Saturday, February 25
Myths and mishaps of Presbyopia†
At the Association of Optometrists lounge, a discussion workshop will be held by CooperVision’s head of professional affairs Christina Olner, which explores the most common mistakes that occur when fitting presbyopes with multifocal contact lenses. Three cases will be highlighted to identify preconceptions and oversights by eye care professionals (ECPs) with opportunities for delegate interactions and debate.
- AOP lounge 12:30 – 13:30
Compliance with guidance on myopia management†
Optometrists James Loughman and paediatric ophthalmologist Ian Flitcroft will present updated guidance on myopia management from the College of Optometrists on the main stage. With a focus on a more balanced interpretation of the available evidence, this lecture will explore the core requirements that optometrists must address in order to comply with these College-specific guidelines. It will also consider international recommendations from optical bodies, such as the World Council of Optometry.
- Main Stage 17:00 – 18:00
AI: the next chapter in retinal analysis†
On the main stage, Optos chief technology officer Derek Swan will lead a lecture on the future of artificial intelligence (AI) within advanced retinal imaging. As high-quality analysis of retinal data enables a deeper insight into earlier clinical stages, the session aims to delve into how AI can address the obstacles and increasingly provide rapid analytical interpretation of those images. The audience will be guided through considerations, such as the direction of AI in primary and secondary eye care settings; potential barriers; and preparations needed to embrace software and AI solutions in the same way we embraced OCT and ultra-widefield retinal imaging.
- Main stage 12:30 – 13:30
Sunday, February 26
Make your practice net zero in 2023
Independent optician business consultant Andrew Clark shares a concise system on how to be sustainable as a practice. This will comprise essentials of carbon accounting and footprint analysis, and an introduction to a sustainability pathway designed specifically for optics. For those feeling the eco-pressure, the OSA said it could provide insight on where to get started and a better understanding of the different ways to be more environmentally conscious.
- OSA 11:30 – 12:00
Panel discussion: Myopia focus
A panel discussion will be held on the Catwalk to explore the current provision of myopia management in UK practices and the issues facing practitioners and their patients. Speakers include FYEye managing director Jason Higginbotham, optometrist Sandip Doshi, optometrist Brian Tompkins, optometrist Bhavin Shah and specialty optometrist Michael O’Kane. The panel will cover a range of issues such as the question of myopia management funding in practices and GOC implications; barriers to full myopia management options like limited resources; marketing and patient communication, and the future of services.
- Catwalk 12:45 – 13:15
Early-career research showcase†
Aston University’s Dr Sam Strong (on behalf of VECCTR), will chair a session with three early-career researchers who will present a summary of their current work to update practitioners on emerging research in their respective fields. Speakers include post-doctural researcher Emily Charlesworth from the University of Bradford; lecturer Nikita Thomas from Anglia Ruskin University, and PhD student William Shepherd from the University of Leeds. They will cover a mix of optical areas, such as refractive management recommendations for cataract patients, validation of a novel perimeter with high-speed eye tracking, and the creation of online tests for contrast sensitivity and visual acuity.
- Dispensing workshop 16:00 – 17:00
Monday, February 27
Medical devices regulation – what does it mean for you?
This session defines the different medical certifications and explains why they matter. Should you be registered with the MHRA? What’s the difference between a UKCA mark or a CE mark? Independent policy consultant Ann Blackmore will introduce the current state of play on medical device regulation in the UK and Europe, explaining what has changed, expected future changes, and what this means for manufacturers, as well as for the owners and managers of optical practices.
- OSA 12:30 – 13:10
The cosmetics ‘crysis’†
Optometrist and dry eye specialist Sarah Farrant considers the impact of cosmetics on dry eye, reviewing the products that are frequently used around the eye and its adnexa and focusing on the ingredients that can be found lurking within them. The session will be based in the Optical Academy area and aims to provide ECPs with a stronger foundation of how to advise patients on healthy use of cosmetics in relation to dry eye management.
- Optical Academy 12:30 – 13:30
† - CPD-accredited sessions
Note: This year, there will be capacity for walk-ups at 100% Optical as 30% of session availability has been purposefully held back for those who have not been able to book.