More than 83% of Irish optometrists and dispensing opticians are willing to take on new clinical roles to meet eye health needs and long waiting lists, according to a survey of the optical workforce by FODO Ireland.
Garvan Mulligan, FODO Ireland chair, said: ‘Optical professionals need to be freed up so that they can provide the services they are trained to deliver, especially for children where long hospital waiting lists are leading to life-long impairments.’
The research also showed a need for expansion of training places to meet future needs, as 47% of the Irish optical workforce reported that they obtained their qualification in the UK.
Mulligan added: ‘We will be sharing our data with the Department of Health and the Department of Education and Skills. We need them to take action: training places need to be expanded and universities properly funded for the clinical training they provide.’