Concept Eyewear son. We preview a mere snapshot of A young brand specialising in the products waiting in the wings… production of conceptual sunglasses spectacle frames by sliding the charms on inspired by Japanese culture, Fakoshima and off the arms. Blinx is designed to EYEWEAR ELABORATIONS will present its limited edition sunglasses encourage repeat visits as children return to Adidas Eyewear will showcase its new collection – Black Mantis. Inspired by the practice to purchase additional charms Wildcharge and Whipstart sports styles, insects or creatures from old sci-fi movies from the range, plus the chance to brighten which come with mirrored lenses in select Alien and Predator, the models are based on up window displays and children’s areas. colours for excellent light absorption and feminine cat-eye sunglasses and transformed Charmant will reveal the new Elle contrasting style. Lens tint options utilise into aggressive unisex shades. Black, of course, collection, which draws its inspiration from Adidas Eyewear’s proprietary Light Stabilising is the primary colour of the collection. the purity of minimalism and fluid forms Technology in active silver to harmonise currently dominating the Paris catwalks. light fluctuations. The sports-inspired Frames feature clean, flowing lines in a models include ribbed grip temples, state- melange of colours combined with traces of of-the-art pads for adjustable fit and quick- gold and silver for added sophistication. release temples that pop apart on impact. Selected extraordinary lightweight styles Italian company Ape & Partners will within the collection are designed to offer showcase its new Parajumpers by Coppe-Sid exceptional wearing comfort. range. All sunglasses in the collection are Concept Eyewear will launch the provided with semi-hard, non-bulky cases, a Cosmopolitan range for young women lens cleaning cloth and the original PJS combining functionality with fashion and Parajumpers Certificate of Authenticity. styles inspired by the latest catwalk trends. Blinx will introduce its ‘cool and Each frame is named after a woman of style collectable’ range of spectacle accessories and substance – from the bold, for children. The colourful, soft silicone sophisticated silhouette of the ‘Angelina’ to charms allow children to customise the fun, feminine look of the ‘Danni’. Colours include matte gold, oxblood red, pink and black as well as lace, tortoiseshell and patterned frames. Glitter, matt and gloss finishes add sparkle and polish. De Rigo will present its Police 2016 eyewear campaign fronted by ambassador De Rigo will unveil its Charm young patients with Blinx accessories Neymar Jr, the famous Brazilian striker and 2016 Police campaign
38 Dispensing Optics JANUARY 2016 Check out Recon Jet smart French fancies for kids by Minima glasses at Waterside
London will be calling again Minima of France will introduce its new prescription, the simulator visualises the for William Morris Junior Hybrid collection, which meets all optical effects of various lens designs and the requirements of safety and comfort for Visitors will be keen for a first-look at treatments, helping the patient to choose little ones. The lack of hinges ensures the William Morris London range for the ones that will work best for them. maximum flexibility of the temples and winter 2015/16, including the company’s Mainline Optical Connections will be materials have been chosen to guarantee luxury line: William Morris Black Label. featuring its popular Chemistrie magnetic stability, reliability and the wellbeing of Every style in this range is engineered using lens layering system. This bespoke option young wearers. Inspired by the adult the highest quality Mazzucchelli acetates, can be added to virtually any frame or lens collection, the kids’ models are tagged as weighted tip ends and stainless steel type at the point of sale or retrospectively. ‘modern, fun and colourful – and perfect for German OBE hinges. The lens layering system offers 24 colours, three to eight-year olds’. reader lenses and blue light blocking lenses. Leading New York fashion designer LENSES, GIZMOS AND GADGETS Mainline will have a limited number of sample Derek Lam will launch his new eyewear Associated Optical will be showcasing the Chemistrie systems to make up at the show. collection with Modo. Colourways inspired second-generation Eschenbach smartLUX Rodenstock has enhanced its popular by architecture feature a mixture of stone, digital magnifier. Using only three buttons, single vision lens, MonoPlus 2, with a P0.8 classic tortoise and soft feminine colours, its intuitive design allows the user to select version to complement the existing P0.5 as well as playful options. The optical from four magnifications (5x, 7x, 9x or 12x), version and will be showcasing this in collection includes seven new styles, cycle through five different viewing modes London. Rodenstock MonoPlus 2 lenses including an over-sized, eye-catching shape, and capture and store up to 20 images. The provide accommodative assistance for pre and a unique round frame with a browbar. smartLUX DIGITAL features a 5” anti- presbyopes, resulting in relaxed, fatigue-free The sun collection includes six new styles reflective screen and weighs only 220g. vision at near for the multimedia lifestyle, that showcase the boldness of Derek Lam. For contact lens practitioners travelling says the company. Danish designers at Nine Eyewear will to London, Bausch + Lomb will be on hand Scope Ophthalmics, a leading player in reveal their third collection, which pays to discuss its Biotrue ONEday for the UK ocular surface disease market, has tribute to classic eyewear fashion and Presbyopia range for more established partnered with TearLab to commercialise Nine’s first collection not made entirely out presbyopes. The contact lens, which the first objective and quantitative of titanium. Using transparent polyamide, features a 3-Zone Progressive Design diagnostic device for dry eye disease. The Nine 3rd offers an ultra-light and flexible Technology to deliver near, intermediate TearLab Osmolarity System allows frame weighing less than nine grams, and and distant vision, was previously available practitioners to measure the osmolarity of features a specially developed nose pad in a low add. However, the new range human tears, helping to diagnose and system for a perfect fit and optimal provides a solution for established and manage patients suspected of having dry comfort. progressive presbyopes with a prescription eye disease. Tearlab is described as easy to OKO by OKO Paris will unveil its new ranging from +1.75D. use and takes a tiny amount of tears to CAC sunglass collection for men and Hoya will be bringing accurate 3D diagnose; visitors to the show will be able women. The collection is ultra-thin and vision simulation to 100% Optical with its to discover its full benefits. ultra-light; the outside frame is made of latest innovation: the Hoya Vision Visitors to the Waterside Labs stand acetate and the skull of the frame, which is Simulator, which offers wearers the ability will be able to check out Recon Jet and visible in transparency, is made of surgical to ‘try before they buy’. Using the wearer’s other smart glasses, thanks to the steel with crossing rivets giving it a mono- company’s status as a Rochester Optical bloc character. Authorised European Reseller. Following the official launch of the Rx insert for Recon Jet, the company now offers prescription inserts and lenses for these ‘smart’ sports glasses – adding to its growing portfolio of patented prescription Smart Gold lens designs, frames and accessories for the most advanced smart glasses on the market.
For the latest show news, programme, New generation magnifiers exhibitor list and to register, visit Derek Lam for Modo sunwear by Associated Optical www.100percentoptical.com
Dispensing Optics JANUARY 2016 39 JOTTINGS As DOs we all have a role to play in public health, writes Lesley Parkinson
On course to play my part
ometimes our working life as dispensing session used case studies to consider why patients don’t opticians (DOs) is so busy that we do not have take up their entitlement to free sight tests, particularly the time to look at our role within the bigger young and the old, why glaucoma patients don’t use their picture – that is, public health. I recently had drops, and why diabetics don’t attend screenings. an opportunity to put this right by attending Other sessions covered epidemiology, health anS Ophthalmic Public Health (OPH) Short Course at information and data sources, evaluation and evidence- Leeds University. based healthcare, health needs assessment and health My personal reason for wanting to attend this particular equality audit, care services, screening and surveillance for course was that as well as being a contact lens optician eye disease and leadership. (CLO), I have an interest in how society perceives science Greg Fell, a consultant in public health at Bradford and technology, having completed an MA Society, Science Metropolitan District Council, led the session on health and Technology in Europe nearly 20 years ago. economics, commissioning and priorisation of healthcare. Professor Darren Shickle, professor of public health and He introduced us to clinical commissioning groups (CCGs), head of the Academic Unit of Public Health at the Leeds their roles, governance and the laws within which they have Institute of Health Sciences, set up the course in 2009 in to operate. conjunction with Leeds-based ophthalmologist, Andy Cassels-Brown. Their aim in establishing the course was to PRIORITISING RESOURCES raise the awareness of ophthalmic health backed up with With an ever-ageing population and increasing competition evidence-based research. for resources due to the new CCGs, ‘eyecare’ has to compete The course consists of four intensive days of lectures, with all the other services that CCGs can commission. To workshops and discussions, culminating in a small group help compare all the options, it is useful to present a presentation on the final day to the other attendees to healthcare audit, which aims to improve the population’s practise new skills and obtain feedback. Anyone from a health and prioritise resources, to support your case. clinical background related to eye health and The project my group worked on over the four days ophthalmology anywhere in the world could apply to considered if there was evidence to support the commissioning attend this course. Students on my course came from of vision screening for children and, if so, at what age, where England, Scotland and Africa. Ophthalmologists were the and by whom. This topic was chosen after considering the largest group in attendance followed by optometrists. ‘UK Vision Strategy: case for change. London: RNIB, 2013, I was the only DO in my cohort although previously Outcome priority actions’. there have been several in attendance. The RNIB also had a We began by doing a health equality audit, part of which delegate. For General Optical Council (GOC) registered was to identify stakeholders, goals, resources and risks. Data opticians, CET points were available for some sessions. In had to be collected to support our view and identify the September, there were about 10 of us present but at other health priority. The project had to be evaluated so it was times, up to 40 people have attended. important to have only one aim per project, although it could take several objectives to reach the final aim. NOT A NEW ISSUE What I learnt overall is that public health is a vast topic As DOs we all have a role to play in public health, as all covering many diverse subjects such as health improvement, health professionals are public health practitioners. Public health protection, monitoring and establishing screening health is not new – even Hippocrates was aware of some of provision. As DOs we need to work within these frameworks the issues. Many of the great thinkers throughout history if we want to be full members of the primary care team. have associated disease with poverty and this, in part, led This course introduced me to the frameworks, possible to the 1848 Public Health Act in the UK. The link between sources of evidence and gave me an opportunity to use poverty and disease still exists: “People on low incomes are some of them on a small-scale student project. at greater risk of sight loss as a result of lower uptake of There are many resources to help us build up our skills screening, referral and treatment” (Johnson et al, 2011). in public health, from this course to a Masters degree to The course format consisted of a lecture on public health Local Optical Committee Support Unit training. I am theory and its principles, followed by a session on how to looking forward to using my new knowledge to promote the apply these to the ophthalmic scenario. The introduction, ophthalmic public health agenda. ‘What is public health?’, looked at the history and theories of public health. This was followed by ‘Ophthalmic health LESLEY PARKINSON FBDO CL AOD (HONS) is a locum promotion’ and then an even more relevant session on, contact lens optician. She is also an ABDO College DLI ‘Applying health promotion theory to eye health’. This tutor and an Area 5 committee member.
40 Dispensing Optics JANUARY 2016 Frequently asked questions answered by Kim Devlin FBDO (Hons) CL
TESTING VISUAL FIELDS Not so apparently; the instrument is designed to ‘trick’ the eyes into believing the object is in the distance – rather like The query this month is an interesting one: a member the test chart reflected in the mirror. asked about a situation she had encountered with a There may be a problem with thick, heavy spectacle patient. The patient was a glaucoma sufferer and, as a frames or high plus lenses but the manufacturer’s claim driver, needed to pass the DVLA visual fields test. What that repeated tests, accepting the best result, overcomes prescription should they be wearing to maximise their any potential loss of field. It might be a good idea to fit field of view? An interesting one I thought. contact lenses for the field test as some institutions In all honesty, it was a situation I had never thought recommend; although that’s not always practical with some Kim Devlin about before; I simply followed the instrument elderly patients. is chair of manufacturer’s instruction book, but on reflection I shared our member’s concern. So it appears our member’s concern, while ABDO’s Patients are recommended to wear ‘the spectacles you understandable, was groundless. Patients who have been Advice and asked to attend for a DVLA field test must, of course, be drive in’ for the test but such patients are naturally anxious Guidelines anxious and have real worries. It is the job of the DO or to perform as best they can and it is a reasonable request Working to ask if a special prescription might help them achieve a optometrist to reassure such patients that their vision and Group higher standard in a visual field test. field of vision is adequate for driving – wearing their most There are several different instruments in use across the up-to-date spectacles. The formal field test should then country; the instructions for use might vary slightly but hold no fears if correctly performed. they all stipulate using the distance correction, bifocal or It is the borderline patients who may well need extra multifocal lenses are not contraindicated. reassurance as to how the test works and be told that the The confusion arises because the targets being viewed best result of several attempts will be taken. A relaxed and are near, and small, so surely a close work lens would help? confident patient is more likely to pass such a test. Past FAQs are available for reference on the ABDO website at http://www.abdo.org.uk/frequently-asked-questions
CRICKHOWELL PRACTICE GOES OFFSHORE FOR TV DOC A practice in the town of Crickhowell, Wales, will feature in The Town That Went Offshore this month, part of BBC Two’s Britain’s Black Economy season exploring tax loopholes. Irena Kovaleva, who established Crickhowell Optometrists five years ago, told Dispensing Optics: “The question the show addresses is, ‘Are we all living by the same rules when it comes to tax?’ I thought it was a great idea. We all know that the big companies pay very little tax, so we wanted to find out how they do it. Crickhowell is unique in how few multiples are in the town, and I think Irena Kovaleva outside her Crickhowell practice that’s why the BBC chose us.” Britain’s black economy is said to be worth more than The show unravels the complex tax operations of some £150bn a year – 10 per cent of the total GDP. The Britain’s of the biggest companies in the UK and finds out if it’s Black Economy season examines how its tentacles spread possible for local businesses in a small town in Wales to from the top to the bottom of British society. “We don’t turn the tables by setting up their own similar arrangements. know how the series will end but we do hope that it offers Irena’s investigative journey took her and her fellow business an incentive to the government to close loopholes,” owners to the Isle of Man and Amsterdam. continued Irena. “We also hope that small businesses in She explained: “Crickhowell Optometrists started from coalition can become more tax efficient using strategies scratch. We are one of many small businesses in from the big companies. Crickhowell High Street, relying on visitors and local trade. “Overall it has been a very interesting journey and the We need to protect the High Street. We believe in paying support we have received has been amazing. We also did tax, we want to pay tax and we want big companies to pay discover the magic formula that allows big business to pay this too. We want everyone to pay a fair share. Billions of less tax, but you have to watch the programme to find out pounds are lost when big businesses don’t pay tax, and I’d what it is. We hope the show will air at the end of January, like to ask these companies to think about just how much just when individuals are all filling in their own tax returns,” treatment their missed taxes could provide via the NHS.” Irena added.
Dispensing Optics JANUARY 2016 41 Jobs & notices
CONTACT LENS OPTICIAN/ TRAINEE CONTACT LENS OPTICIAN ABDO NEWPORT, SOUTH WALES College Trustees COLLEGE Due to an expanding contact lens business, we are looking for a passionate professional who is seeking the opportunity to advance their career. ABDO College Trustees serve for a maximum As a Contact Lens Optician, there’s nothing quite like the feeling of being part of two four year terms (8 years in total). of our friendly team. And in our store in Newport, you’ll be part of a family Two Trustees will be retiring over the that works together to give every customer the best possible service. In effect, you’ll be our resident expert, sharing your knowledge with coming months and therefore applications customers and staff alike, all while working alongside our dedicated for consideration as a Trustee are invited professionals, using the latest equipment. for suitably qualified Association members. Whatever your level of experience we can offer unstinting support, access to Ideally applicants should have demonstrated outstanding CET and exciting career development options. an interest in optical education and have For more information please contact: Andrew Bowers on Email: empathy with the Association and objectives [email protected] or Tel: 01633 284000 of the Trust and desire to further increase the growth of the College. Applications are particularly welcome from former students at Godmersham and who have gone on to establish a successful career. Applications containing a letter outlining your reason for applying, along with an up-to-date Optician Index - October 2015 summary CV should be address to Sir Anthony Garrett at ABDO College, Godmersham Park, • Total practice turnover two per cent lower than September Godmersham, Canterbury, Kent CT4 7DT and marked confidential. and last October at 163 Index points • Total number of eye examinations five per cent lower than The closing date for applications is 31 January 2016. October 2014 at 97 Index points Interviews and appointment meetings will be held during the spring and applicants will be advised of the appropriate • Practices in the lower turnover group have a higher average timetables. dispensing rate than those with higher revenue in October but the overall rate is falling year on year • Sample average total dispensing two per cent lower than Closing date – 31 January 2016 – last month at 89 Index points but annual growth is positive for Registration of Supervisors at almost one per cent and Practices for those wishing • Sales volume of single vision lenses fell by 5 per cent from to sit the summer 2016 Contact last month to 57 Index points Lens Practical Examinations • New contact lens fits four per cent lower than October Those planning to sit the summer 2016 practical 2014 and value of solutions sold nine per cent lower than examinations for the Certificate in Contact Lens Practice should note that the closing date for last October registering Supervisors and Practices for The full September 2015 report was published in Provisional Approval is 31 January 2016. 27 November issue of Optician Candidates wishing to sit the CL practical examination in summer 2016 must have at the time of their examination application and throughout the period up to and including their practical examination, a supervisor and practical experience practice on the current ABDO approved register – or have been given provisional approval following completion of a supervisor/practice registration application form. Completed Registration application forms To place an advert, telephone 0781 273 4717 relevant to the summer 2016 sitting must reach the ABDO offices in Kent by 31 January or email [email protected] 2016. Late arrival of the relevant documentation will mean deferment to the following Booking deadline for the February issue is examination session. Thursday 7 January Registration documents are available upon request from Examinations and Registration Special rate for ABDO members Department on 01227 732921/732924 or email [email protected]
4 2 Dispensing Optics JANUARY 2016 abdo COLLEGE WCSM Courses Available through ABDO College A comprehensive education programme focused on driving up skill levels among the non-regulated workforce within the optical sector
WCSM courses range from Level 2 Optical Support to Level 4 Optical Technicians (and soon to be available a Level 4 Diploma for Optical Assistants). The programme also includes Fast Track Technician Training for FBDOs. WCSM courses now available from ABDO College: • Level 2 & Level 3 Optical Support • Level 2 & Level 3 Diploma in Optical Retail Skills • Level 2 & Level 3 Diploma in Manufacturing Spectacles • Level 4 Diploma for Optical Assistants • Level 4 Diploma for Optical Technicians • Fast Track Technician Training for FBDOs Qualifications Accredited in Scotland • Level 5 & Level 7 Certificate in Optical Care For further information and application forms, or to request a copy of the WCSM Courses Prospectus, please call the courses team at ABDO College 01227 738 829 (Option 1) or email [email protected]
ABDO College Operational Services, Godmersham Park Godmersham, Canterbury, Kent CT4 7DT www.abdocollege.org.uk
KEEPING EXCELLENCE IN YOUR SIGHTS Can you £5 can live with give the gift of vision. blurred vision?
More than 600 million people around the world Photo courtesy: VAO are blind or vision impaired simply because they don’t have access to an eye examination and a pair of spectacles. This year Optometry Giving Sight and Vision Aid Overseas are working together to transform lives through the gift of vision.
Visit www. givingsight. org or call 01293 535016 to donate and transform a life today.
Optometry Giving Sight is a registered charity Co No: 1142250