Optometry Australia launches KPI position statement

Optometry Australia has launched a position statement on the use of Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) in optometry practice, drawing attention to the ethical and legal responsibilities of both employers and practitioners.

The position statement calls on the profession and the broader industry to ensure alignment with the standards of professional conduct set out in the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (Ahpra) Shared Code of Conduct (Code).

Skye Cappuccio, CEO, Optometry Australia, says there is need to carefully consider the KPIs used across the profession, saying, ‘While we know that KPI’s are commonly used across healthcare settings and various industries to evaluate professional performance, inappropriate use of KPIs can incentivise practices that are not in the best interests of patients, such as over-servicing or other unethical clinical behaviours.

KPIs that incentivise optometrists to breach the Code or relevant laws, whether directly or indirectly, should not be used.’

Additional resources

Optometry Australia (OA) members seeking further advice or specific guidance are encouraged to review the additional resources available on the OA website. This includes relevant webcast recordings and a comprehensive KPIs and optometry resource launched in 2020, which aims to provide detailed guidance to practitioners on the use of KPIs in optometry.

The OA website also outlines three practical case studies, developed by the Optometry Board of Australia, tackling the question of how the Code applies to KPIs related to visual fields, OCT scans and optical sales.

Need more detailed advice?

Every optometrist needs a hand from time to time and for OA members, we’re just a phone call or email away. Our dedicated team of experienced optometrists is ready to help with your clinical, ethical and professional questions.

You also have access to our HR and workplace legal advisors at Industry Legal Group (ILG) and 24/7 access to our professional indemnity insurer Avant, for tailored medico-legal advice.

Our advice is independent and unbiased, provided in complete confidentiality and without judgement.

Members can call 03 9668 8500 or log in to  book a chat with us. Members can also contact ILG on 1300 101 391 or oa@industrylegalgroup.com.au.

At a glance

• Read Optometry Australia’s KPI position statement here.
• Access KPI resources and case studies here.