Professor Darren Shickle: A critical friend of the optical profession

An alternative model for UK optics suggested at this year’s ABDO Conference has arisen from the cost pressures facing optical practices and poor access to eye health services in certain areas of the country.

While frozen NHS sight fees and competition from free eye tests were devaluing the profession, expensive optical appliances and an abundance of offers were putting off patients. In addition to this, Professor Darren Shickle of Leeds University told delegates at Chesford Grange Hotel, Kenilworth, that the availability of cheap ready-readers and internet spectacle sales were both resulting in patients bypassing full eye exams.