There was some interesting new tech on display at last weekend’s 100% Optical event in London. Perhaps not yet garnering as much publicity as good old OCT or newer imaging systems, I did notice, bubbling underneath the surface, a number of new software platforms and ‘hubs’ developed with the aim of integrating and analysing data. This is promising. I do believe that machine learning of mass data will free up time for ECPs to interpret the outcome and explain a plan to any individual; we are communicators, not button pushers. That said, it is important that there is a free flow of information between instruments and practitioners, rather than systems tied to one single company or manufacturer.
On the back of my rant last week about the menopause, I recently sat in on the Thea-supported webinar on this subject. Among the many things I learned was how, yet again, misinterpretation of data leads to long-standing misunderstanding. The first reports of links between HRT and cancer are still widely quoted despite authorities now proving no such link is significant. Rather, the link was flagged up due to a skewed patient sampling.
As the winter grumbles on, I notice that primary care optometry practices in England have the opportunity to apply for funding to help cover the cost of replacing fossil fuel heating systems with a greener heat pump or biomass boiler. Grants of up to £6,000 are available per practice. Go to www.gov.uk and search for ‘apply boiler’.
And finally; fingers crossed for a return to the Horizon Project. It looks as if there might be a reversal of the Brexit-induced decision to take the UK out of the scheme allowing the free flow of science research throughout Europe. Great news indeed.
- Do you have an idea for a clinical feature? Email the clinical editor bill.harvey@markallengroup.com.
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