Optometrists can now prescribe Lifitegrast (Xiidra®), a medication for moderate-to-severe dry eye disease used when conventional lubricants have been insufficient in managing the condition. The treatment
addresses ocular surface inflammation, a key component in the development of dry eye disease.
New standards can now be adopted to improve the quality of health care delivered to patients, including within the optometry sector, with a practice accreditation system being introduced in mid-2022.
In a landmark development, Ikervis treatment for severe keratitis in adults with dry eye disease (DED) has now been PBS-listed. It is important to note there are several clinical criteria that must be met before a patient is deemed eligible for a PBS prescription.
While being vaccinated may not guarantee not being infected with COVID-19, it may assist in disease management and minimising serious health consequences, suggests National President, Darrell Baker.
Ahpra today announced it had added optometrists to the approved sub-register of health practitioners able to provide clinical and non-clinical support directly related to the COVID-19 health response, including the opportunity to administer COVID-19 vaccinations.
In an important development, the Victorian Government has announced that optometrists are now recognised as part of the approved workforce to administer COVID-19 vaccines.
Each year 250,000 Australians undergo cataract surgery. The new standard for clinical care will optimise the way patients are prioritised for elective cataract surgery, as well as improve their access to care.
We proudly launch the 2021 ‘Cultural Responsiveness Framework for Optometrists’, developed by optometrist and researcher Dr Mandy Truong in partnership with Optometry Australia.
With National Diabetes Week underway, and only 33% of people with diabetes understanding that the disease can affect their eyes, Optometry Australia is urging optometrists to leverage the opportunity presented by KeepSight, a national eye health awareness program targeting 1.3 million Australians living with diabetes.
In celebrating this NAIDOC week, optometrist Ben Hamlyn says that the teachings of First Nations peoples at Pika Wiya provides the guidance that he needs to continually ensure that he is delivering culturally responsive and appropriate optometry services.
