Dispensing Optics February 2022

NEWS, INFORMATION AND EDUCATION FOR OPTICIANS

FEBRUARY 2022

Stepper (UK) Limited 11 Tannery Road Tonbridge Kent TN9 1RF 01732 375975

TX5/Titanium

www.steppereyewear.com Styles shown not available in all markets.

FEBRUARY 2022

contents features 16.

CPD – C-100263 Myopia management and research resources by Alexandra Webster

20.

CPD MCAs – C-78714 Are people with low vision effectively identified for support by dispensing opticians? by Jayshree Vasani

26..

22.

In practice Going fully private by Antonia Chitty

24.

In practice Sustainability steps for all

by Antonia Chitty

25.

Preview Student Revision Event returns

26.

Careers in Eyecare Engaging young people

regulars

22.

14.

16.

Front Cover “Eyecare professionals should be fully knowledgeable about the products they recommend.”

See CPD article on page 16

stay in touch

DO Online DO Twitter DO Instagram ABDO Facebook ABDO Twitter ABDO LinkedIn

5.

DO Dispatches

6.

From the Holmes Front

6.

News

14.

Product spotlight

28.

DO'ing something different

29.

Business Bites Eyecare FAQ OA Corner

30.

Notices

insert ABDO's Strategic Plan 2022-2026

IMAGE FROM STOCK FEBRUARY 2022 DISPENSING OPTICS

3

MEET THE ABDO COLLEGE TEAM Visit the ABDO bookshop Ask about courses for support staff Discuss becoming a DO Find courses to take your DO career further Find us on stand M244 near the main stage

23 - 25 APRIL 2022 • EXCEL LONDON

abdocollege.org.uk

Meet the ABDO team COME AND MEET THE ABDO TEAM TO:• Discover the new ABDO Strategic Plan 2022-2026 • Learn more about ABDO’s Clinical Hub • View clinical demonstrations • Discuss the ABDO 2022 Annual Plan Find ABDO on stand M244 near the main stage

23 - 25 APRIL 2022 EXCEL LONDON

DISPENSING OPTICS The Professional Journal of the Association of British Dispensing Opticians Volume 37 No 2

DO Dispatches

EDITORIAL STAFF Publisher

Sir Anthony Garrett CBE HonFBDO

Editor Email

Nicky Collinson BA (Hons) ncollinson@abdo.org.uk

Assistant Editor Email

Jane Burnand jburnand@abdo.org.uk

Design and Production Email

Duncan Taylor-Jones dtaylor-jones@abdo.org.uk

EDITORIAL/ADVERTISING Telephone Email Website

0797 903 3542 ncollinson@abdo.org.uk www.abdo.org.uk

SUBSCRIPTIONS UK Overseas

£150 £175, including postage

Apply to:

Edward Fox FBDO Association of British Dispensing Opticians Godmersham Park, Godmersham, Kent, CT4 7DT

Telephone Email Website

01227 733911 efox@abdo.org.uk www.abdo.org.uk

ABDO CPD Head of CPD

Alexandra Webster MSc PGDipE FBDO CL FHEA FBCLA ABDO CPD, Unit 2, Court Lodge Offices, Godmersham Park, Godmersham, Canterbury, Kent CT4 7DT

Telephone Email

01206 734155 abdocpd@abdo.org.uk

CPD REVIEW PANEL Josie Barlow FBDO CL Andrew Cripps FBDO PG Cert HE FHEA Kim Devlin FBDO (Hons) CL Stephen Freeman BSc (Hons) MCOptom FBDO (Hons) Cert Ed Clare Hayes FBDO CL SFHEA Claire McDonnell FAOI Graeme Stevenson FBDO (Hons) CL Alex Webster MSc PGDipE FBDO CL FHEA FBCLA Gaynor Whitehouse FBDO (Hons) LVA EDITORIAL COMMITTEE Nicky Collinson BA (Hons) Antonia Chitty PhD MCOptom MCIPR MPRCA Alex Webster MSc PGDipE FBDO CL FHEA FBCLA Max Halford FBDO CL Debbie McGill BA (Hons) Sir Anthony Garrett CBE HonFBDO Jo Holmes FBDO

YOUR MEMBERSHIP MATTERS Your Association has started the New Year on the front foot with new initiatives, new CPD and, of course, our new five-year Strategic Plan. I would also like to thank all those members who have paid their 2022 membership fees early, or who have made arrangements to pay by direct debit. The response this year has been very welcome indeed.

We have, however, encountered a small number of members who have been told by their employers that ABDO membership is not necessary and that everything can be provided by a trade body. Frankly, this is very wide of the mark and needs urgent clarification.

Only by membership of ABDO can registrants retain their FBDO status. Only by membership of ABDO can members have guaranteed CPD to retain registration with the General Optical Council. Members of ABDO have the support of our excellent free legal advice team for support on concerns ranging from employment to family issues.

In addition, many members choose to have ABDO’s own professional indemnity insurance for an unrivalled £35 per year, providing £5m worth of cover and complete peace of mind. Members can also access a wide range of benefits, providing considerable financial savings during the year. All of this sits on top of the very comprehensive work that is done to protect and promote the profession as directed by the ABDO board.

ABDO is run by dispensing opticians for dispensing opticians. No-one else can remotely offer that. Thank you for your continued support.

Sir Anthony Garrett ABDO general secretary

DISPENSING OPTICS IS PUBLISHED BY ABDO, Unit 2, Court Lodge Offices, Godmersham Park, Godmersham, Canterbury, Kent CT4 7DT Dispensing Optics is printed by P&P Litho Ltd, Ashford, Middlesex TW15 1AB © ABDO: No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted in any form or by any means whatever without the written prior permission of the publishers Dispensing Optics welcomes contributions for possible editorial publication. However, contributors warrant to the publishers that they own all rights to illustrations, artwork or photographs submitted and also to copy which is factually accurate and does not infringe any other party’s rights ISSN 0954 3201 AVERAGE CIRCULATION: 7,421 copies (July to December 2021)

FEBRUARY 2022 DISPENSING OPTICS

5

OUR MONTHLY COLUMN FROM THE ABDO PRESIDENT JO HOLMES FBDO

From the Holmes front Hub of clinical information ’d like to draw your attention to one of your membership benefits, which is on the ABDO website. The Clinical Hub is useful to all team members within practice, and one to add to your 'favourites' list for clinical dispensing and eye health. It will support all your needs across generations of patients.

Whatever stage you are at in your career, the Clinical Hub offers resources and links that will be useful. In each main section, there is an overview of a topic, accompanied by further in-depth content and resources to point you in the direction of further information.

Acronyms can be a nightmare to remember. The Clinical Hub has a comprehensive glossary available explaining a multitude of acronyms currently in circulation.

I

New Careers in Eyecare website launched Hot on the heels of its second Youth Employment UK (YEUK) award, ABDO's Careers in Eyecare campaign has launched a dedicated website at www.careersineyecare.org.uk The site builds on the Association's existing partnership with YEUK, and enables visitors to explore a range of careers in eyecare – from contact lens optician, to orthoptist, to ophthalmologist. It also includes resources such as study tips, work experience information and case studies.

Launched in 2020, the Careers in Eyecare campaign celebrated its second win in December 2021 at the Youth Employment UK Youth Friendly Employer Awards.

The Creating Opportunity #YouthFriendlyEmployer Award was presented by the government's minister for employment, Mims Davies MP, in an online ceremony.

Turn to page 26 to read more about the campaign, its awards and new website.

Pushing back to spring Useful resource for the entire practice team Myopia management is a fast-changing field, but as dispensing opticians we need to be well versed in this key topic. As advice is constantly developing and research being released, re-visit these pages on a regular basis so you have the latest guidance at all times.

To make sure you are fully up-to-date with all the research and news around the subject, visit the Myopia Updates section, which provides a brief summary and links for all the latest information.

For contact lens opticians thinking about becoming accredited in extended primary care pathways, such as minor eye conditions services (MECS), Covid-19 urgent eyecare services (CUES) and glaucoma repeat measurements, there is a full explanation of how this works in practice, along with costs and guidance in accessing the relevant courses.

As dispensing opticians, we have a duty of care to our patients.

The Clinical Hub has a guide to common eye conditions and will help you recognise signs and symptoms, and deliver the appropriate management including onward referral.

The Clinical Hub has been available for a year with already a wealth of information on it. Existing topics are continuously updated and new subjects and content are being added all the time.

This is definitely one to add as a short cut on your devices.

The profession and industry are adjusting their timetables after the rescheduling of 100% Optical to 23-25 April.

The date change was announced after Dispensing Optics' January issue went to press, following the rapid escalation of Omicron cases across the UK. Adam Sampson, chief executive of the Association of Optometrists, said: “We fully support Media 10 in the decision to delay 100% Optical 2022, and applaud the speed at which the team has found a new date in April. As the show’s official partner, we look forward to being part of an event that brings the profession together again – but only at a time when it is safe for everyone to do so.”

Covid safety measures had been introduced for 100% Optical – including providing proof of a double vaccination (NHS Covid Pass), Covid-19 antibodies, or a negative lateral flow test, and mask-wearing inside the venue – are likely to remain in place for the event in April.

Media 10 has confirmed that all visitor registrations will automatically be transferred to the new dates.

Details on visitor registration is available at www.100percentoptical.com

Jo Holmes FBDO President of ABDO SAVE THE DATE FOR APRIL

6

DISPENSING OPTICS FEBRUARY 2022

NEWS Book now for FQE Revision Event Students are advised to book now for the 2022 ABDO FQE Student Revision Event taking place on Tuesday 22 and Wednesday 23 March at the Yarnfield Training and Conference Centre in Stone, Staffordshire.

Sponsored by Hoya and Stepper, the revision event is specifically tailored to the 2015 Level 6 Diploma in Ophthalmic Dispensing, and is open to all FQE student members and covers full FQE practical revision and portfolio guidance.

Andy Sanders, professional services director at Hoya Lens UK and Ireland, said: “Hoya is committed to continuing professional development and training, and is delighted to support the next generation of dispensing opticians at the ABDO Student Revision Event”.

Alicia Thompson, ABDO director of professional examinations, said: "We are very much looking forward to bringing back this popular event in person to support our students from all dispensing institutions in preparing for their final qualifying examinations."

Read more about the programme, and what's included in the cost, on page 25.

FEBRUARY 2022 From left: Laura Haverley, Rob Barrow and Jayne Abel

OSA welcomes new board members The Optical Suppliers Association (OSA) has welcomed three new directors to its board: Jayne Abel of Eyespace Eyewear, Rob Barrow of Spec-Care Services and Laura Haverley of Keeler.

All three were elected to the OSA board in December 2021; Jayne in her capacity as chair of the OSA Sustainability Committee, Rob as new OSA Frames Focus Group vice chair, and Laura as new OSA Equipment vice chair.

Andy Hepworth, who took over from Stuart Burn as OSA chair in December, said: “I am delighted to welcome Jayne,

GOC publishes new email policy The General Optical Council (GOC) has published a new policy on the service of statutory notices by email.

The policy sets out how and when the GOC will use email to serve notices, how it will obtain consent, and the safeguards that will apply.

GOC legislation requires statutory notices to be issued as part of some registration and fitness to practise processes. These include when removing a registrant from the register, refusing to retain or restore Policy covers service of statutory notices by email a registrant on to the register, an interim order hearing or substantive hearing, or when applicants seek initial registration or to restore to the register.

The policy will allow the GOC to serve notices by email to any registrant or applicant who gives consent in writing and consent may be withdrawn at any time. To ensure fairness to all registrants and applicants, it also outlines the safeguards that will apply such as measures to check whether a notice sent by email has been received by the intended recipient.

The policy will be fully implemented in registration processes this summer when the GOC will launch a new MyGOC registrant portal. In fitness to practise cases, the GOC will seek consent in individual cases by emailing the registrant.

Read more on this story on DO Online.

Rob and Laura to the OSA board.

Between them, they have a huge range of expertise and can bring insights, which will help inform and shape different sectors of OSA membership."

Dispensing optician Rob said: “Joining the board of the OSA as vice chair of the Frames Focus Group is an honour. I am looking forward to proactively engaging with buyers and suppliers during my term."

Roy Stoner is now vice chair of the OSA, while Andy Sanders and Andy Yorke have stepped down as board directors.

GOS to remain a national service General Ophthalmic Services (GOS) in England will remain a national demand-led service under a nationally agreed GOS contract and nationally negotiated fees and grants, with no local variation.

This was confirmed by the Department of Health and Social Care (DHSC) and NHS England & NHS Improvement (NHSE-I) in December at a meeting with optical bodies to discuss the Health and Care Bill currently before parliament.

As part of the bill, integrated care boards (ICBs) will replace clinical commissioning groups (CCGs).

Under the new structure, NHS England will devolve the management of GOS contracts to ICBs. However, this will simply be about contract management; GOS itself will be without local variation.

The bill also introduces a new commissioning framework for local services, known as the provider selection regime (PSR).

The optical bodies have agreed to work collaboratively with NHS England to help ensure the PSR helps ICBs understand the primary ophthalmic services (POS) framework, and enables them to make the best use of extended primary eyecare services for the benefit of patients and the wider NHS.

FEBRUARY 2022 DISPENSING OPTICS

7

NEWS

Save the date for hybrid conference Eyecare practitioners are invited to 'save the date' for the British Contact Lens Association's new hybrid conference – BCLA Focus.

Taking place on Saturday 11 June and Sunday 12 June, both online and in person at the Vox Conference Centre in Birmingham, BCLA Focus will be open to all.

It will feature a live lecture stream and workshop sessions, whilst providing sponsors and exhibitors the opportunity to discuss the latest innovations and share new products and business strategies.

BCLA chief executive, Luke Stevens-

FEBRUARY 2022 Burt, said: “We are excited to add BCLA Focus to our annual calendar of events, following on from the success of last year’s clinical conference and BCLA Vision.

“Given the continued uncertainty around travel and face-to-face interaction, we feel a hybrid event is the way to go and we look forward to welcoming eyecare professionals and industry partners both in person and online as part of BCLA Focus.

“We will once again bring the expertise of leading global figures to a worldwide audience and are actively curating a programme featuring the very latest research that can change the way we think about the world of contact lenses and anterior eye," added Luke.

Find details at www.bcla.org.uk

BCLA FOCUS WILL TAKE PLACE AT THE VOX

Time to take two in 2022 Essilor has launched its 2022 Take Two promotion with a multi-pair offer of a complimentary or discounted second pair of lenses for every patient.

The promotion includes all branded lenses such as Stellest and Eyezen Kids for children and Varilux and Transitions. A national digital advertising drive will promote the offer and direct consumers to their local independent practice for an eye examination.

All independent practices taking part in the promotion will appear on the Essilor optician finder with a dedicated page about the promotion to help boost their online visibility.

Tim Precious, managing director at Essilor, said: “This year’s Take Two promotion will support our independent business partners and increase their online visibility, footfall and sales over the year. It will allow independents to challenge competition on the High Street from national chains with similar multipair offers.”

Posters and digital assets are available SEEING DOUBLE WITH LENS OFFER to promote the offer locally.

8

DISPENSING OPTICS FEBRUARY 2022

NEW SPRING DATE FOR MILAN SHOW

Mido returns to its roots Italian trade fair Mido is returning to its original spring dates following its latest postponement.

Latterly scheduled to take place this month, the 2022 edition will now be held at the Milano Rho Fiera from Saturday 30 April to Monday 2 May. Giovanni Vitaloni, chairman of Mido, stated: “Mido 2022 held from the end of April to the beginning of May is the best date for us to return to fulfil our mission: creating and maximising international business opportunities while conferring prestige and vitality to a strategic sector.

We are also working to be ready to welcome exhibitors and visitors in maximum safety, following the most updated regulations.”

Stay up-to-date at www.mido.com

Learning academy set up As part of its ongoing commitment to support eye health professionals with continuing professional development (CPD), Théa UK has launched its new Théa Academy.

Practitioners who register will be able to access talks by renowned eye health professionals as well as help fulfil their CPD requirements for continued registration. Online events, courses, workshops and webinars will be suitable for students and support staff too covering a wide variety of topics.

A library of books, brochures and articles will be available on demand as well as information about upcoming events.

For more information visit, www.thea-pharmaceuticals.co.uk/academy

NOW AVAILABLE AS PART OF OUR SECOND PAIR OFFER

Glacier Expression™ Anti-reflection coating

Standard Premium coating

SHAMIR GLACIER EXPRESSION™

LOOK, SEE & FEEL YOUR BEST WITH OUR NEW

ANTI-REFLECTION COATING Satisfaction from clarity

Satisfaction while driving

Increased comfort

ECP’s would recommend

98%

99%

100%

98%

NEWS

FEBRUARY 2022

Covid's impact on the ocular surface The Centre for Ocular Research & Education (CORE) has published Issue 63 of Contact Lens Update, which explores the Covid-19 pandemic’s impact on five clinically relevant ocular conditions.

The issue examines and summarises how mask wear, home schooling, and remote working may impact patients presenting to clinical practice – and potential prevention and mitigation approaches.

CORE director Dr Lyndon Jones’s opening editorial provides a review of five possible pandemic-related ocular complications. These cover a potential increase in myopia and dry eye complaints linked to increased digital device use, along with a discussion around whether mask wearing has increased rates of hordeolum and chalazion, dry eye, and dissatisfaction with spectacle wear.

UK author Keyur Patel, clinical director at Tompkins Knight & Son Optometrists, presents a case study looking at the impact of inappropriate mask wear on the break-up time of tears over the ocular surface – providing advice on how this can result in increased symptoms of dry eye that patients may not link to their mask use.

Dr Jones said: "Modifications to our daily lives appear to have a much greater impact than we could have imagined.

Contact Lens Update has consolidated and examined the most pronounced changes in detail – using an evidence-based approach to provide practitioners with sound, timely clinical advice on how to look for and manage related complications.”

The latest edition and all past issues are available for free at ContactLensUpdate.com Our photograph shows issue authors (clockwise from top left): Lyndon Jones, Rosa Yang, Keyur Patel, Carole Maldonado-Codina.

10

DISPENSING OPTICS FEBRUARY 2022

DRIVING WITHOUT (ABOVE LEFT) AND WITH (ABOVE RIGHT) AGE-RELATED MACULAR DEGENERATION

Stating the blindingly obvious The College of Optometrists has released a set of side-by-side images as part of a public awareness campaign to show the impact that common eye conditions, such as cataracts, glaucoma and myopia, have on obstructing drivers’ vision.

It follows a recent online survey conducted in the UK on the College's behalf, in which almost half of its 2,003 respondents said they didn't realise it was illegal to drive without their prescribed distance glasses or contact lenses. A quarter of respondents had risked getting fined or banned from driving by not wearing them when driving.

The main reasons given for not wearing vision correction when driving were they forgot (36 per cent), they found them uncomfortable (20 per cent), or they didn’t want to admit they needed to wear glasses (14 per cent).

More than a third (36 per cent) of drivers said they had never had their eyesight tested specifically for driving and more than one in 10 (12 per cent) said they had never visited an optometrist.

Eighteen per cent of respondents said they had missed a turning because they were unable to see the sign; 26 per cent said they had felt nervous in a car due to a driver’s eyesight, and 21 per cent had reminded a driver to put their glasses on.

However, 50 per cent of respondents said they would feel confident in "having an honest conversation and asking a friend or family member to get their eyes tested".

Making a night of it Positive Impact (PI) has added orthokeratology (ortho-k) contact lenses to its product portfolio in a new partnership with Scotlens.

In 2021, Scotlens launched its publicfacing website, nightlenses.com, alongside a marketing campaign rebranding its Nocturnal ortho-k contact lens as offering a ‘night lens experience'.

PI marketing and professional services director, Nick Atkins, said: “Since my first involvement with an ortho-k product 17 years ago, I’ve been surprised at its slow adoption into a more mainstream contact lens option. Its use in myopia control hasn’t moved things along either, in fact, I believe it’s hampered its adoption by it becoming pigeon-holed for this use.

“We share Scotlens’ enthusiasm to disrupt this space and get patients demanding ‘night lenses’ from their independent contact lens specialist.”

Scotlens managing director, Tom Griffiths, said: “Positive Impact has the experience we need to grow night lens sales. Our Nocturnal night lens is a perfect fit in their stable of products and there is a natural chemistry between us, which is important."

NEW PARTNERSHIP FOR ORTHO-K LENS DRIVE

VISION FOR THE FUTURE

REGISTER FREE

23-25 APRIL 2022 EXCEL LONDON

Product Launches | CPD Points | Fashion Catwalks

www.100percentoptical.com #100optical @100optical

OFFICIAL UK PARTNER

MEDIA PARTNER

SPONSORS

NEWS Versatile 'shopping' options

Connecting the real and digital worlds Silhouette UK has launched a Buy Local initiative with the aim of connecting consumers with High Street independent practices.

“To offer our customers the best possible service and to connect our Silhouette online community to local brickand-mortar practices, there needs to be a seamless transition between the online and offline customer experience,” explained Christian Ender, chief sales officer for Silhouette International.

"As things stand, however, despite increasing digitalisation, end consumers tend to experience them as two separate

worlds. The main aim of the Buy Local initiative is to support our independent British partners and offer customers more versatile shopping options."

Silhouette’s Click & Collect service is designed to bridge the gap between online and offline retail. Consumers can select glasses to try on using the virtual Try-On service on silhouette.com. They can then go online and arrange an appointment for a professional one-on-one consultation with their chosen practice. Up to three pairs of glasses can be put in their Click & Collect basket and delivered free of charge to their chosen Click & Collect partner.

Eyecare and the three bears

The workbook uses augmented reality to bring some of the pages to life via an app, while the bears deliver eye health messages and eyecare advice. It also includes eye-related activities and other educational pages.

Optometrist Jean said: “The workbook helps ensure that the message of the importance of regular eyecare for children is heard by the parents, as there is also a parent’s section.

"I’m so delighted with the finished product. Not only can the book add fantastic learning and fun to school talks, but it can be given away to children having their eyes examined, or sold in practice."

The workbook can be ordered from a Hoya representative or direct by emailing info@eglintoneyecare.com. The cover can be personalised with practice details, logo and a QR code to direct readers to a practice website.

Jean is pictured (centre) with her colleague, Megan McCartney, and John French of SightCare at the book's launch during the 2021 Optix Conference.

Jean Kelly of Eglinton Eyecare has developed an interactive, educational children’s workbook to help eyecare professionals deliver workshops to children.

Jean’s 48-page workbook – Your Eyes.

Eyecare Adventures with Op, Tish and Ann – follows the story of three bears and is aimed at children aged seven to nine years, and was produced with support from Hoya.

JEAN (CENTRE) LAUNCHES HER WORKBOOK

12

DISPENSING OPTICS FEBRUARY 2022

Study opens doors to earlier AMD treatment A new study has shown that the signs of age-related macular degeneration (AMD) can set in earlier than previously thought – even before patients begin to lose their sight.

The findings open the door for research into earlier treatment that could help slow down the onset of the condition – the most common cause of sight loss in the western world.

A research team led by the University of Southampton with colleagues at King’s College London and Moorfields Eye Hospital looked at the records of more than 30,000 patients who had retinal scans and genetic data stored in the UK Biobank. There are 34 known genetic risk factors for AMD and the scientists compared the retinal measurements of those with the risk factors to those without.

The findings, published Scientific Reports, showed that the participants with healthy eyes and no history of AMD had thinner retinas if they carried the genes that put them at risk.

Andrew Lotery, professor of ophthalmology at the University of Southampton, who led the study, along with Professor Pirro Hysi at King’s College London and Praveen Patel at Moorfields Eye Hospital, said: “These results help us understand the very early stages of the disease, before it is clinically apparent. If we can intervene at an earlier stage, we are more likely to be able to preserve sight.”

Going forth in Glasgow In yet another optical conference postponement, Eyecare Glasgow 2022 will now take place on 3 and 4 April at the Hilton Hotel Glasgow.

Eyecare is the biggest conference and free exhibition for the optical profession and industry in Scotland and has been running for more than 20 years. It will offer a packed schedule, including the launch of the Eyecare Awards.

Visit https://eyecare.education

DISPENSING OPTICS I FEBRUARY 2022 Global virtual myopia event The World Council of Optometry (WCO) is partnering with CooperVision to host a virtual event on 12 February focused on myopia management.

Experts who will share their perspectives on myopia management include optometrists Carmen AbesamisDichoso (Philippines), Thomas Aller (USA), Philip Cheng (Australia), Kate Gifford (Australia), and Sara McCullough (UK).

“We are delighted to bring together this dynamic group of industry leaders to discuss the importance of myopia management as a global standard of

care,” said Paul Folkesson, WCO president. “Their keen insight will bring clarity and perspective to this multifaceted issue facing millions of adults and children around the world.”

The WCO and CooperVision launched an online resource last September providing multilingual assets and approaches for eyecare professionals – regardless of geographic location – to apply a standard of care to manage myopia.

Register the virtual event at https://tinyurl.com/52w2b4dk

MYOPIA ASSETS FOR USE WORLDWIDE

Tribute paid to Karen Sparrow The Worshipful Company of Spectacle Makers (WCSM) has paid tribute to Karen Sparrow, who sadly passed away on 4 January at the age of 53.

A qualified optometrist, Karen became a Freeman of the WCSM in 2001, moving up to the Livery in 2005. Well known throughout the professions, she was dedicated to supporting the Company, as well as being a volunteer trainer for Vision Aid Overseas.

Her final professional role was as global programme manager for Peek Vision, the social enterprise rolling out technological solutions for diagnosis of vision impairment and access to eye health in less advantaged areas of the world.

WCSM Master, Ian Davies, said:

“Karen was one of the most selfless, enthusiastic and positive people I have ever met. She made a real difference to vision through many organisations and countries. We will miss her presence, but we know that her spirit will remain with us.”

Read the WCSM's tribute in full on DO Online.

THE LATE KAREN SPARROW

OBITUARY:

Derek Baker

By Jo Underwood, ABDO College advisor and founding principal

It is with sadness that we report the death of Derek Baker, past registrar of ABDO, due to complications after contracting Covid.

Derek started his working life as a trainee engineer with the Royal Air Force but was discharged on medical grounds, due to epilepsy, after three years. He then worked in an accountancy firm before joining the ADO (the predecessor to ABDO) in 1964 as assistant to the secretary, Marc Aird, soon becoming registrar.

Derek was in charge of distance learning courses, block release placement and examinations, in a role that was multi-faceted and included acting as secretary to a multitude of committees. He saw the distance learning course increase from 50 students when he arrived, to more than 1,000 students when he retired.

Over the years, Derek was instrumental in the setting up of training in many countries, including Malaysia, Singapore, South Africa, Kenya and Zimbabwe, and setting up the optics department at Anglia Ruskin University and ABDO College.

Derek was awarded ABDO Honorary Life Membership for his services to the profession and was granted an honorary degree by Anglia Ruskin University.

Derek retired in 2003 but has always remained interested in ABDO and ABDO College affairs, and has kept in touch with many members, who became close friends over the years.

Married for more than 50 years, Derek leaves his wife Wendy, his children Alison and Stuart and grandchildren of whom he was very proud.

The funeral took place at Bournemouth crematorium on 4 January. Any donations are very welcome to Oakhaven Hospice, Lymington, where Derek worked as a volunteer for many years.

FEBRUARY 2022 DISPENSING OPTICS

13

PRODUCT SPOTLIGHT - NEW LAUNCHES

Myopia control written in the stars

Managing myopia in children from age six to 16

Essilor has officially launched Stellest lenses in the UK to help correct myopia and slow down its progression.

Tim Precious, Essilor managing director, said: “This much anticipated UK launch of our new generation spectacle lens will provide fresh hope for eyecare practitioners, parents and children as a game-changing development in the fight against myopia progression."

Designed with Highly Aspherical Lenslet Target, or HALT technology, a constellation of 1,021 invisible aspherical contiguous lenslets distributed over 11 rings on the surface of the lens create a volume of unfocused light in front of – and following the shape of – the retina.

This signal is said to help slow down eye elongation and thus myopia progression.

“Stellest lenses offer the dual benefit of myopia correction and control to help minimise the risk of related complications that can eventually lead to irreversible vision loss, and without any aesthetic compromise,” Tim added.

Training and point-of-sale materials are available to promote the lens, which is included in Essilor’s 2022 multi-pair lens offer.

All the latest As we inch ever-closer to spring, we showcase an eclectic mix of fresh product launches – from lenses and coatings to frames and OCT...

Next generation polarised eyewear

Providing "an outstanding visual experience"

The latest eyewear collection from Invu by the Swiss Eyewear Group blends innovative polarising lens technology with state-of-the-art materials to produce "affordable, fashionable eyewear".

All Invu sunglasses are designed and engineered in Zurich, Switzerland, by a group of design and optical industry experts. From the artist impression, to the technical drawings, to prototypes and all the way to the manufacturing of the final product, Invu goes through rigorous steps to ensure "an exceptional customer experience".

Invu’s ultra-polarised lens features a base material that comes from Germany and an ultra-polariser from high tech Japan. With this, the Swiss Eyewear Group says it can consistently guarantee 99 per cent polariser efficiency, 100 per cent UV-400 protection, high efficiency blue light absorption, and "an outstanding visual experience for all customers".

Next generation AR coating: hard to resist

Highest performing Crizal coating to date 14

DISPENSING OPTICS FEBRUARY 2022

Essilor's new generation premium anti-reflective (AR) coating, Crizal Sapphire HR, is said to offer up to 70 per cent more scratch-resistance and up to 20 per cent improvement in thermal resistance than previous generations.

Crizal Sapphire HR takes its name from new Crizal High Resistance technology, which combines four specific oxides known for their resistance against dust, scratches and temperature. One of the oxides is taken from the aerospace industry for its high thermal resistance.

Crizal coatings are made of nanoscopic layers, up to 50 times thinner than a strand of hair. Essilor's High Surface Density process offers an extra top layer for smudge resistance and dirt and water repellence; while its 360 Multi-angular Technology quantifies the overall AR efficiency (0-45°) to reduce reflections whatever the light direction.

Tim Precious, managing director at Essilor, said: “This is a considerable development for the coating industry... and replaces Crizal Sapphire UV with superior protection in terms of scratch and thermal resistance, after undergoing rigorous Crizal Lifeproof multi-tests to become our highest performing Crizal coating to date."

A wide range of support materials such as leaflets, posters, and window stickers are available to order directly from Essilor.

PRODUCT SPOTLIGHT - NEW LAUNCHES

Faster, simpler and ideal for small spaces The Optovue iScan80 optical coherence tomographer (OCT) is now available in the UK from Haag-Streit UK. The iScan80 is a user-friendly, high-speed OCT system that is said to be ideal for practices seeking an affordable and versatile OCT system. It delivers highspeed 80kHz OCT at 80,000 A-scans per second, three times faster than the original iScan system. It also offers a more simplified scan acquisition, and a wider field of view.

Compact and portable, the iScan80’s streamlined design integrates the operator interface, display, patient interface and scan head into one console. The table top design offers the flexibility to place it in any room, or transfer from one practice to another.

Its features include an OCT iWellness scan, retina mapping, retinal nerve fibre layer and ganglion cell complex trend analysis, high-density 3D retinal imaging and in-depth 3D optic nerve head analysis. It also boasts a range of anterior scans, including pachymetry, epithelial mapping, angle scans and vault mapping.

The Optovue iScan80 OCT

Colourful collection with a 'lite' touch New from Continental Eyewear is the X-Eyes Lite collection of titanium and acetate eyewear.

X-Eyes Lite is a bright and colourful 21-model collection with what the company describes as "an incredibly thin and ‘lite’ feel". Offering a variety of modern and classic styles, the minimalistic titanium frames feature high density acetate fronts, promoting a much thinner and more premium look than regular acetate.

The nose pads are comfortable silicone and the titanium material ensures maximum durability and lightness, as well as being hypoallergenic.

"X-Eyes Lite is perfect for patients who want a lightweight, luxury titanium frame without the premium price tag," said a company spokesperson.

X-Eyes Lite model XEL01 in C2

Superfine, feminine and stylish Part of the new collection from OWP, style 1460 is a superfine half-rim panto style for ladies.

Its design is founded on a clean front and delicate metal sides. A noble lugtemple flourish, and long end-tips made of signature acetate, reveal additional colourful accents. Four trendy colour concepts in a matt finish underscore the light and airy look.

"The OWP ladies' collection represents attention to detail and superb design," said a spokesperson. "Whether they are feminine and vibrant or timelessly elegant – every one of our creations stands out thanks to its unique character and, as such, is the perfect statement piece for fashion-conscious women."

OWP style 1460 for ladies

Value sibling line joins the fold New for 2022, Essentials by Stepper is a range of affordable styles that deliver many of the characteristics evident in its sibling Stepper and StepperS brands.

“These frames broaden the appeal of our offering, allowing us to deliver Stepper comfort and fit to even more frame wearers,” commented Peter Reeve, Stepper UK managing director.

The frames are positioned as an introduction to Stepper Eyewear and represent a significant expansion of the benefits brought by the ‘original German design’ concept. Comprising male, female and unisex designs the 15-model range offers metal and plastic construction in three colourways.

Plastic models are created from TX3, an elementary version of the TX5 material used for Stepper and StepperS plastic models, and feature the brand’s ‘design from the bridge’ concept, 3D design/manufacture and "remarkable" lightness.

Metal models benefit a Stepper comfort bridge, spreading the weight across the bridge and eliminating the need for nose pads.

Introducing Stepper Essentials

Next month's Product Spotlight is on Spring Sunglasses.

FEBRUARY 2022 DISPENSING OPTICS

15

CPD LEARNING DOMAINS

SELF-DIRECTED LEARNING CPD

Myopia management and research resources

By Alexandra Webster MSc, PGDipE, FBDO CL, FHEA, FBCLA

PROFESSIONAL GROUPS

CLOSING DATE: 10 May 2022 ANSWER PUBLISHED: 1 June 2022 CPD CODE: C-100263 ONLINE ONLY MCQS This CPD session is open to all FBDO members and associate member optometrists. Successful completion of this CPD session will provide you with a certificate of completion of one noninteractive CPD point. The multiplechoice questions (MCQs) are available online only from Tuesday 1 February 2022. Visit www.abdo.org.uk. After member login, scroll down and you will find CPD Online within your personalised dashboard. Six questions will be presented in a random order.

Please ensure that your email address and GOC number are up-to-date.

The pass mark is 60 per cent.

CPD CODE: C-100263

16

DISPENSING OPTICS FEBRUARY 2022

dentifying and supporting patients who may be at risk of developing and/or progressing with myopia is becoming more common in everyday practice. Many optical businesses in the UK now offer one or more interventions that may potentially slow down the progression of a child’s myopia, rather than just provide an option to help them see better.

There are a number of contact lens and spectacle interventions now available, which have been specifically developed to help manage myopia. Additionally, advice can be provided on environmental and lifestyle factors that may be influential in the development of myopia, as well as signposting parents to helpful resources.

Manufacturers of products that support the management of myopia will normally provide information and training to eyecare professionals, to support the sale of their products to the patient.

Information provided may be based on clinical research studies that have been undertaken, as well as commercial explanations to support communication about the products with patients and parents.

I

Whichever professional role is being conducted in practice, it is important that the eyecare professional is fully knowledgeable about the products they are recommending, to ensure they are providing the best care to their patients and are able to honestly communicate about which product is appropriate and why, given the individual patient circumstances.

Whatever the clinical area in discussion, as General Optical Council (GOC) registrants, it is also important to have a broad understanding of best and current practice, based on the research and evidence available at the time – removed from commercial interests.

This self-directed learning, continuing professional development (CPD) article has two aims: firstly, to support a greater understanding of the need to engage in identifying and supporting children who are at risk of developing and/or progressing with myopia; and secondly, to help practise reviewing academic research, a skill that can support everyday clinical practice and patient care.

EYECARE PROFESSIONALS SHOULD BE FULLY KNOWLEDGEABLE ABOUT THE PRODUCTS THEY RECOMMEND

BOX 1

Scarlett

BOX 2

Dominic

AGE: 11

AGE: 6

Scarlett’s prescription has steadily increased in myopia since she started wearing spectacles aged eight. There has been an increase of -1.00DS in both eyes since her previous eye examination 12 months ago. Neither of Scarlett’s parents require a refractive correction.

Dominic attended for his first eye examination today. His parents have no concerns about his eyesight, but both regularly attend the practice for eye examinations themselves.

Scarlett currently has standard single vision lenses in her spectacles and there is no record of any discussions about contact lenses on her records.

Scarlett is academically bright and a member of the school maths club and STEM club. Outside of school she attends gymnastics and Taekwondo clubs.

PRESCRIPTION

Right Left

Dominic’s father is myopic and usually wears contact lenses as he doesn’t like the cosmesis of his spectacle lenses.

Dominic’s mother does not require a refractive correction.

Dominic’s grandparents on his mother’s side are Hong Kong Chinese and moved to the UK in the 1970s.

Dominic is an active boy who loves playing football with his friends and is a member of his local Beavers troop.

PRESCRIPTION

Sph

Cyl

Axis

VA

-3.50 -3.50

-0.75 -1.00

10 170

6/4 6/4

Sph Right Left

MAKING POSITIVE CHANGES

TWO PAEDIATRIC CASES

The new GOC CPD scheme enables registrants to undertake learning in areas they have identified as important in their professional development plans, without the previous restrictions of the core competencies1. Additionally, it is now possible to submit CPD not conducted through a GOC-approved provider, and this may include forms of independent learning submitted with a reflective justification of why this was appropriate and what took place.

This opens the opportunity for GOC registrants to take greater control over the areas of their practice they would like to conduct their CPD in, as well as conduct and submit alternative forms of CPD than has previously been possible in our field. Reviewing the available research in an area of professional interest, and reflecting on how this could impact your clinical practice, can be a valuable way to make positive changes in your patient care.

This article presents two paediatric patient cases – Box 1 and Box 2 – for you to consider, alongside two academic research resources, which may influence how you would consider supporting these patients.

More research is now being published through ‘open access’, making it easier for all eyecare professionals to directly obtain evidence-based information that may inform their clinical practice and decision making. There is still a need to confirm that the information you are accessing is robust and the research has been rigorously conducted.

Research that is published in academic journals will go through a process of peer-review before publication. This process involves other academic experts in the field reviewing the information to be published, to confirm the research was conducted and reported appropriately. It also allows for any corrections required to be made.

PLAN YOUR CPD TODAY For all the latest available CPD from ABDO, visit www.abdo.org.uk. All online and face-to-face interactive CPD events open for booking can be found on the Events pages.

CPD articles and recorded lectures can be accessed in your personal membership area.

Resources to help you plan and reflect on your CPD are available in the Professional Development Toolbox. GOC registrants are now responsible for submitting their own CPD and points are no longer uploaded by providers. On successful completion of this CPD session, log into your MyGOC account and follow the steps to submit this session using your certificate of completion as evidence. For more information on the new GOC CPD scheme, visit www.optical.org

Cyl

Plano -0.50DS

Axis

VA 6/4 6/4

Before you attempt the multiplechoice questions for this article, review the two patient cases and access the suggested resources. You may also like to conduct further research in this area.

RESOURCE ONE: IMI WHITE PAPER Resource one is the International Myopia Institute (IMI) White Paper for 'IMI 2021 Reports and Digest – Reflection on the Implications for Clinical Practice'2. This three-page report summarises, for the optical professional, the latest systematic review of the available global research in the field of myopia development and management and provides an evidence-based clinical approach.

This paper was originally published in Investigative Ophthalmology & Visual Science, a journal with a high impact factor ranking in the field of ophthalmology. Impact factors are related to the number of times an article published in a journal is then mentioned or ‘cited’ in further published research or academic writing.

Understanding the impact factor of a journal can be seen as a way of considering if the research was robustly conducted and reported, and is relevant or beneficial to the area of concern.

However, there have been incidences reported of 'nonsense' papers making it to publication in high impact factor journals3.

FEBRUARY 2022 DISPENSING OPTICS

17

CPD

REVIEWING ACADEMIC RESEARCH SUPPORTS EVERYDAY CLINICAL PRACTICE AND PATIENT CARE

Therefore, although it may be one possible indicator, where an article is published is not a standalone way to confirm research quality.

Visit https://myopiainstitute.org/imiwhite-papers/ and download the paper: IMI 2021 Reports and Digest – Reflections on the Implications for Clinical Practice.

RESOURCE TWO: NICER STUDY/PREMO Resource two has two elements and includes the Northern Ireland Childhood Errors of Refraction (NICER) Study background information4 – and Predicting Myopia Onset and progression (PreMO): an evidence-based risk indicator for eyecare practitioners5.

The NICER Study, based out of Ulster University, started in 2006 and examines how children’s vision changes throughout their childhood and into adolescence.

The study has produced a number of key findings and helped to develop resources to support optical professionals in practice including the PreMO Risk Indicator.

This resource has two parts. Firstly, the webpage describes the longitudinal research study the university is undertaking and summarises the current findings from the research, rather than providing access to the published research itself. So, is this webpage a trustworthy source of information?

Well, the University of Ulster Optometry and Vision Science Department is a well-respected educational centre in the UK, but you may not be aware of that. If you were to go to

18

DISPENSING OPTICS FEBRUARY 2022

Google Scholar ( just type 'Google Scholar' into your web browser) and type in ‘NICER Study’, the top four returns (when accessed on 1 December 2021) would provide you with links to published research from this study. Three of these studies were published in Investigative Ophthalmology & Visual Science.

There are other ways to consider if the information provided on a webpage is a reliable source. If the text is referenced, it is possible to look these references up and consider if you think the information on the webpage is evidence-based from a reliable source.

Secondly, the NICER Study webpage provides a link to the PreMO Risk Indicator. This is a tool that has been developed using data collected from the study. This tool is designed for use by eyecare practitioners and may be used in High Street practice in conjunction with one of the other tools available on this webpage: Estimate Axial Length.

Together these tools can help the eyecare practitioner consider how they might support their paediatric patients depending on individual patient factors.

Visit: https://www.ulster.ac.uk/resea rch/topic/biomedicalsciences/research/optometry-andvision-science/research/myopia-and-the -nicer-study to read the webpage and download the PreMO Risk Indicator.

REFERENCES 1. General Optical Council. Information for registrants. Available at: https://optical.org/en/education-andcpd/continuing-professionaldevelopment/information-for-registrants 2. Wolffsohn JS, Jong M, Smith EL III et al.

IMI 2021 Reports and Digest – Reflections on the Implications for Clinical Practice.

Invest Ophthalmol Vis Sci. 2021;62(5):1.

Available at: https://myopiainstitute.org/imiwhite-papers 3. Van Noorden, R. Publishers withdraw more than 120 gibberish papers. Nature (2014). Available at: https://doi.org/10.1038/nature.2014.1 4763 4. Ulster University. The NICER Study 2021. Available at: https://www.ulster.ac.uk/research/top ic/biomedicalsciences/research/optometry-andvision-science/research/myopia-and-t he-nicer-study 5. Ulster University. Predicting Myopia Onset and progression (PreMo): an evidence-based risk indicator for eyecare practitioners. Available at: https://www.ulster.ac.uk/__data/asse ts/pdf_file/0011/826184/PreMO-riskindicator-for-website.pdf

ALEXANDRA WEBSTER MSc, PGDipE, FBDO CL, FHEA, FBCLA is a qualified dispensing optician and contact lens optician and has worked in both independent and multiple practice.

She is an international practical examiner and theory paper marker for ophthalmic dispensing and a practical contact lens examiner for ABDO. Alex is head of CPD at ABDO and has worked in contact lens professional services and optical education for more than seven years, gaining a Master’s degree in Healthcare Professional Education. She is currently undertaking a Professional Doctorate in Education, and has worked part-time as a lecturer in ophthalmic dispensing and contact lenses at Bradford College. Alex is an experienced presenter and facilitator, as well as an author of CET and CPD.

LEARNING OUTCOMES FOR THIS CPD ARTICLE DOMAIN: Clinical Practice 5.3: Develop a greater understanding of the need to access robust, up-to-date research literature in myopia management, to be able to provide good practice and patient care.

7.5: Appraise up-to-date research literature to enable the provision of effective patient care and treatments.

7.6: Develop a greater understanding of the currently recommended management strategies for paediatric patients who are at risk of developing or progressing with myopia, including the provision of advice, optical appliances and medical devices.

CPD REGION EVENTS

Face-to-face CPD

to commence from May wing to the continuing impact of the Covid-19 pandemic and the ongoing uncertainty this has caused for registrant, facilitator and sponsor availability, ABDO is now expecting the launch of its face-to-face regional events with continuing professional development (CPD) to commence in May 2022.

Explaining more about the return of in-person CPD events, Alex Webster, ABDO head of CPD, said:

O

LIVE EVENTS WILL RETURN IN THE SPRING

"Interactive and non-interactive CPD will continue to be available online, while non-interactive distance learning articles and recorded lectures can be found in the personal membership area of the ABDO website.

Interactive online CPD workshops will include discussion workshops and peer review."

To support ABDO members with the skills to consider how research may have implications for their clinical practice, the Association is launching a series of online Journal Club meetings.

"These sessions will provide a space for registrants to discuss relevant research with their peers, as well as develop critical thinking skills and knowledge around research design," said Alex.

"We will be providing CPD in the contact lens optician speciality requirement including online peer review, contact lens specific webinars and recorded lectures. We will also be holding face-to-face contact lens speciality events at the ABDO National Resource Centre in Birmingham."

All interactive CPD events require advanced booking via the Events page of the ABDO website.

THE FQE STUDENT REVISION EVENT SAVE THE DATE: Tuesday 22 to Wednesday 23 MARCH 2022 Join us in March for a ‘not to be missed’ revision event specifically tailored to the 2015 Level 6 Diploma in Ophthalmic Dispensing.

The two day event is open to all FQE student members and covers full FQE practical revision and portfolio guidance.

THE EVENT FEE IS £155 and INCLUDES: – Accommodation for Tuesday night – Breakfast, lunch and refreshments – Evening BBQ and live entertainment EVENT VENUE: Yarnfield Park Training and Conference Centre, Yarnfield, Stone, STAFFORDSHIRE ST15 0NL

Event kindly sponsored by

For more information and to book please visit www.abdo.org.uk/events/fqe-student-revision-event/

FEBRUARY 2022 DISPENSING OPTICS

19

MCAs

Multiple choice answers Are people with low vision effectively identified for support by dispensing opticians?

By Jayshree Vasani FBDO C-78714 – published in October 2021

Six of the following questions were presented online to entrants to comply with the General Optical Council’s best practice specifications for this type of CET.

Sight loss in the UK affects approximately? a. Twenty million people b. Five million people c. Two million people d. Half a million people c is the correct answer. The RNIB Economic Impact Report estimates that more than two million people in the UK are living with sight loss. Further information can be accessed via https://www.rnib.org.uk/professionals/knowledge-andresearch-hub/key-information-and-statistics

Which of the following statements is correct? a. Dispensing opticians should refer all patients with low vision to a specialist low vision practitioner b. Low vision practitioners can only be found in hospital eye departments c. Optometrists have a specific core competence in low vision as defined in the General Optical Council’s core competences d. Dispensing opticians have a specific core competence in low vision as defined in the General Optical Council’s core competences d is the correct answer. Dispensing opticians have a separate competence in low vision whilst optometrists have low vision within their other competencies. Further information can be accessed via: https://www.optical.org/en/Education/core-competencies-core-curricula/index.cfm. Low vision practitioners can be found in High Street practice as well as within hospital eye departments and the third sector. Low vision is a core competence for all dispensing opticians and optometritsts and, as such, can be practised within any optical outlet.

Which of the following is not considered to be one of the five leading causes of sight loss in the UK? a. Uncorrected refractive error b. Retinitis pigmentosa c. Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) d. Diabetic retinopathy b is the correct answer. Retinitis pigmentosa is a cause of sight loss, however, it has not been identified as one of the five main causes. These are: AMD, cataract, diabetic retinopathy, glaucoma, and uncorrected refractive error.

More information can be accessed in Section 1.2 of https://www.rnib.org.uk/sites/default/files/The%20econom ic%20impact%20of%20sight%20loss%20and%20blindnes s%20in%20the%20UK%202013.pdf Age plays an important factor in sight loss prevalence.

Research suggests that as we age, the probability of sight loss becoming more likely increases. Complete the following sentence: the percentage of the UK population living with sight loss over the age of 90 is: a. Over 50 per cent b. Over 10 per cent c. Over 20 per cent d. Over five per cent a is the correct answer. Evans et al in 2002 identified the rates of sight loss increasing with age: 75-79 years approximately 10.8 per cent, rising in the >90 years age group to 53.1 per cent. More information can be found in section 2.2.1 of https://www.rnib.org.uk/sites/default/files/The%20econom ic%20impact%20of%20sight%20loss%20and%20blindnes s%20in%20the%20UK%202013.pdf

20

DISPENSING OPTICS FEBRUARY 2022

Statistics suggest that people living with sight loss of working age are less likely to be in paid employment than their sighted contemporaries. Complete the following sentence: The number of people in the UK who are registered sight impaired (SI)/severely sight impaired (SSI) and in work is: a. One in three b. One in 10 c. One in four d. One in seven c is the correct answer. Statistics contained within the RNIB Report on Access to Work 2017 states that only one in four SI or SSI people are in work. It also suggests the numbers are falling. Further information can be accessed via: https://www.rnib.org.uk/sites/default/files/RNIB%20report %20on%20Access%20to%20Work_Updated%20Edition_F ebruary%202017.docx

Support for patients with sight loss is essential to enable them to live a fulfilled life. An increasing number of opticians and optical practices can signpost service users to a local ECLO in their area who will be able to offer practical help and help them understand their eye condition. The acronym ECLO stands for: a. Eye clinic liaison officer b. Eye care liaison officer c. Eye care living official d. Eye clinic living official a is the correct answer. Eye clinic liaison officer is the correct term. Many ECLOs are funded by local authorities or by the third sector. Find out more about ECLOs via: https://www.rnib.org.uk/ecloinformation Practical help is invaluable to sight impaired patients.

One low tech aid is a typoscope. Which statement is incorrect? a. A typoscope can improve visual acuity b. A typoscope allows greater concentration on the text by blocking out surrounding text and highlighting the text to be viewed c. A typoscope reduces glare from white paper when placed over it d. A black (or dark coloured) typoscope improves contrast on when placed on white paper a is the correct answer. Visual acuity (VA) is a measurement of how well a person can see. Low vision aids, whether optical or non-optical, enhance what VA a person has and enables them to make the best of what they have.

Recent advances in technology and the explosion in ‘assistive technology’ for patients with low vision have enabled many sight impaired patients to be more independent. Smartphone apps such as Seeing AI and Be my Eyes enable patients to utilise elements of technology to help them ‘see’? Which statement is correct? a. Seeing AI relies on volunteers relaying information to service users via a telephone/video call b. Seeing AI utilises the camera on the smartphone to photograph text or a scene and it then verbalises the info to the service user c. Be my Eyes is a paid smartphone app available via both IOS and Android platforms d. Be my Eyes uses artificial intelligence to relay what is visible though the smartphone camera b is the correct answer. Seeing AI converts images and text to the service user without intervention from anyone else. Be my Eyes is a free app and, relying on sighted volunteers, is the largest community of visually impaired people and one of the biggest micro-volunteering platforms in the world.

GUIDECONNECT SOFTWARE FROM DOLPHIN COMPUTER ACCESS

Voice assistants like Alexa, Siri and Google Assistant can be a valuable aid to sight impaired patients. Which of the following requests is not currently possible by a Voice assistant? a. Record a shopping list and repeat it back b. Play music to improve someone’s mood c. Tell the time or the news or the weather forecast d. Multiple commands such as: what is the time, temperature and latest news in Auckland NZ? d is the correct answer. Most voice assistants respond well to basic single commands. Their programming is not usually equipped to respond to a request with multiple actions. See the CBS news story, which tells what Alexa cannot do here: https://www.cbsnews.com/news/9-thingsalexa-cant-yet-do/

Image courtesy of the RNIB

SMARTPHONE SETTINGS CAN BE EASILY ADJUSTED TO IMPROVE ACCESSIBILITY

Participants are advised that the GOC’s Enhanced CET Principles and Requirements v4 document states that for text article CET questions: “A proportion of the questions should require the application of existing professional knowledge to determine the answer”. This can include personal research online, or following up the article references.

FEBRUARY 2022 DISPENSING OPTICS

21

IN PRACTICE – PRIVATE-ONLY MODEL ANTONIA CHITTY

Going fully private s more independent optical practices are considering stopping supplying General Ophthalmic Services (GOS), what does this mean for the profession, and access to eyecare for patients? In this article, you can read about the factors that are driving practitioners to make this choice – and hear from two business owners who have made the move.

A

There are several factors that make supplying GOS a strain on any practice, and the continued underfunding of the sight test is key to this. Last October's Optix Conference focused on the issue over a busy morning where practitioners heard from colleagues who had already made the move. Graham Hutchison, optical management consultant, recently carried out a survey of 400 practitioners1 which showed that one in five independent practice owners were considering a future beyond GOS. Graham explains: “The objective of the survey was to identify and measure the latest financial situation and opinions of independent opticians regarding their practice profitability following the impact of Covid. One part of this research covered the likelihood of independents leaving the NHS and going private.

"Seven per cent of independents surveyed said they were ‘definitely going private’, whilst another 13 per cent said they were ‘seriously thinking about it’.

Around a fifth of independents could leave the NHS in the next three years.

Such a move poses commercial risks as well as opportunities.”

Graham continues: “Independent opticians thinking of going private first need to ensure their practices are robust enough financially to cope with the potential initial drop-off of patients and income after leaving the NHS. This means optimising their profitability beforehand to withstand any subsequent hit to income in the first year or so."

Graham's advice to independents is

22

DISPENSING OPTICS FEBRUARY 2022

to: "...thoroughly research the financial implications of going private, bolster their profitability as quickly as possible, and plan how they are going to communicate the change to their NHS patients. Practitioners should not base their decision on the assumption that the surprisingly positive financial effects of Covid will continue. There is still the fundamental competitive threat from the multiples and internet retailers," Graham added.

availability of GOS care carefully to ensure that there are not gaps. And the possibility of practitioners moving away from GOS gives added weight to the argument that the NHS should increase GOS fees significantly," Alistair concludes.

REGULATION AND STANDARDS ABDO’s head of strategy, Alistair Bridge, recently took part in the 2021 Alconversation, where the move away from GOS to exclusively private practice was also discussed.

Alistair says: “If practices want to offer purely private services, there is no problem in principle. But if they are doing so because it is not economically viable to provide GOS, we should all be concerned.

"A related issue is that for some practices, there will not be sufficient private work to compensate for the low level of GOS fees and they could cease trading altogether. There is a risk, therefore, that patients will be not able to receive NHS care in certain parts of the country which could increase health disparities.”

There are further issues, as Alistair explains: “There is a risk of variation in standards as purely private practices will not be subject to NHS oversight and standards of clinical governance. This risk is increased by the fact that not all businesses currently need to register with the General Optical Council [GOC] and comply with its business standards."

As Alistair points out, regulation only applies to corporate bodies using a protected title such as 'optometrist' or 'optician'. He continues: "This reinforces the need for a comprehensive system of business regulation so that all practices are regulated by the GOC. "The NHS needs to monitor the

"GOS IS BROKEN" – SAYS ANTHONY JOSEPHSON

SMALL STEPS, GIANT LEAP Anthony Josephson, owner of Maskell and Josephson Optometrists in Altrincham and Warrington, took his practice private last summer. He tells us: “We love the NHS and what it does but the GOS is a broken model, which no longer works in the best interests of good independent practices or their patients. Being private allows everyone to receive the best care with no ifs, buts or compromise.”

Anthony had been considering going fully private for some time before he took the plunge, but says he was " cautious about how much work we would need to do to retain as many of our NHS patients as possible.

"I didn’t have time to do this until Covid hit, when I started planning. Trevor Rowley from Optix gave me a nudge when he sent an email to several practices who were thinking the same, and we all made the jump at the same time."

Assessing the work that needed to be done to make the move a success, Anthony says: “We have had direct debits for contact lens wearers but we needed an affordable care plan for NHS patients.

Staff needed to be trained in the new model of care. The NHS contract had to end, and patients needed to be advised appropriately. The pandemic made everyone aware we were spending longer with patients, and longer cleaning, so people expected fees to go up.”

Anthony set up a care plan so people could make a small monthly payment for their eye examination, with discounts available for couples and families. He explains: “We are an ethical business, so I couldn’t ask NHS patients to pay extra for optical coherence tomography and

Anthony goes on: “I like optometry for its balance between clinical and business. It was a business decision to cancel the NHS contract. But we don’t want to lose our clinical prowess. As a business owner, you worry about conversion rates and average dispense rates. I still look at those, but now I don’t worry about breaking even.

"We can now afford to not sell glasses to someone. Our direct debits cover our bills, our staff. Every pair of glasses that we sell is profit," Anthony concludes.

PUSHED OVER THE EDGE Independent prescriber (IP) optometrist Claire Ranger is the owner of Hammond and Dummer in Milton Keynes.

Describing the practice, she says:

CLAIRE RANGER WITH A PATIENT

Optomap on top of the sight test fee.

And I didn’t want to see people unless that’s what they got.

"For those who had been used to paying for extra tests, monthly fees didn’t make it much more expensive.

People will pay for subscription services for entertainment without even noticing.

Your eyes are critical to enjoying all that.

And people who moved from the NHS to our new care plan found they were getting discounts on glasses. Some of the patients who paid nothing at all in the past may have decided we were not the practice for them – but from a business point of view they were costing us money."

practice owner, I don’t always have people to bounce ideas off so that makes a difference.”

Communication was the first challenge in making the move to private practice. Claire explains: “I needed to get all the staff on board. I asked their opinion on price and other issues, and I think I had a relatively easy ride. We changed reminder letters totally to explain what we had done, how we were improving, and how the patient would benefit.

"We now offer a payment scheme or people can pay as they go. The scheme covers all clinical care, emergency, repeat and a 10 per cent discount on spectacles.

The feedback has been positive. It is great to give everyone the best care, to

DISCUSS ANY PLANS WITH STAFF FIRST

“We do contact lenses, myopia management, tear clinics, IP and behavioural optometry. We want to be different, and to be able to look after people to the best of our ability. It became clear over time that the NHS wasn’t allowing us to do that.

“We’re a high-end practice, but I was surprised that 60 per cent of sight tests were NHS," Claire explains. "With Covid, PPE cost us 10 per cent of the NHS sight test fee. The 1.9 per cent pay rise was just a slap in the face. It pushed me over the edge.”

Claire was also part of the group of practice owners who made the move together this year. She says: “As a

know I’m doing the best eye exam I can.

Our percentage dispensed has dropped slightly, but the average spend on glasses has gone up. And I know that in Milton Keynes there are a lot of opticians offering NHS services, so there are other places people can go if they prefer.”

Claire’s advice for anyone considering the move is: “Make sure it is right for you, your patients and your staff. Look at the financials. I have heard that for some people income drops, but then it's regular monthly payments. You have to get a positive message across. Find someone who has done it, who you can talk to, and bounce ideas off them."

REFERENCE A POINT ON POLICY

1. Independent Marketing Partnership. www.opticalmarketing.co.uk/profits

ABDO’s head of policy and public affairs, Debbie McGill, says: “It is unfortunate that some ABDO members have no option but to terminate their NHS contracts due to the GOS contract not being adequately funded for the eye health care provided.

"ABDO continues to negotiate with NHS England to increase GOS fees, to pay practices for the vital, preventative eye health care provided to the most vulnerable patients in society.”

ANTONIA CHITTY PHD, MCOPTOM, MCIPR, MPRC is ABDO head of communications and IT and author of 20 books.

FEBRUARY 2022 DISPENSING OPTICS

23

IN PRACTICE – THINKING GREEN ANTONIA CHITTY

Sustainability steps for all f this is the year you and your practice plan to become more sustainable, read on. This article, from ABDO's Thinking Green campaign that works with you to make the optical world more sustainable, is the first in a new monthly series looking at practical tips to implement in practice.

Sustainability is an ongoing journey, whether you have been making small changes for some time or are just at the start. There is always something more that we can do to reduce our environmental impact. In this article, we look at sustainability activities for individuals, practices and businesses in the optical community.

I

Could everyone: • Choose items with less packaging like solid soap rather than liquid soap?

• Turn off lights when not in the room?

• Switch to reusable packaging for packed lunches?

• Use refillable water bottles and flasks?

In the longer term, could you move towards: • Going paperless for clinical records • Going paperless for accounts and invoicing • Reviewing your frame stock policy to avoid wastage • Reviewing your sundry stock policy to reduce wastage

REUSE, REFILL AND REPAIR

There are a number of key concepts to help you transition to a more sustainable practice (Figure 1). The first one is to refuse unnecessary items. On our sustainability journey, we can choose to refuse to accept or support products or companies that harm the environment.

Saying no to excess packaging is a great place to start. So this week, see which of your supplies are overpackaged or packaged in plastic. Start a conversation with your suppliers and ask them to cut their packaging. Look at items in your practice or business that are only used once too; think about alternatives and how you can say no to some of these items.

Next, we focus on how to reuse, refill and repair: three great ways to minimise the resources used in your practice or business. Sustainability is a team effort so if you work in a practice or a business, start a conversation. You can have an informal chat or make sustainability part of your FIGURE 1 regular team meeting; ideas and activities that everyone can buy into are more likely to succeed.

Then consider: • Reusing paper as scrap before shredding • Swapping to rechargeable batteries • Changing to refillable ink cartridges/toners next time you need them • How to reuse boxes, bubble wrap and jiffy bags or give to others to reuse

REDUCE: ENERGY AND WASTE

GO SOLO FOR SUSTAINABILITY

The next concept is looking at how you can reduce the resources used in your practice or business (Figure 2). Start with small ways you can reduce energy usage, water usage and waste creation. Talk with your team about ways to reduce the resources you use.

Thanks for joining the Thinking Green campaign to make the optical world more sustainable. So far we have focused on activities you can do in a practice or business, but there is plenty to do if you work on your own too. If you are a locum, or in another role where you work by

REFUSE: JUST SAY NO

24

DISPENSING OPTICS FEBRUARY 2022

SIMPLE CHANGES TO DAILY HABITS GO A LONG WAY

yourself, quick wins for you to do during your working week include: • Bringing your lunch in a reusable box or wrap rather than buying something prepackaged • Changing the way you travel: can you walk, cycle or use public transport some days?

• Using a refillable water bottle or bringing your own travel mug if you love a take-out coffee One of the most important things you can do is to be a sustainability advocate.

If you move from practice to practice, you are well placed to help share ideas with different teams and get the conversation going about how to become more sustainable. You can also be a problem solver and share details of local schemes for recycling with practices who have yet to start. Help each place you work find one thing they can do to be more sustainable, and you will make a big difference.

WHAT NEXT? This article includes some of the tips you will receive after completing ABDO's Sustainability Self-assessment Tool at www.abdo.org.uk/sustainabilityquestionnaire. This is a great place to start your journey to a more sustainable practice in 2022. You can also opt in to get tips to your inbox each week. We’d love to hear how you are getting on with your sustainability activities, so please do share on social media and use the hashtag #thinkinggreen and let us know.

PREVIEW – STUDENT REVISION EVENT 22-23 MARCH 2022

Revision event returns

he ABDO Examinations Department is looking forward to bringing back its face-to-face practical revision event for final year students next month – Covid rules and regulations permitting. Taking place on 22 and 23 March at Yarnfield Training and Conference Centre in Stone, Staffordshire, the two-day event, sponsored by Hoya and Stepper, is tailored to Unit 12 of the 2015 Level 6 Diploma in Ophthalmic Dispensing.

Revision will utilise a variety of methods, including lecture, hands-on practical, peer discussion and visual recognition, covering all sections of the Unit 12 (FQE practical) training – including case records and general examination technique.

Created and designed by Alicia Thompson, ABDO director of professional examinations, this is the only revision event delivered by the ABDO Examinations Department using ABDO practical examiners.

T

TACKLING PRESCRIPTION ANALYSIS

INTENSE YET INFORMAL Alicia said: "Now in its seventh year, this not-to-be-missed revision event will give students access to great expertise – as each tutor is both a current and experienced ABDO practical examiner.

We have produced our own training kit with answers to allow students to practise developing technique and gain an

understanding of what is required. They can be confident that any information received will be both accurate and up-to-date."

Feedback from students attending the revision event over the years has been consistently complimentary. "The event is fairly intense," Alicia explains, "as we pack in lots of activity to give students the chance to discover the areas they need to focus their revision on. Due to the informal nature of the event, they also experience the exams staff welcoming them as colleagues and supporting them in any way they can to achieve exam success at the first attempt.”

The format for each section is planned to be as follows: SECTION A1/A2: full practical practice session including answers SECTION A3: full practical opportunity to practise all six repair options SECTION B: all dispensing practice, including facial measurements, paediatric and bespoke progressive dispensing SECTION C: prescription analysis delivered as a peer discussion, delving into all the topics covered by the three vivavoce assessments SECTION D: an interactive lecture on all elements of Section D, followed on day two by a timed OSCE (objective structured clinical examination) style assessment with answers PORTFOLIO: this interactive lecture explores sample case records to appraise and discuss, followed by a Q&A session to help advise on specific cases EXAM TECHNIQUE: communication skills are an important aspect of preparation for each section, how to manage time, how to write, and how to approach the vivasections, for example A fun charity poster quiz and raffle will be held on the Tuesday evening in aid of the Guide Dogs for the Blind Association with a BBQ meal and a live band.

The cost of the event is £155 and includes accommodation for one night, breakfast, lunch and refreshments.

Bookings close at the end of February and can be made in the Events section of the ABDO website.

PRACTISING FITTING TECHNIQUES

"Numbers are limited so please book early," Alicia advises – adding: "ABDO would like to sincerely thank Hoya and Stepper for their generosity in supporting the event this year. If any other sponsors would like to be involved, please contact me direct by emailing athompson@abdo.org.uk."

Register for the 2022 Student Revision Event on the ABDO website under Events.

HERE IS JUST SOME OF THE FEEDBACK FROM PAST STUDENTS...

"A great event which I really enjoyed: would recommend to other trainee dispensing opticians" "A really good event in helping to prepare for the exams. It also helped make the examiners seem more 'normal' – and less scary" "The drop-in sessions for the second morning helped consolidate learning – especially with regard to prescription analysis" "Nice to have down-time and networking in the evening" "Really useful, very well-run event thank you. Amazing value for the cost per person too" "It has been amazing – and really good to clear up exam myths" "Brilliant few days, examiners were amazing and made me feel comfortable and more confident for the coming exam"

FEBRUARY 2022 DISPENSING OPTICS

25

EMPLOYMENT – CAREERS IN EYECARE WEBSITE & AWARD

Engaging young people areers in Eyecare, ABDO's awardwinning campaign, has a new website – at www.careersineyecare.org.uk – providing young people, parents and carers, employers and careers teachers with ready access to all essential resources.

Building on the campaign's existing partnership with Youth Employment UK (YEUK), the site covers a multitude of eyecare careers including: contact lens optician, dispensing optician, eye clinic liaison officer, low vision optician, optical assistant, optical laboratory technician, optical practice manager, optical sales representative, ophthalmologist, ophthalmic nurse, optometrist and orthoptist. More careers will be highlighted during the year.

Visitors to the site can find a range of resources including: • Career guides • Information about apprenticeships • Tips to help with study • Advice on finding work • Day in the life case studies • Work experience resources for young people and employers • Guides for professionals on becoming a STEM ambassador, plus lesson plans

C

GIVING YOUNG PEOPLE THE RESOURCES THEY NEED

The Careers in Eyecare campaign promotes careers across the sector, highlighting the range of clinical, fashion, design, technical and retail roles available. It was launched in 2020 and maximises the use of social media to reach out to young people, parents and careers advisers, and those looking to change career.

Antonia Chitty, ABDO head of communications and IT, explains more: “Over the past two years, we have developed a great range of materials, and it is fantastic to be able to host these all in one website.

“There is a great range of careers available in eyecare, and we want every young person to aware of their options. There are plenty of entry level

26

DISPENSING OPTICS FEBRUARY 2022

opportunities and a solid career pathway, ensuring every young person who enters the world of eyecare can develop their skills, achieve qualifications, and reach their full potential.

"This new website will build on the YEUK Careers in Eyecare Hub, and the extensive links we have on social media. We’re looking forward to a great 2022 for the campaign," added Antonia.

INDUSTRY RECOGNITION The launch of the new website follows another win for the Careers in Eyecare campaign in the annual YEUK Youth Friendly Employer Awards. For the second year running, the MIMS DAVIES MP campaign took home an award – this year the Creating Opportunity #YouthFriendlyEmployer Award, presented on 7 December by the government's minister for employment, Mims Davies MP, in an online ceremony.

Laura-Jane Rawlings, CEO of YEUK, said: “ABDO has provided opportunities for young people to gain the skills and experience they need, raising their aspirations and personal networks. As the 2021 Creating Opportunity #YouthFriendlyEmployer Award winner, it has collated industry and professional partners to highlight eyecare careers. Its campaign has reached over 8,000 professionals to help guide them on creating youth opportunities.”

Responding to the award at the event, Antonia Chitty, said: “We are thrilled to receive this award. We couldn’t have done it without the widest support from across the eyecare community. A particular thank you must go to our sponsors, Stepper, Specsavers and Woodspeen Training, who have backed the campaign in 2021 and allowed us to extend our reach."

Nick Walsh, ABDO head of corporate development, added: "We identified Youth Employment UK as a key partner for our campaign two years ago because of its existing careers hub and the way it ensures that young people have a voice in shaping their activities.

"This is an incredibly valuable partnership for ABDO, and it is great that Youth Employment UK has recognised ABDO’s commitment to highlighting careers with this award. We look forward to taking Careers in Eyecare further in future and welcome support from anyone in the eyecare and eyewear sector."

Find out more about ABDO's Careers in Eyecare campaign at www.careersineyecare.org.uk and on the YEUK careers hub. The campaign can also be found on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram.

IN PRACTICE – HR EQUALITY, DIVERSITY & INCLUSION

EDI: all things being equal quality, diversity and inclusion (EDI) is an issue for both employers and employees.

This article will help you ascertain whether your practice policies are current, or if you have concerns about them. You will learn about legalities in relation to equality, diversity and inclusion as well as best practice for employers and employees.

The Equality Act (2010) harmonises and replaces previous legislation, such as the Race Relations Act 1976 and the Disability Discrimination Act 1995. The Act covers the 'protected characteristics’ of: age; disability; gender reassignment; race; religion or belief; sex; sexual orientation; marriage and civil partnership; and pregnancy and maternity.

It also extends some protections to characteristics that were not previously covered, and strengthens particular aspects of equality law.

The Equality Act (2010) prohibits discrimination (whether direct or indirect) against people who possess one of the protected characteristics. It also prohibits the harassment and victimisation of such people.

E

What is direct discrimination?

Direct discrimination takes place where a person treats another person, who has a protected characteristic, less favourably than they would treat others not possessing the protected characteristic.

The following types of conduct are examples that will amount to less favourable treatment: not having an employee see a patient by reason of their race; and less favourable treatment of a woman who is breast-feeding.

What is indirect discrimination?

Indirect discrimination occurs where a provision, criterion or practice is applied which is discriminatory in relation to a protected characteristic. This includes conduct, which is applied or would apply to persons who do not share the

characteristic in question, and conduct which puts or would put a person possessing a protected characteristic at a particular disadvantage.

What is harassment?

Harassment occurs where a person is subjected to unwanted conduct related to a relevant protected characteristic, which has the purpose or effect of violating dignity, or creating an intimidating, hostile, degrading, humiliating or offensive environment. This can include unwanted conduct of a sexual nature or that is related to gender reassignment or sex.

The provisions contained in the Act relating to harassment do not apply to the protected characteristics of pregnancy and maternity, and marriage and civil partnership.

What is victimisation?

Victimisation occurs where a person is subjected to a detriment by reason of carrying out one of the following acts: • Brought or given evidence or information in proceedings brought under the Act • Done something for the purposes of, or in connection with, the Act (this will include committing a breach of an equality clause or rule) • Making an allegation that a person has contravened the Act However, giving false evidence or information, or making a false allegation is not protected by the Act if it is given or made in bad faith.

The Act covers a wide range of circumstances and contains detailed provisions prohibiting discrimination, harassment and victimisation in the following situations: • Where services are provided to the public • In relation to the disposal, occupation and management of premises • In the workplace • In schools and further and higher education institutions • In relation to associations

What is diversity?

Every culture, every nationality, every single person sees the world in a different way. Similarly, every culture, nationality, and person has different knowledge, perspectives and points of view. When all of these different views are shared and considered together, it enables better understanding and respect for each other’s differences, in life as well as the workplace.

This drives innovation and creativity.

THE EQUALITY ACT (2010) COVERS 'PROTECTED CHARACTERISTICS’

What is inclusion?

Inclusion is about how well the contributions, presence and perspectives of different groups of people are valued and integrated into an environment.

All employers should be aware of, and make their employees aware of, the Equality Act 2010 and understand their responsibilities in providing equal opportunities to their staff and potential staff.

We recommend, as best practice, that employers Introduce an equality and diversity policy which includes a copy of the Equality Act 2010, along with your company’s statement on equality and diversity and expectations in relation to staff behaviour. Read ABDO’s full guidance for more explanation and an example of what you might include.

To understand the issue more fully and read about recruitment of staff and your NHS obligations in relation to EDI, read ABDO’s recently-updated EDI policy at www.abdo.org.uk/regulation-andpolicy/edi. You will also find links to more information on the topic.

FEBRUARY 2022 DISPENSING OPTICS

27

OUTSIDE PRACTICE – DO'ING SOMETHING DIFFERENT NAYNA KANABAR & MARISHA RAYNER

Foodie adventures e continue our regular new series on dispensing opticians 'DO'ing something different' by putting fellow 'foodies' – Nayna Kanabar and Marisha Rayner – in the spotlight. Nayna and Marisha share a passion for food and cookery, and when not working in practice can be found in the kitchen and sharing foodie content, tips and recipes online.

Qualified dispensing optician Nayna currently works in an independent practice three days a week, before which she worked in a multiple for 23 years. Nayna has also been a food blogger for almost 14 years – and when the Covid19 pandemic hit, she took her creativity around food to the next level.

“I started my cooking YouTube channel during lockdown in 2020," she says, "and I now teach vegetarian and vegan cookery classes.”

Nayna continues: “I have always been passionate about food and I have a vegetarian food blog, where I share a range of recipes from all over the world. I develop, cook, present, style and photograph all my own recipes to feature on my blog. I also share my recipes on my Instagram page.

W

NAYNA BUSY IN HER KITCHEN

NAYNA'S VEGETABLE GYOZO

"During the first lockdown, whilst I was furloughed, I brushed up on my filming and video editing skills by watching YouTube and started a YouTube vegetarian cookery channel as an extension to my blog."

Nayna started teaching vegetarian and vegan cookery classes three years ago, and when lockdown happened shifted the classes online via Zoom. "I have also written two cookbooks, 50 Quick and Easy Vegetarian Snacks and 50 Dishes with Potatoes, in collaboration with a publishing company.

"I enjoy being a dispensing optician, but I decided to reduce my working days to three days to allow me time to pursue my food passion.”

Visit Nayna's Simply Food blog at www.simplysensationalfood.com

28

DISPENSING OPTICS FEBRUARY 2022

ONE OF MARISHA'S BAKING CREATIONS

GREAT OPTICS BAKE OFF Full-time dispensing optician Marisha Rayner started baking during her first year at ABDO College to help her take a break from studying. During lockdown last year, she started a cooking blog on Instagram.

Marisha says: “I'd always thought about having a go at doing a cooking blog, but never seemed to have the chance to do. So, with lockdown, I thought why not?"

Last year, Marisha developed her cooking and baking further, attempting recipes she'd never tried before. "I tried recipes from cookbooks, and completed some of the Great British Bake Off Challenges such as babkas and rainbow bagels. I've even been lucky to have some of my dishes 'liked' on social media by Chris Baber, who is currently doing the M&S Food adverts, and was recently tagged on one of MARISHA WITH his 'stories'.

HER RISSOLES "One of my cakes was reposted onto the BBC Good Food Instagram page and it's been 'liked' by more than 3,500 people, which feels like a massive achievement in my cooking adventures.

"Since lockdowns have lifted, I still manage to keep an active cooking and reviewing blog on my Instagram page – called @cooking_with_marisha – whilst being a full-time dispensing optician at Specsavers Swansea in South Wales.

"I know my colleagues love if I've been baking. I even managed to do some eyeball cupcakes for Halloween last year. I really enjoy discussing my cooking with people and sharing ideas I've tried and recipes I've used," Marisha adds.

Read more articles about dispensing opticians 'DO'ing something different' on DO Online.

EYECARE FAQ

OA CORNER PART 14

SOCIAL MEDIA TIPS: LOW VISION IN FOCUS

OCCUPATIONAL DISPENSING In Optical Assistant (OA) Corner Part 13, we looked at dispensing occupational bifocals and single vision intermediate lenses focusing on our case study, 58-yearold computer user Sally.

This month, we look at the differences between – and benefits of – occupational progressive addition lenses (OPALS) and enhanced reading lenses. We will then determine which of these lens types would work best for Sally, through careful questioning and enhanced knowledge. Utilising such methods will ensure you are able to determine the best outcome for your patients.

Read OA Corner Part 14 on DO Online.

Low Vision

what you need to know

Low vision specialists can offer magnifiers or other technology to help

ebruary is Low Vision Awareness Month, which is a great opportunity to promote your low vision services.

EyecareFAQ has a selection of FAQs and graphics to help you start the conversion with your patients on your social media platforms. Some suggested social media posts include: "Do you need advice on your low vision? We can help"; "What is low vision? Find out here" [www.abdo.org.uk/eyecarefaq/low-vision]; and "Ask us about low vision aids". Use the hashtags: #eyecare and #lowvision.

Find Q&As on more topics in the Eyecare FAQ section of the ABDO website and graphics in the EyecareFAQ resources for members section. Find EyecareFAQ on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest and Instagram too.

F

WORKING DISTANCE IS ESSENTIAL INFORMATION

BUSINESS BITES

TRAINING FOR A STRONGER FUTURE Training and development for managers, prospective managers and leaders can often get overlooked. But it is as important for this development to take place as it is to develop your clinical team members. Five good reasons for engaging with ABDO’s Management & Leadership Training courses include:

1. BETTER EMPLOYEE ENGAGEMENT Giving feedback is a skill of successful leaders. Through management training, managers can learn effective ways to provide feedback to motivate and increase the skill level of their people.

2. BETTER PRODUCTIVITY Well-trained managers can set realistic goals, develop strategic work plans and make good decisions quickly. Structured training will teach managers how to understand and learn about their team members to obtain the best results from everyone.

3. EFFECTIVE MANAGEMENT STYLE Management training teaches managers to review their management style and assess and understand the effectiveness of it within the business. This enables managers to understand how

they can lead their teams in the most effective way, with the result being a motivated and productive team with minimum conflict.

4. IMPROVED STAFF RETENTION There can also be benefit in training your managers in the form of a ripple effect. Improving the outcomes of training delivered to the team can boost morale and staff loyalty. By investing in management training, you can retain your people and reduce recruitment costs.

5. BETTER DECISION MAKING Management training teaches leaders how to identify and minimise risk, use data effectively and identify the best possible solutions that benefit the business overall. Decision-making skills can be improved through training, for example, how to reframe a problem and make evidence-based decisions.

Applications are open from now until 4 April for study commencing on 1 May 2022. Visit www.abdo.org.uk/businesshub/mlt for more information about the ABDO Level 5 courses in Management & Leadership. ABDO members get a discounted rate compared to non-members.

FEBRUARY 2022 DISPENSING OPTICS

29

NOTICES

COULD YOU PEN A JOTTINGS? Would you like to write a Jottings article for Dispensing Optics?

Jottings are 700-word, first-person features that give members the chance to write about subjects and issues that are important to them in their professional life. They could be about career journeys, new skills being put into practice, further education or thoughts on 'hot topics'.

If you'd like to propose or submit a Jottings, or would like more details, please email the editor at ncollinson@abdo.org.uk

CALL FOR

ECO CASE STUDIES

Are you, your practice or your optical business helping to make the sector greener?

Why not share your work towards sustainability in the ABDO SEE Hub?

Add your case study to the SEE Hub at www.abdo.org.uk/dashboard/see-hub/see-hubcase-study

Visit DO Online Jobs Vacancies to place your recruitment adverts – or search for new opportunities. Your advert will reach some 8,000 ABDO members via eNews direct, making DO Online one of the most cost-effective platforms for DO recruitment.

Vacancies are also promoted through ABDO’s active social media channels. FREE BRONZE ADVERTS FOR MEMBERS.

30

DISPENSING OPTICS FEBRUARY 2022

E TA K

CH

COLLEGE

M

AR

N

IN

EW

abdo

Contact Lenses What’s your next step in optics?

The ABDO College Contact Lens Certificate course is an ideal opportunity for you to further your career by specialising in contact lenses.

It leads to the ABDO Level 6 Certificate in Contact Lens Practice qualification, enabling you to join on the General Optical Council specialty register for contact lens dispensing.

Course features • A minimum one year course commencing in March 2022 • Two separate weeks block release at Godmersham

Entry requirements • ABDO Fellowship Diploma and GOC registration. Existing students may also apply subject to successfully passing the Final Qualifying Exams immediately preceding tha start of the course.

• Qualified, registered optometrists and ophthalmologists are also eligible to enrol

For more details and to apply: visit www.abdocollege.org.uk call 01227 738 829 (Option 1) or email info@abdocollege.org.uk Applications close: 27th February 2022

KEEPING EXCELLENCE IN YOUR SIGHTS

MANAGEMENT & LEADERSHIP TRAINING COURSES Take your career to the next level in 2022 ABDO Management & Leadership training is a great way to turn your informal learning and management skills into a recognised qualification.

• Study online with tutor support • Develop your management and leadership skills • Recognised Level 5 CMI qualification Applications close 4 April for the May 2022 intake COURSES ON OFFER: • Management and Leadership Diploma • Management Essentials Certificate • Continuing Improvement Certificate • Growing Leader Certificate DISCOUNT FOR ABDO MEMBERS

Find out more and apply at www.abdo.org.uk/mlt