1:30min
After more than a decade of collaboration, Optometry Australia (OA) has concluded its Memorandum of Understanding with St Patrick’s Community Support Centre (St Pat’s) in Western Australia, with the ongoing delivery of optometric services now transitioning to the University of Western Australia (UWA) Optometry School.
For many years, Optometry WA (OWA) coordinated a monthly eye clinic at St Pat’s, supported by OA members who generously volunteered their time and expertise to provide care to people experiencing homelessness or significant disadvantage in the Fremantle community.
Established in 2011, the clinic has been an important part of the local health and community support landscape, helping people access essential eye care they might otherwise struggle to access.
A smooth transition for patients
As OA concludes its formal involvement with St Pat’s, optometric services will transition to the UWA Optometry School, which already operates three clinics each month at the service.
This will support continuity of care for existing patients while providing a more consistent and integrated model of service delivery through UWA’s established clinical training program.
The continuation of optometric services recognises the important role eye health plays in overall wellbeing, independence and quality of life, particularly for people experiencing homelessness or significant disadvantage.
Expression of gratitude
The generosity, professionalism and willingness of OA members to share their time and expertise have helped make quality eye care accessible to people who may otherwise face significant barriers to care.
OA sincerely thanks every member who has volunteered at the clinic, supported its work or helped make the service possible. Your contribution has been valued and appreciated and has made a meaningful difference to the people who have accessed care through St Pat’s.
We also extend our sincere thanks to the team at St Pat’s for a longstanding and valued partnership. Their collaboration, support and commitment to accessible healthcare have been central to the clinic’s success.
While OA’s formal involvement in the clinic has now concluded, we remain committed to supporting its ongoing delivery where we can.
OA will continue to work with UWA to support the transition and encourage continued involvement from the optometry profession where appropriate, helping to ensure the clinic can continue to provide valuable care to people experiencing homelessness.