Vision Now July 2018

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VV JULY 2018

Vision Now magazine

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Inside

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Vision Now magazine is published by Peekay Publishing Ltd for The PK National Eyecare Group Ltd, the UK’s largest purchasing group for independent opticians.

29 24

News 4 7 9 11 13 14

APPG calls for urgent action on eye health Clinical experience need identified ABDO opens National Resource Centre Ortho-k masterclasses now booking Contact Lens Specialist Club launched GOC speeds up FTP process

19 Developing thoughts Is your biggest investment your biggest asset?

21 NEG/iDay 2018 Balancing eyecare and eyewear

23 An independent view Defining moment for sector

24 Business view Is optical innovation killing your business?

26 Low vision Giving patients their sight back

28 Style Spotlight Wondrous eyewear for youngsters

30 Suppliers’ directory @PK_NEG

Editor’s comment With the summer lull approaching, you might find a quiet moment to think about areas of your business you wouldn’t normally have the time to. Keeping staff (both professional and front-of-house) up-to-date with education and training may be one area that gets overlooked in the hectic day-to-day running of a busy practice.

But as Phil Mullins points out in this month’s Developing Thoughts (page 19), neglecting to do so could cost you dear.

Another area sometimes ignored is social media. If, by now, your business is not on some form of social media platform then you could be missing out on a whole host of business opportunities. Indeed, the latest marketing update from SPECS network, which supports independent practices with collective social media marketing activities, revealed that from October 2017 to March 2018 promotional activities elicited 1,130 Tweets, 1.82 million impressions, 970 Facebook posts, and 742,000 people reached.

But there are plenty of strategies to keep productivity on track whatever the season. One such is to ensure your business has a resilient (all-weather) retail presence, as Liam Franklin of Orta writes this month (page 24). Advanced knowledge and offering patients the latest technology, both product wise and in the consulting room, could make all the difference to revenue, loyalty and longevity.

Elsewhere this month, we get the low-down on this year’s joint NEG/Independents Day conference – which hits the road in October (page 21); we hear about the SightPlus solution helping low vision patients regain their sight (page 26), and discover some wonderful eyewear styles for youngsters (page 28). Don’t forget we will be taking a break next month, but we’ll be back in September with all the latest from NEG’s preferred suppliers and partners in business. Until then, enjoy the summer!

Nicky Collinson

Editor

Nicky Collinson BA (Hons) ncollinson@nationaleyecare.co.uk

Editor

Editorial PA

Sharon Hicks s.hicks@nationaleyecare.co.uk

Fashion Editor

Joan Grady jgparischats@wanadoo.fr

The Editor welcomes letters, articles and other contributions for publication in the magazine and reserves the right to amend them. Any such contribution, whether it bears the author’s name, initials or pseudonym, is accepted on the understanding that its author is responsible for the opinions expressed in it and that its publication does not imply that such opinions are those of The PK National Eyecare Group Ltd. Articles submitted for publication should be original, unpublished work and are accepted on the basis that they will not be published in any other journal. Acceptance of materialfor publication is not a guarantee that it will be included in any particular issue.

Copyright © 2018 for Peekay Publishing Ltd. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, including photocopying and recording, without the written permission of the publishers. Such written permission should also be obtained before any part of this publication is stored in a retrieval system of any nature.

Business Editor Phillip Mullins FBDO p.mullins@nationaleyecare.co.uk Design and Production

Rosslyn Argent BA (Hons)

Publisher

Michael C Wheeler FCOptom DipCLP FSMC FAAO VISION NOW is published by Peekay Publishing Ltd for The PK National Eyecare Group Limited, Clermont House, Cranbrook, Kent TN17 3DN VISION NOW is printed by P&P Litho Ltd, Ashford, Middlesex TW15 1AB

Vision Now JULY 2018

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NEWS 1

Alcon

New education day launched

Alcon has launched a new education day at the Alcon Academy, Managing Astigmatism.

Designed principally for optometrists and contact lens opticians, the full-day course offers eight CET points, with dispensing opticians also welcome. The dates are 18 July, 19 and 25 September, 17 October, and 21 and 27 November, with the day comprising of skills workshops, peer discussions and lectures.

The morning will explore astigmatism in all its forms and what ocular conditions and pathologies may be associated with it, and a peer discussion session, while the afternoon will include a skills workshop allowing delegates to consider who, when and how they choose to fit toric contact lenses and how to assess and measure astigmatism in contact lens fitting.

Following this, a ‘curve ball’ session will allow delegates to explore how they would assess and manage various astigmatic patients in a range of cases.

Jonathon Bench, head of professional affairs at Alcon, said: “The latest addition to our education calendar demonstrates our continued passion in supporting and educating eyecare professionals. The new course, Managing Astigmatism, offers optometrists the chance to learn about a familiar, yet important, topic, enabling them to develop both their skills and their contact lens business.”

Places can be booked via Alcon business development managers.

4

Vision Now JULY 2018

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Royal National Institute of Blind People

An All-Party Parliamentary Group (APPG) on Eye Health and Visual Impairment Inquiry into capacity issues in eyecare has found that the current eye health system is failing patients on a grand scale. Up to 22 people per month are permanently losing sight due to delayed and cancelled hospital appointments for conditions like wet agerelated macular degeneration (AMD), glaucoma and diabetic eye disease. The situation is fixable if the NHS prioritises eye health and action is taken immediately, says the APPG. The APPG’s findings have been published in a report, See the light: Improving capacity in NHS eye care in England, which was launched at a parliamentary reception for MPs last month. The inquiry and its calls for urgent action are supported by the Royal National Institute of Blind People (RNIB), the Optical Confederation and the Royal College of Ophthalmologists. The inquiry received evidence from 557 patients and 112 organisations. There were almost 7.6 million ophthalmology appointments in 2016/17 in England, an increase of more than 10 per cent over the past four years.

Just over half of patients told the inquiry they had experienced at least one appointment or treatment being delayed.

Patients also expressed concerns about long waiting times, problems securing appointments, a lack of continuity in their

3

Eye health system failing, inquiry finds

care, and poor communication from the clinic. Lord David Blunkett, a member of the APPG inquiry, said: “World class treatments are now available for conditions like wet AMD. It is vital that patients have access to them at the right time to save their sight.

We have been able to identify a series of recommendations which will help improve capacity in eyecare. We are calling on the Secretary of State for Health and Social Care to include eye health in the NHS England mandate.” Read the report at www.rnib.org.uk/appginquiry

Eyespace

The newly-released 2018 catalogue from Eyespace introduces the new designer Land Rover optical collection alongside more than 260 releases from the company’s house brands. The 148-page glossy brochure has been developed exclusively for independent opticians in an easy-to-navigate format and with high quality, detailed frame visuals. The buying experience is further enhanced by lifestyle imagery that is available on request.

With the UK hosting some 900 music festivals every year, Eyespace is also currently offering a striking new window display kit, available with orders of Basebox and Rock Star frames, to enhance festival-themed practice windows.

Capitalising on festival season With mirrored lenses remaining popular, there are four new clip-on sunglass frames in the Basebox collection while for kids, Rock Star takes celebrity-inspired looks and translates them into retro-inspired designs – perfect for family festival-goers.

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Contact your Alcon® Business Development Manager or call Alcon® Customer Services on 0371 376 0017 (UK) or 0818 946 621 (ROI) to request point of sale for your practice

1. Perez-Gomez I, Giles T. European survey of contact lens wearers and eye care professionals on satisfaction with a new water gradient disposable contact lens. Clin Optom. 2014; 6:17-23.

12784 © 2018 Novartis. DAILIES TOTAL1, the DAILIES TOTAL1 logo, Alcon and the Alcon logo are trademarks of Novartis AG. GB/VC/VCG/06/18/0091

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NEWS 4

General Optical Council

5

Norville

7

Stepper

Most newly qualified optical professionals think they didn’t get enough clinical experience during the academic parts of their training, according to new General Optical Council (GOC) research. Sixty per cent of newly qualified optometrists felt that the amount of clinical experience they received during their degree course was insufficient.

However, only 26 per cent of newly qualified dispensing opticians felt as though the clinical experience received during their studies was insufficient. Most had continued to work whilst studying and were able to apply their learning in a practical way.

Gareth Hadley, chair of the GOC, said: “We already know from our recent Concepts and Principles public consultation that most stakeholders want to see more enhanced clinical experience for student optometrists and dispensing opticians. We now learn that newly qualified registrants, and particularly optometrists, recognise that they would have benefitted from more clinical experience during their education both to support patient care and their development as optical professionals. We are keen to work alongside stakeholders across the optical sector to address these practical challenges and ensure that optical students are receiving the education and training necessary to prepare them for their future roles.” The full research is available at www.optical.org

6

Delivering both fashion and comfort

Rx companion completed

Norville has unveiled its 11th edition of its Prescription Companion publication, which is now downloadable at www.norville.co.uk, after more than a year in production.

“It reflects the current fixation with UV and blue light and provides transmission and absorption data on many of the prime lenses linked to this fascinating and critical topic,” said a spokesperson.

Menicon

Menicon celebrated the launch of its new onsite training facility in Northampton with a free CET evening attended by 23 members of Northampton Local Optical Committee.

The first event in the new clinic featured lectures and discussions worth six CET points, with topics including the anterior eye and the visual recognition test. Peer discussions were also held on irregular corneas and fitting contact lenses, as well as myopia control. The private family company, David Thomas Contact Lenses, has had a facility on the Northampton site since 1985. Bought

by Menicon nearly 10 years ago, the site was expanded earlier this year with the extension of the offices and training spaces.

Menicon professional services manager, Josie Barlow, said: “The aim of the new facility is to provide future CET events covering a wide range of topics and skills, increase the

The Stepper STS-30023 (as worn by Saskia Stepper) combines a TX5 front with stainless steel sides – a combination that provides three key benefits, says the company.

Firstly, TX5 gives the designers almost unlimited colour choice to reflect the latest on-trend hues. Secondly, the front, being moulded into its final form, ensures the ergonomic bridge sits snugly on the nose and retains its shape over time. Thirdly, both materials are significantly lighter than their more regular alternatives, putting less pressure on the contact points of the face.

“I want wearers to have fun with their eyewear,” said Saskia, the creative force behind the brand. “Fun is a good feeling and with a StepperS you also get the additional good feeling of outstanding comfort. So – you look good and feel good.”

The STS-30023 is available in Olive Mottle, Midnight Blue and Black.

8

Josie Barlow at the inaugural CET event

confidence of practitioners in fitting RGP contact lenses and to provide training specific to our specialist lenses, for example our Rose K range and Menicon Z Night ortho-k.

We will also use it as a platform for launching future products, such as our new scleral lens later this year.” For more information, visit www.davidthomas.com or telephone 0160 464 6216.

Association of Contact Lens Manufacturers

The 2018 edition of the product manual of the Association of Contact Lens Manufacturers (ACLM) can now be ordered via the ACLM website, www.aclm.org.uk.

Alternatively, join the British Contact Lens Association to receive a free copy as part of the membership package.

The Contact Lens Year Book lists technical details for all the contact lenses, solutions and materials produced by ACLM member companies, and covers the overwhelming bulk of products available in the UK. There are also articles on how to retain patients, manage their concerns on presbyopia, the latest statistics on the UK contact lens market, as well as the usual handy reference tables.

Vision Now JULY 2018

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NEWS 9

Association of British Dispensing Opticians

11 CooperVision

Dr Dumbleton (left) with CooperVision’s Mark Draper and Debbie Olive ABDO board visits new training facility

Board members of the Association of British Dispensing Opticians (ABDO) visited the Association’s new flagship National Resource Centre (NRC) recently just as the first cohort of students sat their practical exams in ophthalmic dispensing at the new location in Birmingham. Alicia Thompson, ABDO director of professional examinations, said: “The ABDO National Resource Centre is without doubt among the very best of the optical training centres available in the UK today. Sourcing the most advanced technology we have brought together the best in ophthalmic instrumentation coupled with cutting edge conferencing facilities including the use of Clevertouch presenting.”

The ABDO NRC clinical facilities feature a wide range of equipment for dispensing, refraction, contact lenses, screening, minor eye conditions services and glazing. Ten clinical bays are equipped for refraction and contact lenses including one with CCTV recording facilities. This enables the production of training material as well as the live streaming of any current actions happening in the consulting room to an audience of up to 235 delegates in other areas of the centre, viewing via a number of large TV screens.

10 International Eyewear

A new model from the Hymphrey’s collection

To help celebrate its 30th anniversary, International Eyewear has launched a special edition Collection 2018 brochure. Wrapped in a purple cover, inspired by Pantone’s colour of the year, the brochure features inventive and imaginative new releases to all collections.

A spokesperson said: “Embracing our home city of Birmingham, 2018 brings the launch of our #lovebirmingham initiative. Honouring our roots, the refreshed brochure imagery has been captured at locations throughout the city. Including the iconic Custard Factory graffiti featured in our urban Eyestuff campaign, showcasing 20 new innovative styles for the young and young hearted.” Styles can be viewed on the company’s new website at www.internationaleyewear.co.uk

A keynote presentation by renowned clinical scientist and educator, Dr Kathy Dumbleton, at a recent CooperVision education event in London, included information selected to help eyecare practitioners (ECPs) understand how a patient’s wearing experience can be improved with silicone hydrogel daily disposable contact lenses. She also reviewed published clinical data on why silicone hydrogel is the material of choice, even in a daily modality.

During the evening, CooperVision shared findings from its recent large-scale consumer research project highlighting the emotional benefits of contact lenses. This included: eight out of 10 contact lens wearers associated a sense of freedom, confidence or adventure with contact lenses; eight out of 10 patients felt that having both contact lenses and glasses gave them the best of both worlds; and 65 per cent of contact lens wearers would definitely be more likely to recommend their ECP if they told them they were suitable for contact lenses as well as glasses.

Senior marketing manager at CooperVision, Lara Drury, commented: “Our Unlock the Potential event in London was the perfect opportunity for ECPs to find out more about the benefits of prescribing silicone hydrogel daily disposable contact lenses for their patients. We were delighted to be able to share our most recent consumer insights and premiere a number of inspiring testimonials from real patients who have experienced the benefits for themselves.”

Vision Now JULY 2018

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View the collection online: www.norville.co.uk

MZ060 c1

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NEWS 12 Silhouette

14 No7 Contact Lenses No7 is holding a series of CET accredited masterclasses during the summer at its new training suite focusing on fitting specialist contact lenses – including EyeDream. The Hastings lab and training centre will host ortho-k training days on 5 and 19 July, and 2 and 16 August, offering three CET points and covering all aspects of patient selection and engagement, topography image acquisition, and fitting.

Titanium meets Horn for men

Silhouette’s new Atelier collection for 2018, Pure Elegance, features sustainably-sourced buffalo horn for the first time. The material warms to the body’s temperature to provide additional comfort, whilst remaining both allergen-free and skin-friendly. The new material makes its debut alongside the brand’s iconic high-tech titanium and 18-carat solid gold to create an array of hand-crafted full frame fronts and rimless and supra eyewear. Dedicated to delivering the highest quality craftsmanship, 80 per cent of the frames are created by hand.

The range introduces nine new models for both men and women, across the following three collections: Titanium meets Horn for men; Horn X Art for men and Horn X Art for women.

13 Heidelberg Engineering conference in Honolulu, Hawaii. The studies reported better sensitivity and visualisation of a number of pathologies using the Spectralis MultiColor Module in comparison to colour fundus photography.

Images of the same eye taken using A) Topcon TRC-50DX; B) Spectralis MultiColor Module; and C) Optos P200 (Amit Meshi et al)

A number of international studies evaluating the sensitivity of Spectralis MultiColor confocal scanning laser ophthalmoscopy vs. colour fundus photography were presented at the recent Association for Vision and Research in Ophthalmology (ARVO) 2018

The Spectralis MultiColor Module uses three laser wavelengths simultaneously and a 3.5μm/pixel resolution to provide diagnostic images that show distinct structures at different depths within the retina and clearer images than conventional colour fundus photography. Amit Meshi of the University of San Diego et al compared retinal pathology visualisation and detection between the Spectralis MultiColor Module, Optos P200 and Topcon TRC-50DX. The authors concluded that whilst overall detection rate of retinal pathology was similar across all three devices, a larger area of macular involvement and significantly better epiretinal membrane visualisation was noted in the Spectralis.

Delivered by No7’s professional services team, the training days also provide the opportunity to visit No7’s specialist lab where the bespoke lenses are manufactured. Minisclerals, hybrid lenses, therapeutic and hand painted lenses will also be covered at masterclasses on 9 and 23 August (worth four CET points). To secure a place or find out more email karen.barry@no7contactlenses.com * Jon Saunders has been promoted to EyeDream account manager at No7, reflecting growing demand for the ortho-k vision correction lenses. Jon said: “We are concentrating on front-of-house training for EyeDream to ensure that everyone in the practice is able to promote the great benefits that ortho-k offers.

Myopia control is a major topic which we are focusing on with education, information and marketing support.”

Jon Saunders

15 General Optical Council An interim chief executive (CE) and registrar has been appointed at the General Optical Council (GOC) to take over while Vicky McDermott is on a leave of absence. Adam Sampson is an experienced CE with an

extensive background in the charity and not-for-profit sectors.

He said: “I am joining the GOC at what is clearly an exciting and important time for

the organisation and for the optical sector as a whole. I’m looking forward to working with my new colleagues to make sure the GOC continues with this vital work until Vicky returns.”

Vision Now JULY 2018

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WHEN

PERFORMANCE

MATTERS

YOU NEED A CONTACT LENS TO MATCH

MyDay® daily disposable contact lenses When contact lens wearers demand high performance, don’t compromise. Recommend MyDay® daily disposable with Smart Silicone chemistry™ – achieving softness and high breathability with less raw silicon.

FOR COMFORT Our softest-ever silicone hydrogel daily disposable with built-in moisture throughout the entire lens for all-day comfort.

FOR HEALTH Highly breathable to deliver all the oxygen eyes need.1 Plus, UV protection* for added peace of mind.

www.coopervision.co.uk

FOR VISION Powered by the same high performance optics developed for our Biofinity® range for outstanding visual acuity.

FOR CONVENIENCE Soft, yet designed to be easy to handle, plus a fresh new pair of lenses every day.

8mX`cXYc\ `e jg_\i\ Xe[ kfi`Z 8mX`cXYc\ `e jg_\i\ Xe[ kfi`Z

*. Warning: UV-absorbing contact lenses are not substitutes for protective UV-absorbing eyewear, such as UV-absorbing goggles or sunglasses, because they do not completely cover the eye and surrounding area. Patients should continue to use UV-absorbing eyewear as directed. 1. Brennan NA: Beyond Flux: Total Corneal Oxygen Consumption as an Index of Corneal Oxygenation During Contact Lens Wear. Optom Vis Sci 2005.

MyDay® is a registered trademark of The Cooper Companies Inc. and its subsidiaries. © CooperVision 2018.

NEWS 16 British Contact Lens Association

18 Positive Impact The inaugural meeting of the newly-formed Specialist Club takes place in London this month, with the support of SynergEyes UK, UltraVision and Menicon. Established by Positive Impact, the Club’s first meeting on 9 July focuses on specialist and niche contact lenses and will offer delegates up to eight CET points, as well as free contact lens vouchers from supporting companies.

BCLA conference set to return to Manchester Central

Save the dates (30 May to 1 June) for the 2019 British Contact Lens Association (BCLA) conference and exhibition as the event is all set for a return to Manchester. The three-day meeting is undergoing a change in format, running from the Thursday to Saturday, and will culminate in the grand finale of an awards dinner on the Saturday night.

BCLA chief executive, Cheryl Donnelly, said: “We are thrilled to be heading back to Manchester Central for the 2019 clinical conference and exhibition. It promises to be a weekend to remember, featuring a host of passionate speakers who can inspire eyecare professionals to make a real difference to patients’ lives. We will be staging a number of practical hands-on workshops showcasing the very latest techniques in the field of contact lenses and the anterior eye and the exhibition will feature innovation and up-to-the-minute technology from the world’s leading manufacturers and suppliers.”

17 Charmant

Parisian flair with Elle

The latest optical styles in the Elle collection by Charmant reflect the Parisian lifestyle for women exemplifying diversity, flair, beauty and passion. The collection offers fashionable contrasts by weaving edgy geometric forms and fresh colour takes into svelte and feminine frames. The latest line-up displays slender metal designs in contemporary hues, and elegant style statements in all-over Havana, soft gradients or colour interplays. Metal model EL13450 (pictured) is svelte, feminine and light. The style’s clean lines are accentuated by the harmonious play of colours on the temples. Colour choices include elegant black and brown or striking pink.

Positive Impact’s director of marketing and professional services, Nick Atkins, said: “The Specialist Club seminar will be focused on getting practitioners more confident in the fitting of a variety of contact lenses for those patients who are not run of the mill.

It will be a collaboration of specialist contact lens manufacturers with the aim of making it a must attend event for anyone in contact lens practice. Assuming this first event is a success, we will consider repeating it around the country in the second half of the year.” For more information, email specialistclub@positiveimpact.co.uk or telephone 01424 817 035.

19 SynergEyes SynergEyes is teaming up with the Brien Holden Vision Institute (BHVI) to deliver advanced, customised vision correction for myopes and presbyopes. The exclusive worldwide licensing agreement will enable the manufacturing of design technologies developed by the BHVI, augmenting the SynergEyes presbyopic package by offering the latest designs on the hybrid contact lens platform.

“SynergEyes seeks to improve the qualityof-life for people by delivering on the hybrid platform innovative lens designs that solve age-old problems in a new way,” said James Kirchner, president and CEO of SynergEyes. “Working with a recognised worldwide leader like the Brien Holden Vision Institute, we plan to bring an extended depth-of-focus lens design onto the hybrid platform to the global market.”

The BHVI has developed new optical designs that incorporate an extended depth of focus (EDOF) to provide optimal visual performance from distance to near with minimal ghosting.

The EDOF lens provides a series of smooth, non-monotonic, power variations across the optic zone to deliberately manipulate multiple higher-order aberrations.

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NEWS 20 Eyespace

22

Association of British Dispensing Opticians

Getting ready for MECS accreditation

CM9067 C1 in flattering taupe

Adding a chic, trend-led touch to any ensemble, new cocoa mint release from Eyespace, model CM9067, blends the latest eyewear trends with signature cocoa mint style. The style has been given a luxurious upgrade via its highly polished premium acetate front and complementary metal temples, which give a nod to the ombre trend. Subtle Cocoa Mint branding on the trim adds to the designer appeal. Offered in size 50-19-135, this model is available in flattering taupe (C1) or a high-fashion gloss black (C2).

21 Myers La Roche Myers La Roche has appointed Paul Walters as its new sales and marketing consultant as part of its expansion plans. He will focus on helping to match the company’s wide range of services to its customers, from assistance with business start-ups or acquisitions, audiology, growth initiatives, practice streamlining and training, through to exit planning and practice sales.

Myers La Roche director, Dominic Watson, said: “Paul is highly experienced and is already proving to be a real asset. His inclusion in our team now makes us 10strong and as a result, we are now in negotiations to move to larger premises to accommodate our continuing expansion.”

The Association of British Dispensing Opticians’ (ABDO) first minor eye conditions services (MECS) extended services training days held in Birmingham recently were attended by 36 contact lens opticians (CLOs). The Association currently has more than 130 CLOs working towards MECS and Glaucoma Repeat Measures (GRM) accreditation. Every CLO training for the scheme is in the process of completing 11 Wales Optometry Postgraduate Centre online lectures and the corresponding MCQ assessments, funded by the Local Optical Committee Support Unit. Those who took part in the extended services training days had completed all the lectures and will make up the first cohort of practitioners able to offer minor eye condition and glaucoma care in areas with commissioned schemes.

ABDO president, Clive Marchant, said: “There is great pressure on our hospital A&E departments. The provision of MECS within primary care High Street optical practices will help reduce this pressure and provide patients with minor eye conditions an accessible local and convenient service. This is an exciting advancement for the profession which we must all embrace, but it is not without challenges.”

Paul Walters

23 General Optical Council The General Optical Council’s (GOC) newly published policy on Consensual Panel Disposal will be used to identify and progress fitness to practise (FTP) cases that may be suitable for concluding without a contested hearing if the registrant has admitted the allegation in full. For consensual panel disposal cases, the GOC

14

Vision Now JULY 2018

will seek to agree an appropriate level of sanction with the registrant and make a sanction recommendation to the FTP Committee.

Lisa Davis, GOC FTP director, said: “We are pleased to introduce this new policy as we believe people on all sides will benefit. The

consensual panel disposal policy will encourage registrants to participate in the fitness to practise process, and will give us the flexibility to adapt the process to each individual case. Most importantly, consensual panel disposal will help us to deal with cases expeditiously in order to protect the public.”

Miru 1 month a unique technology designed to meet the demands of today’s contact lens wearer

Vision – Toric

Miru 1 month contact lenses are manufactured using unique material and surface technologies. Menicon’s innovative hydrophilic silicone monomer material, MeniSilk™ delivers one of the highest levels of oxygen transmission of any commercially available disposable lens. Nanogloss™ nanometer precision technology provides the miru 1 month family with a super smooth surface reducing bacterial bio昀lm adhesion and lipid deposits supporting clean, healthy lens wear.

Health and comfort Eyes that can breathe are healthier, whiter and allow worry-free wear from morning until night. The thickness of a lens can signi昀cantly impact oxygen transmissibility.

Miru 1month sphere, toric and multifocal designs optimise oxygen transmissibility across the whole lens surface over the entire power range. The unique edge pro昀le applied across the whole power range imparts the ultimate in uniform comfort. Whatever the power, the lens periphery and the edge thickness remain the same, eliminating comfort differences between eyes due to variation in edge thickness between lenses.

The unique Visiostable design™ asymmetric vertical thin zones matches the eyelid’s natural asymmetric coverage of the cornea harnessing the natural lid force, optimising centration and preventing rotation.

Vision – Multifocal Innovation for presbyopia Dual Balanced Design® consisting of a low add design for earlier presbyopes with lower near vision needs. A progressive multifocal geometry with centre near vision, with a natural transition to intermediate and far. The high add is a patented decentered near zone design for presbyopes with higher near vision needs. Dynamic stabilisation zones are used to ensure the near zones remain stable.

Distance viewing Relaxed accommodation Relaxed convergence

Near viewing Convergence Pupil constriction

‘Technology in balance’ For more details please contact Menicon customer services on 01604 646216 www.menicon.co.uk

For 67 years Menicon, a Japanese company, have been pioneers in contact lens innovation, delivering ground-breaking contact lenses across the globe.

Today Menicon, a Japanese company, brings exciting new innovation applying their expertise and insight from a long heritage of world class specialist contact lenses into soft disposable contact lenses.

In 1950, 19-year old Kyoichi Tanaka was employed at Tamamizuya optical shop and 昀rst heard of contact lenses from the wife of a U.S. Army of昀cer. From this encounter, through his own research, Kyoichi Tanaka Founded Menicon in 1951 and developed the 昀rst corneal and RGP contact lenses in Japan.

A commemorative plaque has been erected at Tamamizuya (Nishiki, Naka-ku, Nagoya) to mark the birth of this medical device that has earned a place in the history of the twentieth century.

Menicon were granted the world’s 昀rst silicone hydrogel contact lens material patent in 1979, another historic milestone in Menicon’s history.

Dedicated to contact lenses With their head of昀ce in Nagoya, Japan, Menicon create all of their contact lenses from beginning to end, developing their own unique materials to which they apply the science of vision and design. Menicon are focusing on developing more soft contact lenses of all modalities to add to their strong portfolio and are investing heavily in research and development along with new manufacturing facilities.

To guide them in their new stage of development as a global corporation, they have formulated a new philosophy: “To be a global enterprise that is friendly to people, animals and the environment.” They have incorporated ecology as a key element in their Research and Development.

Menicon have a long and unique heritage of world class contact lenses, including Rose K, the world’s most frequently prescribed lens for the irregular cornea and Menicon Z night, the world’s only Hyper Dk GP lens material approved by the FDA for up to 30 days continuous wear.

Menicon also introduced the worlds 昀rst and only 昀at pack daily disposable lens, Miru 1day, speci昀cally developed to reduce the chance of lens inner surface contamination. When the pack is opened, the outer surface of the lens always faces up, eliminating confusion about lens orientation and reduces the need to touch the inner surface of the lens.

The Miru 1 month family of silicone hydrogel contact lenses include a unique toric stabilisation design for greater stability plus a unique patented de-centered near zone multifocal design.

Menicon and the Environment In countries throughout the world, interest in the environment has been rising at a rapid rate.

We have reached an era in which we must all step forward to maintain awareness and to take action as conscientious members of society. As such everyone – corporations, individuals, public and private sector alike – must give serious thought to the global environment. Menicon have put ecology at the core of their research and development programs ensuring the company are recognised as being people, animal, and environmentally friendly.

An example of Menicon’s focus on recycling within manufacturing are the 30 pack boxes which are made from recycled lens mould.

To ful昀l their responsibility as a company involved with sight, Menicon will continue contributing to society by providing superior visual correction, which has been their corporate principle since their founding.

Providing everyone with a multitude of highly functional, high-quality products and services.

With the support of the optical professional, for more than half a century they have led the industry, taking pride in their steadfast principles and shining history.

Their dream, to share the technology and wisdom they possess and a devotion to ensure all activities continue to include a focus on ecology.

The Secret Behind The Menicon Logo You may have noticed that the name, “Menicon,” includes the letters that spell “ECO.” Menicon feel this is a sign that points to their mission.

With burning passion, Menicon has developed materials for safe contact lenses that can provide excellent permeability for the oxygen that is required by the cornea. In our woodlands, trees take in carbon dioxide from the air, and use sunlight and chlorophyll to produce oxygen through photosynthesis. Both share the key word oxygen, with red symbolising the light from the sun just as green recalls our oxygen-giving forests.

‘Technology in balance’

Article by John McManus | EMEA Strategic Partner Account Manager | Frequent Replacement Division Menicon Ltd

World’s only 昀at pack daily disposable contact lens Daily disposable contact lenses packaged in a revolutionary wafer-thin and exceptionally hygienic 昀at pack Health & hygiene 1day Miru 昀at pack was speci昀cally developed to reduce the chance of lens inner surface contamination. When the pack is opened, the outer surface of the lens faces up. This eliminates confusion about lens orientation and reduces the need to touch the inner surface of the lens, making it less likley that harmful bacteria will get trapped between the lens and the wearers eye. The Miru 1day 昀at pack sandwiches the contact lenses lightly, but securely between two specially designed foil sheets, in contrast to typical plastic containers in which the lenses 昀oat loosely.

EASY TO OPEN

Comfort 1day Miru lenses are created using Menicon’s proprietary Centraform™ spin casting and polymerisation process, this results in a smooth edge pro昀le which helps reduce friction when the wearer blinks. The Centraform™ process makes it possible to manufacture aspherical lenses of extremely high quality.

Convenience As the world’s 昀attest and most compact lens pack, Miru 1day offers unprecedented convenience for storage and carrying in a pocket, purse or even wallet.

EASY TO REMOVE

‘Technology in balance’

EASY TO WEAR

For more details please contact Menicon customer services on 01604 646216 www.menicon.co.uk

PRACTICE MATTERS

Developing thoughts This month, Phil Mullins recommends looking at how you are investing in your staff

Is your biggest investment your biggest asset?

Unlike a lot of normal retail business, where the biggest cost is property, the independent optical profession’s big cost is people. Even in a fairly small practice you can have an optometrist, dispensing optician (DO) and two receptionists. This, in turn, could cost more than £100,000 per year. Even if you take into account the fact that the optom, the DO or both could own the business, there is still a salary cost on the business. The question therefore is: why, when we spend so much money on staff, do we invest so little time and cost on making them the best they can be?

In times gone by, the receptionist was just that; they would answer the phone, book appointments and possibly send the recalls.

The DO would only deal with spectacles and the optom would sit in their consulting room waiting for the world to come to them. But back then, patients wouldn’t complain about waiting 15 minutes for the DO to be free to fit a screw in their frame.

Oh, how things have changed.

DON’T LEAVE IT TO CHANCE Obviously, in most practices, the demarcations aren’t as strict as that (although I know a number of practices where the receptionist is the only person who answers the phone). As time has passed, practices have kept staff levels low to try to keep costs under control, particularly in these difficult trading times. It’s okay to ask staff to do more than they might have traditionally, but have we trained them and given them the tools to do the tasks that we ask of them?

The front desk is the most important contact point in the whole practice, as it’s the first point the majority of patients will interact with your business. So why not take just a few minutes out of your day and

see your practice welcome from the point of view of your patients. Is the welcome quick and friendly? Are the staff approachable? Are they able to answer the patients’ queries? Can they respond to the patients’ needs? If the answer to any of these is no, then you have a training need.

There are plenty of courses for staff run by the Association of British Dispensing Opticians and the Worshipful Company of Spectacle Makers, for example, or you can bring in someone like Liam Franklin from Orta (you can read his business views on pages 24-25). But whatever you do, don’t just leave it. Over the years, I have been in many practices and have seen patients just turn around and walk out because the receptionist couldn’t answer the simplest of questions, or they were just so rude that I’m surprised any patients stayed at all.

DO’ING THE MATHS Leaving the front desk behind, who carries out the dispensing tasks in your practice?

Do you have a qualified DO or is it an optical assistant with the support of the optom? Once again, look at it from the patient’s viewpoint. If they have to wait for the optom to finish with a patient, so they can be measured, or if the person has limited knowledge of the lens options, would you find this acceptable? As a DO myself, I have a vested interest, but I strongly believe every practice should have a well-trained DO and here’s why…

If a DO costs £28,000 per year, which is £538 per week, and you dispense 30 pairs of spectacles per week, you would need to see an increase in dispensing value of £17.93 to cover the costs. But when I worked in a group of practices, the average dispensing value from qualified DOs compared to assistants and optoms was

Is your practice welcome quick and friendly?

£45 higher. If this was the case, then the increased income per week would be £1,350 or £64,800 for a 48-week working year. This more than covers the additional costs, let alone all the benefits of dispensing children and complex prescriptions.

Finally, we make it to the consulting room where we meet the most highly trained member of staff: the optometrist. Although as with DOs the optom spends hours on CET, this doesn’t cover much of what goes into making a great practice. Has the optom sat with the reception staff and gone through the same customer care training?

Have they spent time with the DO learning about the latest lenses to recommend? Are they skilled enough to say to a patient, “I’m going to move you from daily contact lenses to a hybrid lens, as it will improve your vision”?

Many of you will read this and know that you already do these things, but I would still suggest you go through your practice from front to back to see where you might invest in your staff. If, on the other hand, you think you do need to invest in your staff, then there is no time like the present.

Just make a start, as the first step is always the hardest, and remember to ask for help when you need it. I really am a great believer in asking the expert.

Vision Now JULY 2018

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Balancing eyecare and eyewear High Street optics has long battled with balancing the clinical versus retail elements of running a successful and profitable practice, writes Nick Atkins The current minor eye conditions services (MECS) vs. Specs discussions have reenergised these long-standing deliberations. The use of the term ‘enhanced optical services’ by the UK’s largest chain as well as its move into offering more clinical services, including optical coherence tomography, suggests that the more clinical aspects of High Street optometry can no longer be seen as the preserve of the independent sector (assuming you believe it ever really was).

As Independents Day (iDay) always tries to be relevant and topical, it is no surprise that such discussions will be the focus of this year’s joint conference with NEG – only we prefer to call this tightrope that independents walk: ‘eyecare versus eyewear’. There’ll be no change when it comes to delivering great, topical and fully relevant content, however, there is a new format.

The combined event will take the form of a roadshow covering the North West, Midlands and South of England on: • Monday 22 October at the Holiday Inn, Wembley • Monday 29 October at the Ricoh Arena, Coventry • Tuesday 30 October at the Holiday Inn, Bolton.

The programme will run during the afternoon and evening rather than in the traditional daytime slot, from 1pm to 8.30pm to make attendance easier with the potential to take less time out of the practice.

Keynote speaker, Andy Clark

Focus on marriage of clinical and retail

WALKING THE TIGHTROPE When it comes to the hybrid business that is UK optical practice, taking in both the professional and commercial aspects of optometry, speakers really do need to have a good understanding on this unique business model. So, there was only ever going to be one man for the job.

Consequently, we are delighted to reveal that our keynote speaker this year is optical marketing guru, Andy Clark.

In his presentation, ‘Who do you think you are?’, Andy will look at what he calls the fundamental ‘practice archetypes’ and demonstrate that practitioners need to understand which best defines both themselves and their practice. As well as identifying where the business is now, the next exercise will be to decide where the business is going in the next five to 10 years and whether that is different. This will have a significant impact on building a meaningful, commercially viable ‘brand’ for your area.

Fellow professionals who have walked the talk in their businesses will support Andy, sharing their unique perspectives on independent practice and how they’ve managed to balance the eyecare vs. eyewear conundrum. Following the success of last year’s interactive business sessions, we will once again run a parallel track of commercially focused workshops. Andy will

run one of these as a practical session to help delegates work through his practice archetypes model on their business. Finally, of course, for those who still need a few CET points, there will be CET courtesy of our sponsors.

SOLD-OUT ISHOW Suppliers have responded extremely positively to the new format we’re introducing for 2018, with all slots sold out within weeks of its launch. A 20-company strong exhibition with the main sponsors being: Alcon and CooperVision as Title Sponsors; Heidelberg Engineering and UltraVision as Headline Sponsors; and Optos, Optinet, Positive Impact and Glasklar as Foundation Sponsors. The new format has really struck a chord with suppliers focused on the independent sector, which of course means that ticket prices for delegates can be maintained at a minimum.

Tickets are very reasonably priced for NEG members. Booking is now open for early-bird tickets that are available until 31 August. The early bird price is £39.00 (plus VAT) and full ticket price is £59 (plus VAT). As we are in smaller venues this year, early booking is highly recommended as we are expecting a sell-out at each roadshow. Keep up-to-date with iDay and the NEG Building for Success Conference, of which more details will follow soon, at www.independentsday.co.uk Vision Now JULY 2018

21

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AN INDEPENDENT VIEW

Defining moment for sector

The arrival of the new Eye Promise quality mark for independent practices is a defining moment for the sector, writes AIO chairman Christian French Christian French

Launched last month, the Eye Promise is designed to build public awareness about the importance of long-term eye health care and, more importantly, where to find it. The initiative is exclusively for those independents that provide excellent longterm eye health care for their patients.

The Association for Independent Optometrists and Dispensing Opticians (AIO), the ‘not-for-profit’ body that only represents independent practice, has been working for a number of years on creating a mark of excellence that will help sustain and energise the sector for the long term.

continue, and this is why the Eye Promise has been developed.

the country. In each location, the AIO has supported the Eye Promise practice with a range of promotional materials that include:

The AIO has invested significantly in the Eye Promise by working with a specialist outside agency with extensive knowledge of the world of optics. The result is clear and simple branding that is both eye-catching and impactful. We were advised to keep the ‘promises’ as concise and as clear as possible, and that is what we have done. The Eye Promise structure also allows practices that sign up to emphasise any particular ‘promise’ appropriate to their local circumstance.

• In-practice posters and window decals (and pop-up banners for those who want them) • A range of letters for building awareness with patients, local health care professionals, schools and colleges, services organisations and other stakeholders • Draft press releases and briefings for use with local radio station promotions • Draft PowerPoint presentations for use with schools, colleges, service organisations, etc

WIDESPREAD ENTHUSIASM The Eye Promise comes with five simple commitments, or ‘promises’, from those practices that sign up: • We put long-term eye health care first • We give patients as much time in the consultancy chair as their individual needs require • We will always try and offer repeat appointments with the same practitioner • We will use state-of-the-art imaging equipment as a way of monitoring long-term eye health • We will only recommend eyewear that will benefit you The five ‘promises’ are designed to clearly differentiate great independents from those opticians that operate from ‘stores’ with a primarily retail business model. It is not a case of saying that one way of practising is better than another, simply that they are different. The issue is that members of the public do not know or understand that there is a difference, and so are making decisions about eyecare on an uninformed basis. It is the AIO’s contention that longterm eye health care and protecting eyesight is far too important for this to

The AIO announced the launch of the Eye Promise at Optrafair in April and it was extremely well received by all the independents we spoke to on the AIO stand. Indeed, there has been widespread enthusiasm for the Eye Promise from the extensive supply chain to the independent sector. In particular, the AIO recognises and greatly appreciates the support and contribution of Eyeplan, which ‘owned’ the Eye Promise brand and bequeathed it to the AIO at no cost, and that of the National Eyecare Group in providing the platform for this article in Vision Now.

An example of available posters

The first 20 practices went live with the Eye Promise quality mark at the end of June in locations that span the length and breadth of

As the number of Eye Promise practices grows, the intention is to move to regional and ultimately national promotion of the brand. The AIO recognises that this will not be a ‘revolution’ but will evolve over time, and that is a message that we have emphasised with those practices that sign up. The Association is in it for the long haul, however, and is hugely encouraged by the steady flow of sign-up forms that are now being received as we spread the message around the independent community.

Ultimately, this is all about driving patients through the front door of practices that sign up to the ‘promises’, and making those practices the destination of choice for people who understand the importance of great long-term eye health care.

Sole practitioner independents can sign up to the Eye Promise for as little as £100 per year by becoming AIO practice members, and the maximum cost is £300 for practices that employ multiple optometrists and dispensing opticians.

To sign up or find out more, email lin@aiovision.org or call 0800 1300 486 and ask for Lin or Mike.

Vision Now JULY 2018

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BUSINESS VIEW

Is optical innovation killing your business?

Outstanding optometry can only be sustained with a strong retail presence, believes Liam Franklin Manufacturers are constantly wanting to share new developments in their optical technology. They assure us that these innovations will add value both in terms of patient satisfaction and practice profitability.

Whilst they are correct, for the vast majority of optical retailers, these innovations are creating a potential death sentence.

Speak to any supplier renowned for innovation and they will tell you that the profession is largely slow to adapt to advances in technology and habitually dispenses dated technology. Many practices are yet to adopt technology that has been available for many years. Can you imagine a consumer electronics store surviving if they continually sold two-year-old technology, let alone 15year-old designs? So how can our profession have survived so long by doing just that?

Well, the answer is clear. Much optical technology is encompassed in a product that has no aesthetic properties. For most consumer products, this is what helps to drive demand. Two eyewear consumers can compare frame designs, but it’s impossible to compare lenses or contact lens technology. If one wearer is delighted with their new premium, digital lenses, they can hardly demonstrate the benefits by allowing a friend to try them on. Ultimately, this results in practitioners falling back on the habitual dispensing of tried and tested products that they understand.

For many years, the industry has been able to carry on in this way due to consumers being

Is your practice still dispensing the optical equivalent of these?

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Vision Now JULY 2018

Consumers demand the latest technology

largely unaware of their product options, trusting the professionalism of their practitioner. But not for much longer – because change is coming. Take a look at any major retailer and you will see that they are continually evolving to meet changes in consumer habits. Especially where technology is involved, consumers demand the very latest. Through the availability of information, they will empower themselves with product knowledge before making a considered purchase. This is in addition to quality of service, experience, style and value for money.

To make matters worse for the apathetic practitioner, suppliers think they are helping by generating demand for their products through business-to-consumer marketing.

Advertising, consumer-friendly websites and social media are all creating increased awareness. As Oakley discovered a few years ago, their consumers had carried out so much research on the product that suited their lifestyle needs that they were more knowledgeable than many stockists.

Established businesses do not want to see new players enter the market, but currently the door is well and truly open. It’s very difficult for new companies to enter an established market. But as we have seen with other industries, if the existing model

doesn’t meet consumer demands then opportunities arise for new businesses to grab market share. You don’t have to dig very deep to see that this is already happening in optics. And it’s only going to increase.

SO, WHY ARE WE HERE? Let’s go back 30 years to the time of deregulation. At this time, eyewear was only dispensed by the professionally trained. In addition, the choice of product was just a fraction of what it is now. Glass, plastic, single vision or bifocals and a few progressive lens choices. Frame material and contact lens options were relatively limited and prescription sun and sportswear accounted for a very small percentage of industry revenues.

Jump forward to 2018 and things are very different. We all know some very talented dispensing opticians (DOs) but currently the number of General Optical Councilregistered DOs is about one third of the number of optometrists. However, the biggest issue is the massive increase in the need for product knowledge.

Manufacturers are often critical of the ability of practice staff to promote and dispense their products. But let’s be realistic about this situation. What can we

BUSINESS VIEW because a competitor provides a better quality of service.

SO, WHAT’S THE SOLUTION?

The need for product knowledge is huge

reasonably expect from practice staff when they are dealing with three lens suppliers, 15 frame suppliers, two contact lens suppliers and numerous suppliers of ancillary products. This is, of course, on top of practice systems, anatomy of the eye, conditions and diseases and refractive errors. The bottom line is that very few can become experts in all aspects of the practice environment.

Lack of knowledge leads to lack of confidence which, in turn, results in products and services that would benefit the consumer being overlooked. How do you think your ‘valued’ patients would feel if they discovered that their ‘trusted and professional’ practitioner hadn’t offered them the most up-to-date options? How would you feel if they decided to take their business to somewhere that did? The new players in our profession are getting patients from somewhere and it’s certainly not those that are satisfied with their current practitioner.

Just a quick point about practice revenues.

Whilst this subject will have an impact on practice sales and many of the apathetic practitioners will profess to their stance being about a lack of greed, it’s actually about a great deal more. Yes, promoting premium eyewear technology will increase conversion rates, average dispensing values and profitability, but those things will only happen as a consequence of delivering an outstanding service to your patients. You can’t deliver one without the other. I don’t believe that even the most affluent of practitioner, would like to see their patients drop off from their database

Typical knowledge base required in practice

We have established that the requirement for knowledge is a tall order, but you shouldn’t let that put you off working to improve. Suppliers are desperate to deliver product training but getting in the door is a tall order as many practices do not see the longer-term benefit to closing for a few hours.

It really is a great idea to utilise this support.

However, developing your teams to translate this technical knowledge to effective dispensing is not that straightforward. Firstly, manufacturers have room for improvement in how their products and services are communicated. They can often be confusing to even the most experienced member of staff. Product training is key but even if delivered well, needs to come after a good grounding of more fundamental skills. New and existing staff may still lack a good basic knowledge of optics, and developing motivation and engagement skills is essential to convert product knowledge into effective dispensing.

Inspiring your teams to understand objectives, to become more motivated and to establish and meet the needs of your patients will have a massive impact on your business. Yes, increased revenues, but for many it is more important to retain and build the patient database, develop and motivate staff, retain employees and build practice value.

Here’s the great news. The investment needed to significantly improve the performance of your teams and business is comparatively low. You will only need a shift of a few percentage points on conversion rate, and/or a few pounds in average order values to see a return on investment. Just one or two additional pairs of prescription sunglasses, prescription sports eyewear or contact lenses per month will easily cover investment in training each employee. Great training perpetuates continual growth. Well trained staff develop customer satisfaction, which develops sales and profitability, which (should) develop staff welfare, which increases staff satisfaction and loyalty, which attracts higher calibre staff, etc, etc.

At a time where premium optical candidates have their pick of the best jobs, does your business attract talent? Or are you expediting your demise? The UK model for retail optics

Inspiring staff to understand objectives will have a massive impact on your business

is essentially flawed and outstanding optometry can only be sustained with a strong retail presence. Selling product may not be why you entered the profession but with the value of optometry being massively under-valued for more than a generation, optical retailing is a lifeline.

There is a lot of great support out there to develop your marketing, social media, image, product portfolio, etc. But unless your teams are well trained to convert increased demand, you could be doing more harm than good. I recently worked with a regional chain that had so much right with regards to board level objectives and strategy but, due to a lack of a robust training programme, were seeing revenues drop as their staff weren’t confident with their product ranges and engagement skills.

Globally, huge investment is being made to reduce the cost of providing a refraction service, allowing large optical retailers to increase their margins on lower priced products. Whether we like it or not, this will happen and will have a massively damaging effect of the profession. The one thing that allows a business to charge a premium is when a premium service is provided. If you are confident that you and your colleagues consistently deliver an outstanding service then great, but eyewear consumers are already finding that they can get what they consider is better, for less.

If you value your patients, your employees, your profitability, your business and your livelihood then take a good look at all aspects of your business and ask yourself: “Am I ready to survive and thrive, or am I leaving the door wide open for the competition?”

Liam Franklin is managing consultant at Orta Optical Training and Recruitment Academy.

Vision Now JULY 2018

25

LOW VISION

Giving patients their sight back

A guest of the Independents’ Lounge at Optrafair, GiveVision explains more about SightPlus – its revolutionary solution for patients with low vision

Some 120 years after the first hearing aid was invented to address loss of hearing, there are still 191 million people globally who have to live with sight loss and need more help than the humble spectacle can offer. So, in 2014, the GiveVision team came together with the determination to bring sight back to people living with low vision.

The team, formed from a group of scientists, engineers and social entrepreneurs, spent several years working towards a wearable sight enhancement device. Now in its fourth year, the company has just commenced a study with Moorfields Eye Hospital to evaluate its SightPlus device. Concurrently, the team is in the middle of developing its second-generation solution, with the aim of getting closer to the form factor of glasses.

TECHNOLOGICAL LEAPS The need for a wearable sight aid suitable for a large range of activities was clear to the team from the start. Traditional low vision aids such as magnifiers and screen readers are often limited in their functionality and use; for example, for reading, an optical magnifier zooms into a very small area only. In addition, the user has to hold it very close to the eye and bend over towards the text. In contrast, computational image enhancements on digital screens can vastly improve the ability to see; people are able to read, to engage in everyday activities and can recognise faces.

When integrated into a head-mounted, wearable solution, this technological leap means that low vision patients can use such an aid for most everyday activities. Wearable solutions equally support near and far vision, and the wide field of view and colour rendering means that pretty much any image content becomes accessible. With smartphone technology evolving rapidly, the time was right to move image enhancements from the lab to the real world. The outcome was GiveVision’s first generation device, SightPlus, which is now available to purchase.

Income from first generation sales is directly fed back into the development of GiveVision’s second-generation sight

26

Vision Now JULY 2018

Figure 1: GiveVision's first generation device SightPlus (left) and an early test unit for the second-generation solution (right).

enhancement device, which will have a form factor of glasses (Figure 1).

One of GiveVision’s most treasured achievements is its close working relationship with the ultimate user of their device – people diagnosed with low vision. To date, more than 300 volunteers have given in-depth feedback on the many development stages of its multiple prototypes. Regular volunteer contributors, Michael Mason, says: “SightPlus is the best thing that’s happened to me since I was diagnosed. The amount of things that I use it for now is immense.”

“I’ve enjoyed being part of the SightPlus development, especially testing new versions before anybody else,” continues Michael. “It is a big part of my life now.

Working alongside the GiveVision team is a pleasure. I like the fact that I am involved in building a solution that will help me and also many others struggling with sight loss.”

The company has won numerous industry awards and has been featured on BBC Click, BBC Breakfast, Sky News and in The Sunday Times amongst others.

Early volunteer testing sessions between 2016 and 2017 quickly demonstrated that wearable sight aids would enable many people living with sight loss to re-engage in daily activities. Volunteers reported watching TV, reading, doing a hobby (such as playing a musical instrument, sightseeing or attending the theatre) and working or studying. Overall, 83 per cent of people who tried SightPlus in a home environment reported that it improved their ability to see for any of their most frequent use cases compared to their best coping strategy or sight aid. So the GiveVision team knew they were on the right path.

In late 2017, GiveVision followed up with 34 volunteers who requested to keep SightPlus for long-term use. The results from this survey brought further encouragement (Figure 2): 65 per cent of testers reported

SOLUTION AND EVIDENCE First generation device SightPlus is built around a virtual reality headset and the capabilities of a specially selected smartphone. The device is CE marked and registered with the Medicines & Healthcare products Regulatory Agency. In a collaboration with Moorfields Eye Hospital, SightPlus will now undergo clinical scrutiny by one of the world’s most reputable specialist eye hospitals.

Figure 2: SightPlus user data (* after long-term follow-up)

LOW VISION

Figure 3: Data on acuity and contrast sensitivity

being enabled to do activities they could not do before, 68 per cent reported increased confidence, and 59 per cent reported increased independence. Two-thirds of people reported using the device weekly, 41 per cent daily. The follow-up also showed a significant improvement by, on average, 10 points in ‘near vision activities’ and ‘distance vision activities’ on the National Eye Institute Visual Function Questionnaire.

Recently, GiveVision completed pilot work to establish the impact of SightPlus on the clinical metrics of sight loss. Results showed why SightPlus works so well for people with low vision: visual acuity showed a mean improvement of 0.83 logMAR (eight lines on the sight chart), increasing significantly from 1.24 logMAR to 0.44 logMAR). Contrast sensitivity improved by 0.58 log units (11 letters on the sight chart), increasing significantly from 0.87 log units (13.5%) to 1.38 log units (four per cent) (Figure 3).

LIFE-CHANGING IMPACT After the BBC showed Paralympian Libby Clegg and her partner testing SightPlus, the parents of a young boy got in touch with GiveVision. Charlie is now one of the youngest SightPlus users (Figure 4); however, children can only use SightPlus following recommendation by a specialist in order to make sure they are supervised professionally.

Charlie has Stargardt’s, which is an inherited form of macular degeneration. After testing

Figure 5: Ivy at home using SightPlus

SightPlus, his mother said: “Let’s just say it has been life-changing for Charlie. I have had the pleasure of seeing Charlie in school every day and seen how he has not only used SightPlus but has grown in confidence about Stargardt’s and openly spoken to children in every class about his new gadget and what it enables him to do.”

One of the reasons why people like the device is its flexibility and multi-purpose character. Forty-seven-year-old Lee says: “The headset was hands-free, so I could actually read things I was holding. I went back home, and I could watch my TV from across the room, instead of having to sit inches away from the screen. I could even use a normal PC.” Similarly, 71-year-old John says: “You have to learn to see and register what SightPlus enables you to see. I think I would sum up my experience using SightPlus like this: previously I could discern form, now I can discern or am beginning to discern substance. I have just been on holiday in France. I used SightPlus in churches, art galleries, museums and to look at features of architecture and landscape.”

GiveVision is very aware of the huge impact that sight loss can have on people of an older age. Hence, one of the development guiding principles was to make the device easy to operate for people aged from six to 100. Its current control solution has achieved just that,

as Sue, the daughter of 86-year old tester Ivy (Figure 5), explains: “Mum is loving using the viewer and is managing to navigate around the buttons. She is like a child having all her Christmases at once and hasn't stopped talking to me about everything she sees.”

APPROACHING A GLASSES FORM FACTOR While the success with SightPlus was more than encouraging, GiveVision recognised that ultimately many people would prefer a smaller device, something more similar to spectacles. It is, however, only now becoming possible to integrate see-through wearable displays into spectacle-like frames.

Honing in on this opportunity and funded through Innovate UK, GiveVision commenced the development of its second-generation device. The release date for first units is currently expected for autumn 2019. By late summer/early autumn 2018, the company is planning to run volunteer sessions to receive input on early design stages.

The early stages of developing a spectacleslike sight aid will be supported by insights from evaluating SightPlus with Moorfields Eye Hospital NHS Foundation Trust London.

In this study, running from July 2018 to March 2019, the device will be scrutinised by patients seen by Dr Michael Crossland and Professor Andrew Webster. Michael Crossland says: “The initial results from this device are extremely encouraging. We look forward to evaluating the SightPlus device with a large group of people with visual impairment, to determine exactly how much this system can help people with sight loss.”

HOW TO GET INVOLVED

Figure 4: Charlie and his mother on BBC Breakfast

GiveVision is inviting both the visually impaired community and eyecare professionals to join them on their journey to building the world’s best sight aid. If you want to be involved, please email yoursay@givevision.net or sign up at www.givevision.net/signup. If you are interested in trying or recommending SightPlus, which is now available commercially and priced similar to a CCTV magnifier, please email sales@givevision.net.

Vision Now JULY 2018

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STYLE SPOTLIGHT

Wondrous eyewear for youngsters

By Joan Grady Young children and teens requiring optical frames have a wonderful opportunity with the amazing eyewear available to improve their sight, and fashionista expectations.

Parents and children are sure to be delighted with the vast selection of styles, colours, materials and safety features that enhance optical designs. British companies and international creators recognise the children’s sector as a vital part of their business, and provide wonderful possibilities for stunning selections. Aware that children like to mimic what parents are wearing, round, aviator, square and retro shapes in timeless colours as well as bold tones highlight these inviting collections.

So smart: Lazer Junior 2154 by Continental Eyewear

hues of red, violet, blue and green as well as coloured tortoiseshell, trendy stripes and soft pastels. Sahara features seven different acetates in a playful butterfly design.

The particularly intriguing aspect of the JF Rey Kids & Teens collection is that children are asked to suggest and contribute their ideas during creative workshops organised

by JF Rey designers. Participants are able to select colours and motifs, choose shapes and try on the prototypes. It is an enterprising project to envelope children in the eyewear process – and who knows?

Perhaps stimulate and encourage a future design career in optics.

Back-to-school shopping for eyewear promises to be a fun adventure with an array of frames that cater to children’s individual interests and tastes. Budding young stylists will respond to feminine, colourful looks, while vintage enthusiasts can find classic tortoiseshell updated with pops of colour.

Really cool designs with grown-up styling, plus sporty designs, bring an air of exclusivity to frames for junior wearers.

Babies have excellent choices too – with designs that are specially formulated to fit small faces. Designers and companies are also committed to creating frames that are durable, in materials that are thoughtful to young, sensitive skins.

Très chic! Mini-be by Sabine Be

Children’s eyewear by French designer Sabine Be is fun, colourful, experimental and adventurous. Her designs for kids include charming little cat-eye shapes, gipsy looks, retro-foundations, with dashing, audacious colours – yet always wearable. Solid colours in bold red, tortoiseshell with contrasting tones, and florescent hues vibrate in this chic little collection for youngsters.

COLOURFUL VIBES Innovative optical styles stand out in the latest JF Rey Kids & Teens Collection, for children from four to 16 years old. The vibrant collections have their root in Marseille, France – a city with unique architecture, energy and, of course, the vitality of the sun and sparkle of the sea.

The just-released campaign is titled ‘Enjoy the colours’ and includes acetates in strong

28

Vision Now JULY 2018

Colourful frames from Kids & Teens by JF Rey

Vivid, vibrant colours in the Whiz Kids collection by Dunelm Optical offer refreshing and engaging choices for children in the six to 12 age range – the time when children are growing and discovering their own unique style. New for 2018 is Aiyana, an acetate and metal duo with a soft cat eye. Colours Ruby Red/Punchy Pink, and Brilliant Blue/Cocoa Brown are inspiring choices for young girls.

Blue is a preferred colour in children’s

STYLE SPOTLIGHT

Style setters: Whiz Kids Chesmu for boys and Aiyana for girls from Dunelm Optical

frames, and the variations are striking and stylish. Also in the Whiz Kids range is a metal frame for boys – Chesmu in Sapphire Blue – in a smart oval shape that is thin and linear.

STUDIOUS STYLE

Captivating tortoiseshell by Very French Gangsters

Children’s eyewear fashion often emulates what adults are wearing, and then the designs are scaled and tailored to fit little faces. Lazer Junior, distributed by Continental Eyewear, has marvellous choices for youngsters with contemporary shapes that echo what adults often prefer. The collection offers a varied selection of square, oval and round silhouettes, in solid colours from neutrals to bright tones, along with fun tonal combinations, sure to win the attention (and approval) of both parents and children.

them. The House of Eyewear in Paris has created an appealing area where they and their parents can be at ease. There is a comfortable place for a child to sit, try on frames and see how they look in a large mirror. When parents have questions for the practitioner, children can be happily engaged with toys or a colouring book.

Sandrine Pereira, the House of Eyewear creator and an eyecare practitioner, reports that the children’s area has been hugely successful, with children delighted to try on designs from Tête à Tête Lunettes, Mini be and Very French Gangsters.

For decades Lafont Paris has been creating delightful, enticing and quality frames for babies crafted with precision to fit developing faces to teenagers. The Lafont Issy et La designs for teens from 15 to 18 years old are especially delightful with style nuances that reflect current trends, plus implementing retro and fashion highlights from previous eras. Cap in crystal acetate with sleek bronze sides celebrates the spirit of the 1960s, and ensures teenager spectacle wearers with spot-on style.

Be original in Tête à Têtes Lunettes

by Caroline Abram

Sporty, casual designs by Original Penguin Jr are ideal for youths who prefer conservative, casual clothes and eyewear. Tortoiseshell is an enduring, timeless material that is beloved by adults and children alike, and several designs in the collection include tortoiseshell in smooth acetate, as well as 1960s themed crystal styles.

Several years ago, Caroline Abram launched a fashion forward children’s collection – Tête à Tête Lunettes – now recognised as one of the premier eyewear collections for kids.

Her latest models include fun and captivating designs for the young set, as well as pre-teen children, with shapes and colours they really want to wear.

CHILDREN’S CORNER How children are introduced to frames plays a vital role in their acceptance of wearing

The children’s eyewear market continues to enthuse both independent designers and brands. Zoobug’s designs for babies through to early teens, and Mykita’s range for children aged eight years of age and older also highlight important factors that are imperative for children’s eyewear glasses: strong, lightweight frames in quality materials, scratch resistant along with integral and decisive style components.

Independent practitioners can capitalise on this important sector with these exciting opportunities, that will attract and please both parents and children while continuing to build strong customer relationships and your business too.

1960s spirit – Cap by Lafont Paris

Timeless tortoiseshell: the Mungarutal Jr by Original Penguin Jr House of Eyewear Children’s Corner – Paris Vision Now JULY 2018

29

V

VV

Preferred Suppliers’ Directory

Preferred Suppliers are suppliers who, by prior arrangement, offer members of the PK National Eyecare Group preferential terms.

For full details and terms offered to the membership, please call 01580 713698

ALCON UK Tel: 0371 376 0017 Fax: 0871 351 1005 www.uk.alcon.com

ARENA EYEWEAR

BRULIMAR OPTICAL GROUP Tel: 0161 655 7000 Fax: 0161 655 7002 www.brulimar.co.uk

DIBBLE OPTICAL SUPPLIES

HENRY BEAUMONT

Tel: 01634 880885 Fax: 01634 540530

Tel: 0116 251 8936 Fax: 0116 262 4205

barry@dibbleoptical.co.uk www.dibbleoptical.co.uk

info@henrybeaumont.com www.henrybeaumont.com

Tel: 01952 820408

CENTROSTYLE

DUNELM OPTICAL

HILCO EUROPE

www.arena-eyewear.co.uk

Tel: 01388 420420 Fax: 01388 810101

Tel: 0800 591150

ASSOCIATED OPTICAL

OPTICAL CENTRE SUPPLIES LTD Tel: 01923 239267 Fax: 01923 253951

Tel: 01628 605433 Fax: 01628 665077

sales@centrostyle.com www.centrostyle.com

sales@assopt.co.uk www.associatedoptical.com

CHARMANT UK CO LTD

BARCLAYCARD

Tel: 020 8992 9222 Fax: 020 8896 0287

Tel: 0800 056 5569

dunelm@dunelmoptical.co.uk www.dunelmoptical.co.uk

ESSILOR Tel: 01454 281281 Fax: 01454 281282 www.essilor.co.uk

HOYA LENS UK Tel: 0845 330 0984 Fax: 0845 330 0977 enquiries@hoya.co.uk orders@hoya.co.uk www.hoya.co.uk

sales@charmant.co.uk www.charmant.co.uk

EYESPACE

Tel: 020 8781 2900

CONTINENTAL EYEWEAR

Tel: 01527 870550 Fax: 01527 837012

INTERNATIONAL EYEWEAR LTD

www.bausch.co.uk

Tel: 0151 426 3907 Fax: 0151 426 9340

info@eyespace-eyewear.co.uk www.eyespace-eyewear.co.uk

Tel: 0121 585 6565 Fax: 0121 585 0954

sales@continental-eyewear.co.uk www.continental-eyewear.com

GO EYEWEAR UK LTD

BAUSCH + LOMB

BIB OPHTHALMIC INSTRUMENTS Tel: 01438 740823 sales@bibonline.co.uk www.bibonline.co.uk

COOPERVISION Tel: 0870 9000 055 www.coopervision.co.uk

BONDEYE OPTICAL Tel: 0121 7723888 Fax: 0808 2801865 sales@bondeyeoptical.co.uk www.bondeyeoptical.co.uk

Over 75% of patients agree that they can trust their optician to recommend the best contact lenses for them, regardless of cost.

Designed for quality minded patients, DAILIES TOTAL1 is so comfortable that 1 in 3 of eye care professionals who prescribe DAILIES TOTAL1 also choose to wear this lens.

For more information:

Tel: 03713 760 017 uk.brand@alcon.com

DAVID THOMAS Tel: 01604 646216 Fax: 01604 790366

Vision Now JULY 2018

www.internationaleyewear.co.uk

Tel: 0800 9178270

LENSTEC

www.goeyeweargroup.com

Tel: 029 2088 3009 Fax: 029 2088 9798

HEIDELBERG ENGINEERING

office@lenstec.co.uk www.lenstec.co.uk

Tel: 01442 502 330 Fax: 01442 242 386

LLOYDS BANK

www.HeidelbergEngineering.co.uk

Tel: 07780 338656 franchising@lloydsbanking.com www.lloydsbank.com/business

orders@davidthomas.com www.davidthomas.com

A refreshing perspective To help you enhance your contact lens practice, CooperVision offers an extensive product range designed to meet the needs of even more of your patients.

For more information 0870 9000 055* www.coopervision.co.uk

*Calls cost 2p per minute plus your phone company’s access charge.

30

info@hilco.co.uk www.hilco.co.uk

T 01527 870550 eyespace-eyewear.co.uk

01580 713698

Directory listings are available free of charge to all preferred suppliers, with a larger listing available to Vision Now Advertisers.

To make changes to the directory listings, please call Sharon Hicks on 01580 713698 or email s.hicks@nationaleyecare.co.uk

OPTICAL RECRUITMENT & TRAINING ACADEMY

RETAIL EXPERIENCE DESIGN (RED)

THE NORVILLE GROUP LTD Tel: 01452 510321 sales@norville.co.uk www.norville.co.uk

Tel: 01359 241312

Tel: 024 7601 0103

info@louisstone.co.uk www.louisstone.co.uk

info@ortauk.com www.ortauk.com

dean@retailexperiencedesign.co.uk www.retailexperiencedesign.co.uk

LUXOTTICA (UK) LTD

OPTINET LTD

RODENSTOCK

Tel: 0808 165 8555

Tel: 0845 313 0233

Tel: 01474 325555

www.luxottica.com

sales@optinetuk.com www.optinetuk.com

sales@rodenstock.co.uk www.rodenstock.co.uk

www.thea-pharmaceuticals.co.uk

Tel: 0800 72 2020

ORANGE EYEWEAR

SEIKO OPTICAL UK

csuk@marchon.com

Tel: 0161 773 5555 Fax: 0161 773 5544

Tel: 01452 610033 Fax: 01452 638250

Tel: 01686 627595 Fax: 01696 610015

info@orange-eyewear.co.uk www.orange-eyewear.co.uk

orders@seiko-optical.co.uk info@seiko-optical.co.uk www.seiko-optical.co.uk

MARCHON

MARK’ENNOVY Tel: 0800 3280610 Fax: 0800 3280649

PERFORMANCE FINANCE

mkservices@markennovy.com www.markennovy.com

Tel: 01332 295001 Fax: 01332 295158 orders@midoptic.com www.midoptic.com

www.performancefinance.co.uk

info@ultravision.co.uk www.ultravision.co.uk

POSITIVE IMPACT

info@shamirlens.co.uk www.shamirlens.co.uk

PRACTICE BUILDING

Info@nfr.co.uk www.nfr.co.uk

SILHOUETTE UK LTD Tel: 020 8987 8899 Fax: 020 8987 2430

WEBPOST Tel: 0800 074 2425 annie.mackervoy@webpost.com www.webpost.com

XACT

Tel: 0115 989 9772

office@uk.silhouette.com www.silhouette.com

Tel: 01698 574 655

andy@practicebuilding.co.uk www.practicebuilding.co.uk

SPEC-CARE LTD

IMcGleish@xact.uk.com www.xact.uk.com

Tel: 01392 460806

PRO-OPTIC

No7 CONTACT LENSES

Tel: 01884 266130

Tel: 01424 850620 Fax: 01424 850650

sales@pro-optic.com www.pro-optic.co.uk

info@no7contactlenses.com www.no7contactlenses.com

ULTRAVISION

SHAMIR UK

glasklar@positiveimpactsales.co.uk www.positiveimpactsales.co.uk

Tel: 01706 369530 Fax: 01706 628733

Kieran@calotherm.co.uk www.calotherm.co.uk

Tel: 01954 785100 Fax: 01954 785101

Tel: 08446 696907

NATIONWIDE FRAME REPAIRS

THREE SIXTY

Tel: 01525 381112 Fax: 01525 370091

Tel: 01536 529696 Fax: 01536 310033

MID-OPTIC

THEA PHARMACEUTICALS Tel: 0845 521 1290 Fax: 01782 717 944

info@speccareservices.co.uk www.speccareservices.co.uk

STEPPER UK

RAWDON OPTICAL LTD Tel: 0113 288 3094 Fax: 0113 288 3095

Tel: 01732 375975

YOUNGER OPTICS EUROPE UK Tel: 01242 578971 UK Mobile: 0790 133 7530 julian.wiles@youngereurope.com www.youngeroptics.com

sales@stepper.co.uk

TANT LABORATORIES

enquiries@rawdonoptical.co.uk www.rawdonoptical.co.uk

Tel: 01279 653785 www.tantlabs.com

www.nationaleyecare.co.uk “Only one comment,

WOW!“

Suppliers’ directory

LOUIS STONE OPTICAL LTD Tel: 029 2073 5293 Fax: 029 2073 1446

Open your eyes to

Alisdair Buchanan, Buchanan Optometrists

www.HeidelbergEngineering.co.uk

313004-002 UK.BE16 © Heidelberg Engineering GmbH

V

Telephone: 01442 502 330

VV The Norville Group Limited, Magdala Road, Gloucester GL1 4DG

Tel: 01452 510321 Email: sales@norville.co.uk www.norville.co.uk

Norville 38 x 71mm ad.indd 2 Norville

26/05/2016 12:56 26/05/2016

0845 3130233 sales@optinetuk.com

www.optinetuk.com

Vision Now JULY 2018

31

Advanced Practice Management Software

Fashion’s always evolving So is our software Intuitive dashboards, intelligent reports and individual staff permissions.

Optinet FLEX keeps your business at the cutting edge.

For further information and to book your no obligation, in practice demonstration, please call 0845 3130233 or email sales@optinetuk.com

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