The Association of Optometrists (AOP) has appointed Carolyn Ruston as policy director, who will lead on the association’s strategy with its executive, board, council and committees.
Ruston previously held the role of strategic lead for health and life sciences at the National Physical Laboratory and was responsible for the development of evidence-based policy.
Speaking about here appointment, Ruston said the AOP’s work in policy and public affairs was ‘increasingly critical’ on the major issues the profession faced.
‘Covid-19 has changed a lot of the conversations around the role of optometry in the community-led care model and its demonstrable ability to relieve pressure on the NHS through extended services for urgent and emergency eye care needs as well as in health prevention and diagnostics,’ she said.
Ruston added that commissioning, technology, regulation of the profession as well as education were areas where it was crucial the AOP had a strong voice to secure a future for its members.