DISPENSING OPTICS - OCTOBER 2015 - ABDO
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OCTOBER 2015 DISPENSING OPTICS N E W S , I N F ORMATION an d ED U C ATI ON fo r OP TICIANS Dispensing Optics OCTOBER 2015
Shamir extends colour range of Transitions lenses Supported 2015 Activate Transitions by the launch Campaign of a scratch CONGRATULATIONS Your winning code is: card incentive campaign www.shamirtransition s.com for opticians. Ask your Shamir account manager for more information. NEW NEW Signature VII ™ Transitions, the swirl and XTRActive are registered trademarks and Signature is a trademark of Transitions Optical, Inc. ©2015 Transitions Optical, Inc. Photochromic performance is influenced by temperature, UV exposure and lens material.
Dispensing Optics OCTOBER 2015 33. Contents 21. 18. 28. 14. 30. Features Business Harnessing your low vision skills by Antonia Chitty 21. Product spotlight A closer look at low vision tools 32. In practice Healthy Living Opticians: a giant step forward 22. Continuing Education & Training An overview of paediatric dispensing Part 2: Communication and lenses Regulars by Andrew Cripps 5. DO Dispatches 26. Multiple choice answers The low vision patient: 6. Letters illumination, glare and contrast by Elizabeth Bartlam 8. Black Arts by ABDO president, Peter Black 28. Case report All at sea: diary of a detached retina 10. News 34. FAQs by Kim Devlin 36. Jottings FRONT COVER A busy year flies by, writes Fiona Anderson Eschenbach Optik smartLUX Digital magnifier from 38. Jobs & Notices Associated Optical Dispensing Optics OCTOBER 2015 3
DISPENSING OPTICS The Professional Journal of the Association of British Dispensing Opticians VOLUME 30 NO 10 EDITORIAL STAFF Editor Assistant Editor Managing Editor Sir Anthony Garrett CBE HonFBDO Jane Burnand Nicky Collinson BA (Hons) DO Dispatches Email ncollinson@abdo.uk.com Design and Production Rosslyn Argent BA (Hons) A SEASON OF NEW INITIATIVES Email rargent@abdo.uk.com Admin. Manager Deanne Gray It is that time of year when everything Email dgray@abdo.uk.com seems to happen at once… EDITORIAL/ADVERTISING I’d like to begin this month’s Dispatches by Telephone 0781 2734717 Email ncollinson@abdo.uk.com thanking everyone who supported this Website www.abdo.org.uk year’s ABDO Conference and Exhibition in Manchester: our SUBSCRIPTIONS members, ABDO staff, our guests and most of all, our sponsors UK £140 and exhibitors whose continued support is greatly appreciated. Overseas £150, including postage With our conference now complete, and autumn well and Apply to Tom Veti Association of British Dispensing Opticians truly upon us, my mind has turned to some of the new Godmersham Park, Godmersham, Kent CT4 7DT initiatives that we have been working on. Telephone 01227 733922 Email tomv@abdo.org.uk First of all, on page 9 we report on the latest Eyecare FAQ Website www.abdo.org.uk infographic available free of charge to members. This exciting ABDO CET project continues to grow and is being taken up by more and Head of CET Paula Stevens MA ODE BSc(Hons) more members. If you have yet to take a close look at the MCOptom FBDO CL (Hons)AD SMC(Tech) benefits of Eyecare FAQ, I suggest you do so now and see how you may be able to use these tools effectively to support ABDO CET, 5 Kingsford Business Centre, Layer Road, Kingsford, Colchester CO2 0HT your practice and patients. Telephone 01206 734155 Email cet@abdocet.infoman.org.uk Our new partnership agreement with the Worshipful or email pstevens@abdo.org.uk Company of Spectacle Makers (WCSM) is featured on page 12. The WCSM is the oldest optical organisation in the world CONTINUING EDUCATION REVIEW PANEL Joanne Abbott BSc(Hons) FBDO SMC(Tech) and it established all the early qualifications in the UK. It is Keith Cavaye FBDO (Hons) CL FBCLA the original parent body of what is now ABDO so it is fitting Andrew Cripps FBDO (Hons) PG Cert HE FHEA Kim Devlin FBDO (Hons) CL that we are working with our WCSM colleagues to deliver the Stephen Freeman BSc(Hons) MCOptom FBDO (Hons) Cert Ed best possible training to optical technicians and other support Abilene Macdonald Grute FBDO (Hons) SLD (Hons) LVA Dip Dist Ed Cert Ed staff, creating a seamless career ladder and a ready supply of Richard Harsant FBDO (Hons) CL (Hons) LVA Andrew Keirl BOptom (Hons) MCOptom FBDO entrants to the dispensing profession. Angela McNamee BSc(Hons) MCOptom FBDO (Hons) CL FBCLA Cert Ed Linda Rapley BSc FCOptom Sir Anthony Garrett ABDO general secretary JOURNAL ADVISORY COMMITTEE Richard Crook FBDO Kim Devlin FBDO (Hons) CL Kevin Gutsell FBDO (Hons) SLD Ros Kirk FBDO Angela McNamee BSc(Hons) MCOptom FBDO (Hons) CL FBCLA Cert Ed DISPENSING OPTICS IS PUBLISHED BY ABDO, 199 Gloucester Terrace, London W2 6LD DISPENSING OPTICS IS PRINTED BY P&P Litho Ltd, Hanworth, Middlesex TW13 6AR © ABDO: No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted in any form or by any means whatever without the written prior permission of the publishers Dispensing Optics welcomes contributions for possible editorial publication. However, contributors warrant to the publishers that they own all rights to illustrations, artwork or photographs submitted and also to copy which is factually accurate and does not infringe any other party’s rights ISSN 0954 3201 AVERAGE CIRCULATION: 9,025 Jan-Dec 2014 ABDO Board certification Dispensing Optics OCTOBER 2015 5
Letters @ HAVE YOUR SAY Email ncollinson@abdo.uk.com or write to Dispensing Optics, PO Box 233, Crowborough TN27 3AB COLLEGE RESPONDS ON DO REFRACTION I would like to respond to the suggestion by Peter Black in his Black Arts column (Dispensing Optics August 2015) and the LAST PUSH FOR CET CYCLE reported comments made by Simon Browning at Independent’s Day 2015, that dispensing opticians carrying out refraction As the end of the current CET cycle approaches, the ABDO CET would be a good thing. The College of Optometrists has department has been receiving many queries regarding members’ produced a paper on the subject, which can be found at specific CET requirements. www.college-optometrists.org/TheSightTest If you are newly qualified – congratulations – you will need to UK legislation requires that whenever a sight test is carried out, contact the General Optical Council (GOC) directly to find out the optometrist or doctor has to perform – for the purpose of how many points you will need to attain before the end of detecting signs of injury, disease or abnormality in the eye or the cycle. If you are having difficulty obtaining any particular elsewhere – an external and internal examination of the eye, competency or, as a contact lens optician or optometrist, need and such additional examinations as appear to be clinically to complete a peer review, then please get in touch as soon necessary. We believe that this is essential, for reasons of public as possible. health. Optometrists’ training gives them the skills to perform There are many upcoming regional ABDO CET events and other these important functions. modalities of CET to help you meet your requirements [see There are two areas in which DOs may wish to be involved in events listing on page 38]. refraction. Firstly, by refracting as a stand-alone service, without Joanne Abbott BSc(Hons) FBDO SMC(Tech) the important health checks mentioned above, and secondly by ABDO CET assistant refracting under the supervision of an optometrist. In relation to a Kent stand-alone refraction service, there is evidence, cited in our paper, that signs of treatable retinal and posterior pole eye diseases are detected during sight tests conducted by optometrists. GOC CLARIFIES REQUIREMENTS While some of these diseases may be accompanied by symptoms of visual loss or disturbance, others may be The legislation regarding CET requires all registrants to symptomless. Our position paper clearly sets out the evidence complete their full three-year CET cycle requirements by 31 and explains why it is vital that patients receive a full eye December 2015. examination and not just a ‘refraction-only’ service. Those who do not meet the requirements by this date will have In relation to the second option, during the recent consultation their names removed from the GOC register in January 2016. by the Law Commission on non-medical healthcare regulation, The registrant will be notified of our intention to remove them the College did not object to suggestions that dispensing from the register and will have 14 days to appeal this decision opticians could be trained to refract, under supervision, on the grounds of factual accuracy. If removed, the registrant providing the important health checks mentioned above are will have failed to meet a requirement of GOC registration and carried out by an appropriately qualified individual. would not be entitled to a three-month fee refund. David Parkins MSc FCOptom FEAOO Only those who it has been agreed have ‘exceptional President College of Optometrists circumstances’ for not completing their CET over the three-year London cycle will be granted an extension until March 2016 to complete their remaining CET. Exceptional circumstances include serious Peter Black replies illness or other significant events, which would have seriously One would not expect the College of Optometrists to favour affected a registrant’s ability to meet the requirements over the dispensing opticians refracting even though this is the system that three years. works well across the majority of countries worldwide. They do not Those who feel that this applies to them must contact us before cite any evidence that it is detrimental to eye health or would 31 December 2015 to inform us of the situation and provide increase cases of preventable blindness; in their own words it is documentary evidence which supports their case. based on what they “believe”. It is advisable for all registrants to review their CET requirements The RNIB reports two million people living with sight loss in the UK in the ‘My GOC’ section of our website, www.optical.org, fully half of which was preventable, and much of which identify if there is any shortfall and plan to address this before (uncorrected refractive error and untreated cataract) is reversible. 31 December 2015. The current system is clearly not fit for purpose. Marcus Dye It is wrong that the spectacle wearers, placed at a financial Acting head of education and standards disadvantage anyway, are forced to subsidise the eye healthcare of General Optical Council emmetropes and the ready readers brigade. The resulting price London distortions produced by this cross subsidy, compounded by private patients subsidising NHS patients, and fear of forced selling, is also We kindly reserve the right to edit putting people off having regular eye health checks. contributions prior to publication. Follow us on Twitter @ABDOCollege, One could argue that if people felt confident that their refraction @MembershipABDO and @ABDONews was linked to their spectacle purchase and eye health was separate, even if conducted in the same premises then, as has been ABDO events and booking experienced in parts of Canada, referrals to optometrists and information can be found at ophthalmologists would actually go up not down. www.abdo.org.uk/events Peter Black MBA FBDO Nottingham 6 Dispensing Optics OCTOBER 2015
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BLACK PETER BLACK ARTS Our monthly column from the ABDO president Seeing the light I n September I attended the 45th demonstrating that sunglasses from We might suppose if the conditions Annual Cambridge Ophthalmology Poundland give the same 100 per cent UV were very bright the pupil might be as small Symposium, the subject this year protection as top-of-the-range sunglasses. as 2mm, and that behind extremely dark being light. Two days of talks refreshed Of course the BBC would never be so sunglasses could be as wide as 8mm. Using my memory of a lot of anatomy and brand explicit, and at no point will it name the formula for the area of a circle: A=πr2, pathology and gave a fascinating view of or show brands, however, it will rightly then we can see that in theory a dark lens advances in ophthalmology. point out that UV protection is very with no UV protection at all could multiply Disappointingly, a presentation from important and demonstrate that all the exposure of the eye by a factor of 16 (a Public Health England, having tested almost sunglasses legitimately sold in the UK meet 1,500 per cent increase) increasing the risk all the LED light bulbs, laptops, tablets and the European standards on sun protection. of premature cataract and early onset of smartphones on the market, concluded that It is always very difficult to know how other age-related eye conditions, and in the levels of blue and UV light emitted are these kinds of activities will turn out for extreme UV conditions making exposure not at dangerous levels. That said, there was the profession given that a whole day’s keratitis (snow blindness) a near certainty. considerable support for blue blocking filming with three different cameramen Three quarters of the passengers’ lenses, including intraocular lenses, as it will ultimately be edited down to perhaps sunglasses we tested on the day gave 100 was felt they make a considerable five or 10 minutes. I felt promoting UV per cent UV protection. These included every difference from the point of view of visual protection whilst simultaneously getting a pair we tested from High Street retailers comfort. The real problem with LED lights it plug for dispensing opticians was the right such as Poundland, Primark and Boots. seems is flicker. thing to do. One session concentrated on the I was approached to help the BBC as a FAKING IT ON THE HIGH STREET dangers of excessive light exposure from direct result of ABDO’s EyeCare FAQ’s At Liverpool Airport around a quarter of ophthalmic instruments and there are now initiative. Armed with a newly purchased sunglasses did not give 100 per cent UV guidelines on this subject, which contact Hoya VHC Viewer Sensor, UV Torch and my protection and they fell into two distinct lens opticians and optometrists would be daughter’s iPad Mini complete with Hoya categories – counterfeit plano sunglasses well advised to heed. All speakers and UV Meter App, I rolled up at Liverpool’s and prescription sunglasses. delegates agreed that excessive exposure to John Lennon Airport. After passing through Twenty years ago, fake sunglasses were UV is not a good thing. staff security to go airside, we set ourselves being passed off as the genuine article in up in an empty retail space and stopped supposedly reputable stores. Liverpudlians RIP OFF BRITAIN passengers passing through the shopping will remember Wade Smith – an independent At the end of August I had an interesting area with the promise of a ‘sunglasses MOT’. retailer with half a dozen large city centre day helping the BBC film a small section of stores selling top designer brands at top a Rip Off Britain programme about holiday LITTLE HAS CHANGED IN 20 YEARS prices – ladies’ and gents’ apparel, shoes, rip-offs to be screened in January 2016. The last time I was involved in such a piece sunglasses, kids items, accessories, sports Alongside comparisons of package holidays, of research was on the receiving end when and outdoor clothing – which collapsed flights, and sun creams will be a feature Liverpool Trading Standards investigated all overnight when it was revealed that fakes local sunglasses retailers, including had entered their supply chain. opticians, to see whether or not their Fakes made up around a third of total sunglasses gave the full 100 per cent UVA sunglasses tested and more than half of and UVB protection that they should. Back them gave 100 per cent UV protection – then in the early 1990s, fully half of the even the deliberately mis-spelt RayoBam’s! sunglasses they tested failed to give These days, with one exception, all the adequate protection from UV. people were aware they had purchased a fake Sunglasses that give little or no UV largely because they had paid peanuts at protection are worse than not wearing any beachside stalls abroad. They were much sunglasses at all since behind a dark lens, less aware of the dangers of UV, and more the pupil might dilate to three or four times importantly that sunglasses that fail to BBC programme will highlight European its minimum diameter that it would protect from UV are worse than no sunglasses standards on UV sunglass protection normally exhibit in bright light conditions. at all. 8 Dispensing Optics OCTOBER 2015
The one exception to customers not knowing that their sunglasses were fake was an ageing RayBan that was claimed to have been purchased from an opticians for £180 and did not give full UV protection. We have all been offered job lots of ‘grey market’ designer sunglasses and frames from time to time and may have been tempted to inject a little profitability in austere times. This experience, and the fact A measure of the UV transmitted by an that the fakes in China Town in Kuala unfiltered UV torch Lumpur are absolutely indistinguishable from the real RayBans and Oakleys down to of just over 2,400μW/cm2 – a reduction of the last detail of their packaging, tells me approximately 87 per cent. In bright sunlight, we really need to be very careful if buying my pupils are around 2mm diameter (1mm outside of the approved UK supply chain. radius) and in dark conditions around 6mm To be fair, I didn’t test many prescription (3mm radius) so the potential is to allow nine sunglasses as this was not the purpose of the times more light into the eye. Nine x 330 = filming and certainly won’t form part of the 2,970μW/cm2 so it is possible my old programme, however, most CR39 dip dyed Rx prescription sunglasses expose me to over sunglasses failed to block 100 per cent UV. 20 per cent more UV light than not wearing any sunglasses at all. WHY BS IS BS My understanding is that all sunglasses ARE YOUR PRESCRIPTION SUNGLASSES should give 100 per cent protection from TO STANDARD? UVA and UVB and I am confident this is the Of course my interest was piqued and I dug standard for plano sunglasses. But what out other old glasses and lens samples that about prescription ones? I have checked my I know have been supplied by major ABDO British Standards (BS) Extracts and also the College of Optometrists’ guidance manufacturers rather than simply dip dyed in the practice workshop. They all – Zeiss, WHAT’S NEW ON and can’t find conclusive evidence of any Rodenstock, Hoya, Norville, Essilor, Oakley EYECARE FAQ? standard at all. and Shamir – still gave 100 per cent UV How does your practice engage with I have long held that the system of protection. So is your lab up to scratch? Is patients between visits? Stay in touch standards we have is ridiculous and this is a your technician ensuring Rx sunglasses, by sharing resources from Eyecare case in point. I believe standards should be even those ubiquitous BOGOFF ones, have FAQ, ABDO’s campaign to help financed by industry and then freely a UV block applied as well as a tint? consumers learn more about looking available to ensure compliance. Now let’s Whether you dip dye on the premises, after their eyes, and the role of the assume there is an ISO/EN/BS standard for buy in pre-tinted uncuts, or order complete registered dispensing optician. UV transmittance on prescription sunglasses: jobs from elsewhere, do you have the New this month on Eyecare FAQ, how am I to know which one it is? If I take facilities on your premises to check the you’ll find an infographic to share on a reasonable guess, what am I to do if I sunglasses you supply give the 100 per cent ‘who’s who in eyecare’ as well as careers purchase it and it turns out not to provide UV protection the consumer has the right in optics – a jargon-busting lingo bingo me with the information I require? Should I to expect. Some automatic focimeters have card about the different optical roles. just buy all the British Standards and hope this facility built in, or you might have the There are questions and answers on this for the best? This would run into thousands Hoya sensor and app or even a UV light and many other topics in the public part and thousands of pounds. More to the point, meter. Failing that, does your supplier of the ABDO website, www.abdo.org.uk/ how can the public understand what standard provide a certificate to state, as happens on information-for-the-public/eyecarefaq/ their sunglasses should be supplied to? plano sunglasses, what filter category they Eyecare FAQ is at: I don’t know whether uncoated tinted are, their driving suitability and to certify • www.facebook.com/eyecarefaq • www.twitter.com/eyecarefaq CR39 lenses lose their UV blocking ability 100 per cent UV protection? • plus.google.com/+eyecarefaq with time but my findings (repeated below How many people tint by eye or have • www.pinterest.com/eyecarefaq on a pair of my own Rx sunglasses) are forgotten about lenses in the tint bath only • instagram.com/eyecarefaq/ rather concerning. for them to come out darker than usual? You can also stay in touch with The graph shows a measure of the UV What if the lenses instead of having 15 per colleagues and access news from the transmitted by the unfiltered UV torch, cent LTF have an LTF of seven per cent that world of optics via the ABDO official page then my Silhouette Clip-On (zero per cent), renders them unsuitable for driving under on Facebook. Find us at https://www. then the torch again, then a pair of my own any conditions even in daylight? Would you facebook.com/ABDOMembers. You can prescription sunglasses that have been lying know? Are you protecting your patients? also find news for ABDO members on at the back of a drawer for 20 years. Are you protecting yourself if your patient Twitter @MembershipAbdo, and more You can see as the picture is taken the has a car accident and the sunglasses are general news from the world of eyes at sensor is measuring transmitted UV at considered to be a contributing factor? @ABDONews 330μW/cm2 compared to an initial reading Time to reflect… Dispensing Optics OCTOBER 2015 9
NEWS RELYING ON STATE IS “NOT LONG-TERM ANSWER” Relying on the state is not the long-term answer to proper remuneration for General Ophthalmic Services (GOS), believes ABDO as the UK’s professional bodies are asked to encourage their members to ‘ban free or cheap eye tests’. In response to the recent one per cent increase in GOS fees and optical voucher values, the council of the Association Charity biking at Essilor’s stand Tanya Storey for Independent Optometrists and Dispensing Opticians (AIO) has called CONFERENCE CALL TO STOREY OF SUCCESS upon the Optical Confederation and its MANCHESTER CENTRAL Shamir has named Tanya Storey as its member bodies – ABDO, the Association of Optometrists and the Federation of It was destination Manchester for the new head of sales and professional Ophthalmic and Dispensing Opticians – 2015 ABDO Conference and Exhibition services. last month, as delegates from across the to: “encourage all their members to stop A qualified dispensing optician, Tanya UK gathered for a full two-day has been Shamir’s product development misleading the public, to ban ‘free’ or programme of CET, business, networking manager for the past eight years; she will cheap ‘eye tests’, and to charge and exhibition-going. now drive the commercial development of transparent and realistic fees for all At the new venue of Manchester professional services.” the business. Central, delegates took part in a varied CET The AIO added: “If this proves “Tanya’s comprehensive understanding programme, with workshops, special tracks of the ophthalmic industry is of great unachievable then legislation needs to laid on by the British Contact Lens benefit to both our customers and our be changed so a practitioner is unable Association and Association of Optometrists, peer review, keynote team of lens consultants,” said Phil to claim a GOS fee higher than their lectures, exhibition and social events that Bareham, Shamir general manager. “Her private fee.” included a drinks reception in Manchester passion for the industry and broad Speaking to Dispensing Optics, ABDO Central Library and gala dinner at the four- experience will continue to strengthen general secretary, Tony Garrett, said: “I star Midland Hotel opposite the our position and levels of support that we understand the concerns raised by the AIO conference venue. can offer.” in relation to the recent announcement The event also offered a new Student Tanya added: “I’m very proud to be part about sight test fees and voucher values. Revision Zone allowing students to of such a highly skilled and motivated Despite the best endeavours of the practice for their practical PQE and FQE under supervision, as well as a Guide Dog team. I very much look forward to leading representative bodies, the Optical Fees demonstration and pre-conference golf the commercial contingent onwards and Negotiating Committee, the government tournament. A full report will appear in the building Shamir’s relationships within all has once again imposed a non-negotiated November issue of Dispensing Optics. sectors of our industry.” minimal increase this year. “However, the fact is we live in a highly competitive environment where quality as well as price are key factors. Consumer choice is a major consideration for the government and no amount of special pleading will lead to a change in legislation. OWP model 8603 “ABDO believes that the provision of high quality services, including wholly FRAME TECHNOLOGY UNFOLDED professional dispensing, is the way forward. The optical bodies will continue to New styles 7593 and 8603 from OWP’s men’s collection feature a quadruple folded press for better remuneration for services metal part designed so that there’s enough space for not just a flex hinge, but also for a metal needle and screw to secure the long tip end. provided, but relying on the state is not The special folding techniques are used on the temple tips of style 8603 (pictured). the long-term answer. The future lies in For the long end tips, acetate with many different coloured layers is used and the our hands. Quality, service and reliability decorations come in strong colours. The OWP men’s collection currently comprises of are our assets and we need to make them 23 styles. work for us,” added Tony. 10 Dispensing Optics OCTOBER 2015
Dash • Sporty semi-wrap design with flexi-sides • Available in 6 colours • Adjustable side tips • Clip-in glazeable Rx insert Racer • Sports wrap design • Available in 5 colours • Adjustable ‘tyre tread’ sides • Rx glazeable adaptor For more information Tel: 01452 510321 Email: sales@norville.co.uk View online: www.norville.co.uk
NEWS NEW WCSM COURSES PROSPECTUS ABDO College has published a new prospectus, which outlines the full range of training courses it now provides leading to the Worshipful Company of Spectacle Makers (WCSM) qualifications. WCSM qualifications lay a solid foundation for the development of The pop star wearing essential optical skills and open up a Natural Sparkle lenses clearly defined career pathway. Commenting on the courses, Debbie Gigg, course coordinator – optical support PIXIE IS NEW programmes for ABDO College, said: “The FACE OF DEFINE WCSM courses available from ABDO College range from Level 2 Optical Support Pop star Pixie Lott is the new face of 1-Day to Level 4 Optical Technicians and a new Acuvue Define contact lenses. Level 4 Optical Assistant will be available Marcella McParland, Johnson & Johnson early in the New Year. Vision Care director of professional affairs, Ready for anything “The courses at Level 2 and 3 consist of UK and Ireland, said: “With her huge three mandatory units plus a range of following of fashion-conscious young URBAN BRAND optional units. Learners can build up credits women, Pixie Lott is an ideal ambassador rather than having to do a qualification in LOOKBOOK one hit, thereby there’s an element of for 1-Day Acuvue Define. Her support will help us to further raise awareness of the Norville has released its latest Duck and flexibility. For an information pack with UK and Ireland’s only natural eye-enhancing Cover catalogue with 28 new models details of the next intakes, fees, deadlines contact lens, and get women excited to try across both the ophthalmic and sunwear and application forms just contact ABDO these new lenses. collections. College.” “Pixie has been wearing contact lenses With the tagline, ‘Ready for anything’, the To obtain a copy of the 2015/16 WCSM Courses Prospectus, please contact the from a young age, and since her first fitting range features a mix of metals and plastic Courses Team at ABDO College on 01227 of Define she has loved how both the styles that reflect the look, feel and trend of the brand. Models include DC034 C1, a 738 829 (Option 1), or email Natural Shimmer and Natural Sparkle trendy full rim rectangle eye with metal and info@abdocollege.org.uk variants brighten and enhance her eyes. plastic mix, flat press metal temples with With her brown eyes, Natural Shimmer inset brand logo and tort temple tips. FOR THE MOST UP-TO-DATE ABDO really enhances the colour by giving added * Norville has increased the plus power EVENT DETAILS keep an eye out for the depth and intensity.” range of its n=1.67 Flat Top bifocals up to eNews landing in your in box, and the For a range of marketing, point-of-sale +17.00DS in stock additions from +2.00 to events section of the website, visit and education materials visit www.abdo.org.uk/events +3.50. www.jnjvisioncare.co.uk/define CONFERENCE CATCH-UP PUNCTUMS UNPLUGGED UltraVision CLPL caught up with ABDO Positive Impact (PI) is running a series of members at the Association’s Conference CET evenings around the country focused in Manchester last month to discuss the on managing dry eye with punctum plugs, latest innovations in its contact lens having recently become the distributor for design. the BVI range of semi-permanent and This includes the use of unique absorbable punctum plugs. freeform stabilisation to accelerate lens This adds to the company’s previous acquisition of InflammaDry, said to be the settling speed and diminish mislocation only in-practice test that detects MMP-9, Dry eye CET evening this month during wear, “making it a perfect form of a biomarker for inflammation that is stabilisation for patients with high levels consistently elevated in the tears of patients with dry eye disease. of astigmatism and for those who struggle The meetings kick off in Manchester on 6 October and will initially visit Birmingham with erratic visual acuity,” said Josie (8 October), Gatwick (13 October), London (14 October) and Southampton (15 October). Barlow, UltraVision CLPL clinical and PI joint managing director, Nick Atkins, said: “It is disappointing that so few patients operations manager. in the UK, who could benefit from being plugged, are not being managed optimally. We As well as showcasing its other award- believe that High Street optometry has a significant role to play in managing suitable winning contact lens designs, UltraVision patients using this simple procedure. With our two patented technologies, we are now CLPL also demonstrated that ABDO ideally placed to support the profession in this goal. The key thing is for optometrists and members can ‘Always Say Yes’ to their contact lens opticians to see how safe, effective and simple to carry out the procedure is contact lens patients regardless of their and then to be suitably trained to deliver it. These evening seminars are the first step visual needs. along this road.” To book email plugs@positiveimpactsales.co.uk 12 Dispensing Optics OCTOBER 2015
It’s a feeling Stepper UK Limited 11 Tannery Road Tonbridge Kent TN9 1RF 01732 375975 Frame style shown: Si 50079
NEWS Optics cycling for sight Paul Walden TOUR T’YORKSHIRE FEAT PAUL MAKES A MOVE On Sunday 30 August, 21 cyclists began their journey to complete Stage 1 of this Paul Walden has joined the Lenstec year’s Tour de Yorkshire. Group as technical and sales director, Organised by Eyecare, the World Sight Day (8 October) Challenge is the largest following the retirement of sales director organised cycle ride in aid of Optometry Giving Sight (OGS). The 107-mile challenge began Martin Burroughs. at Sewerby Hall and Gardens, and a total of 2,702 miles were cycled in one day raising Paul worked for the Norville Group for more than £6,000 for OGS. This has contributed towards the current Optics Cycling for more than 30 years, and was UK sales Sight 2015 total, which is now over £10,500. manager before joining the Norville board The target is to collectively cycle 25,000 miles and raise £25,000 for OGS as part of of directors in 2006. He said: “I am very the World Sight Day Challenge. Essilor will match the first £10,000 raised – and at the finish line cyclists were welcomed by their ‘Think About Your Eyes’ Protectors. much looking forward to joining the David Shannon, OGS UK development manager, said: “This is a tremendous Lenstec board and senior group lab teams achievement. On behalf of the 600 million people around the world who are visually to help further develop their expanding impaired because they do not have access to glasses, I would like to congratulate and portfolio of products and meeting their thank the riders who gave up their Bank Holiday Sunday, their families, generous sponsors customers’ needs to support the and in particular Eyecare without whom this fantastic event could not have happened.” independent sector.” Pictured from left with an Essilor Protector are Simon Burnley, Nick Wallwork and Ian Kenworthy. Visit www.oc4s.co.uk to get involved. STYLISH AND MINIMALIST Silhouette’s new Titan Contour Fullrim collection for men, launching for 2015/16, combines a contemporary urban design with lightness and comfort. Screwless lens fixes and snap hinges make up “a unique frame that integrates technology with wearability”, weighing just 4.4 grams. The collection is Silhouette Titan comprised of two shapes – flat/edgy and rectangular – and is available in Silver Black, Contour Fullrim Gold and Black, Grey Tobacco and Jeans Blue. championing and serving professionals in owners of the Optician, we will be combining NEW DIRECTION the optical sector. Having spoken to the our knowledge of the healthcare industry FOR OPTRAFAIR team at the Mark Allen Group, I am very with our expertise in organising large-scale excited about their ideas for developing events to deliver Optrafair, in partnership The Federation of Manufacturing Optrafair and in further establishing it as with the FMO. Working with the FMO to Opticians (FMO) and MA Healthcare, part the must-attend event for visitors help further extend the opportunities for of the Mark Allen Group (MAG), have from the UK and around the world to eyecare professionals at Optrafair was one entered into a partnership to deliver experience the very best in eyewear, of the key factors in our decision to Optrafair following the sale of Optician design, technology, business services and acquire the Optician.” magazine by Reed Business Information. education.” In 2016, Optrafair will be held at the FMO chairman, Barry Dibble, said: “The Ben Allen, MAG chief executive, added: National Exhibition Centre in Birmingham Optician and the FMO lead the way in “I am delighted that, as the proud new from 9-11 April. 14 Dispensing Optics OCTOBER 2015
Sirus Plus ® No need to move your head every time you Progressive lenses bringing all the benefits of technology want to see clearly! www.bbgr.co.uk Tel: 0844 880 1349 Always closer
NEWS Charity call to sign petition No quibble guarantee CAMPAIGN FOR VULNERABLE CHILDREN New research from SeeAbility, the national sight loss and disability charity, shows BLUE LIGHT BENEFITS that some 37 per cent of pupils attending special schools have no history of eye New Kodak BluProtect comes as an examinations. addition to Kodak Clean & CleAR, This and other statistics are contained in a new report, ‘An equal right to sight’, offering the advantages of the published by SeeAbility as part of its Children in Focus Campaign, which draws evidence company’s AR technology. from the charity’s research project with Cardiff University’s School of Optometry and According to the company, the selective Vision Science. reflection allows BluProtect lens “We are calling on the government to make sight tests available in every special technology to provide the best protection school in England,” said David Scott-Ralphs, SeeAbility chief executive. “Children with profound disabilities may not be able to tell someone they have a sight problem, or get from blue light within a lens that resists to a High Street optician. Let’s bring much needed eyecare to them instead.” dirt, scratches and glare. The technology The charity is urging people to sign a petition on its website, www.seeability.org, filters out shorter wavelength light, which which it plans to hand to the Department of Health. is naturally focused in front of the retina, leading to less eye strain and more news, policy pages and a new ‘For patients’ comfortable viewing over longer periods of OT TO GO MONTHLY section of the AOP website. time. A reduction in the glare caused by The Association of Optometrists (AOP) Henrietta Alderman, AOP chief blue light entering the eye enables the has announced that its fortnightly executive, said: “These exciting changes wearer to better compensate to changing journal, Optometry Today (OT), is to be will bring all aspects of the organisation light conditions, offering greater visible published just once a month from together with a consistent visual identity contrast. 31 October. across a single site, to better reflect our Kodak is offering a ‘no quibble’ anti- The move comes in response to work protecting, supporting and scratch guarantee valid for two years on research and feedback from members and representing today’s optical professionals. every lens ordered with Kodak Clean & journal readers, and will be accompanied “Our members, subscribers and website Clear, Kodak BluProtect or new Kodak by a brand re-ignition across all AOP visitors can look forward to an improved C&C UV. communications. online experience, with even more CET and Print and full online access to OT will all the latest optical news. The changes to be restricted to AOP members and OT our website, journal and brand are an VISION ARENA subscribers from late October. Daily news investment in the future of the Association ROADSHOW DATES content across OT online will continue to and will give our members and OT be accessible to the public, along with subscribers much better value.” Vision Arena 2015, the annual CET and business roadshow organised by Bondeye and Shamir, will take place on 2 November ACTIVE LIFESTYLE OPTIONS at the Mercure London Watford Hotel, and on 16 November at the Headingly The new Wildcharge and Whipstart models by Adidas Eyewear feature a variety of technologies, colours and advanced mirror lenses to help deliver the perfect look and Carnegie Stadium in Leeds. clear vision in any situation. The theme of the roadshow is ‘Practice Lens tint options utilise Adidas Eyewear’s proprietary Light Stabilising Technology in makes perfect’ and both events will include active silver to harmonise light fluctuations. Key features include ribbed grip temples for a pre-conference get-together. In London, stability, adjustable nose pads and quick- delegates are invited to dine in the Great release temples that pop apart on impact. Hall of Hogwarts at Warner Bros and the Both versions are prescription-ready World of Harry Potter on 1 November, with direct in-frame glazing or clip-in while Leeds delegates will enjoy a Boogie inserts. Wildcharge (pictured) is available Nights party at the stadium venue on in 10 different colour and filter 15 November. combinations, while Whipstart comes in Find out more and book at New Wildcharge from Adidas nine variations. www.visionarena.co.uk 16 Dispensing Optics OCTOBER 2015
NEWS VISTA WWW.VISIONMATTERS.ORG.UK ❋ YOUR EYES ❋ YOUR VISION ❋ YOUR HEALTH EAT SMART THE TOP FOODS YOU NEED STEP BY TO MAINTAIN HEALTHY EYES, THROUGH THE STEP YEARS WHAT TO EXPECT FROM A SIGHT TEST, AND WHAT HAPPENS AFTER In style A GUIDE TO THE HOTTEST 2015 AUTUMN/WINTER FASHION TRENDS FOR GLASSES OG Family Plus: 䖩㻌RECIPE IDEAS 䖩㻌PERFECT YOUR BEAUTY LOOK 䖩㻌VISUAL SKILLS COACHING FOR SPORT 䖩㻌GET THE AEROBIC MOVES 䖩㻌FIRST AID FOR EYES FAMILY ICONS Some of the visiting children 䖩㻌EYE HEALTH BEHIND THE WHEEL 䖩㻌REAL LIFE STORIES RECREATED published by official magazine for in partnership with The first new sunglass designs from the CLINIC FOR Goldsmith family in more than 30 years Consumer eyecare magazine made their debut at Silmo in Paris last CHERNOBYL CHILDREN month. Staff at Edmonds & Slatter Opticians in PUTTING THE PUBLIC Using the extensive family archive and original sketches, the new OG Family Glenfield gave up their day off recently IN THE PICTURE to run an extra sight test clinic for 14 collection recreates history featuring exact young children visiting from Chernobyl. National Eye Health Week (NEHW) has authentic replicas of the original frames as The visit was arranged by the Friends teamed up with the Royal National designed by Oliver Goldsmith himself. of Chernobyl’s Children charity as part of Institute of Blind People (RNIB) to Each frame is named after well-known a four-week recuperative visit to the UK, publish Vista, a 60-page consumer streets, places and landmarks in London, which will help build up the children’s lifestyle magazine designed to raise and features an original design detail taken immune systems. awareness of the importance of regular from an OG Icon, such as lens shape, Assistant manager Carol Barker said: temple shape or cutting detail. In the same sight tests and how lifestyle choices can way that each OG Icon carries its original “All British children enjoy the privilege of affect eye health. conception date on the temple, each OG a free eye test from the NHS but as these Edited by consumer health journalist, Family ‘member’ carries the stamp of the children were visitors, we were happy to donate our time and testing skills free Rachel Symonds, with contributions from icon they are related to on their temple tip. of charge.” leading healthcare experts, Vista includes “The OG Family represents a new take on timeless and classic design combining No spectacles were required, but the features on the importance of regular that with a fresh aesthetic that can only children did not leave empty handed as sight tests, exclusive recipes, celebrity be instilled by a new generation,” said goodie bags with assorted toys and sweets interviews, true life stories recounting Claire Goldsmith. were provided. people’s experiences of living with poor eye health, tips on how to be screen smart, LENS OFFER make-up and style advice plus a round-up of the latest eye health news, quizzes Nikon is offering customers who purchase any pair of Nikon spectacle lenses across and more. its range a second pair at half price. Nikon MD, Martin Thompson, said: ”Nikon offers a wide range of state-of-the-art lens David Cartwright, NEHW chair, said: options that deliver superior optical performance, better aesthetics and comfort. Now is “Vista is an exciting concept in public an ideal time to purchase an additional pair of spectacle lenses at special prices.” eye health promotion. By presenting important health messages in a stylish HELP AT HAND magazine format we hope to encourage more people to have regular sight tests Ill health, issues of ageing and genuine problems faced by those who have worked and inspire them to make healthier within manufacturing optics may be eased by a grant from the Optical Workers’ lifestyle choices that reduce the risk of Benevolent Fund (OWBF). avoidable sight loss.” For nearly 20 years the charity has helped those who have suffered from heart attacks, needed help with mobility aids, assisted with home decoration and the purchase of a bicycle Copies of the magazine were sent out to get to work. Respite breaks for long-term carers are also a source of support offered. in the NEHW supporter resource packs For those who feel they would quality for help, or know of another who would benefit and distributed at official NEHW events from some support, contact the charity via the FMO office 020 7298 5123 or email last month. View the magazine online at sfisher@fmo.co.uk www.visionmatters.org.uk/news 18 Dispensing Optics OCTOBER 2015
6MÄJPHS
NEWS Obituary Jonathan W. Courtenage By Gina Robinson FBDO SMC(Tech) Jon Courtenage FBDO died suddenly at home on 29 July aged only 40. Jon joined RA&F Riley Optometrists in 1992 as a young man straight from school and attended City and Islington College, qualifying as a dispensing optician in 1998. Highly accomplished, he stayed on in the same practice, renamed Dolphins Optometrists, when it was taken over by Umesh Patel in April this year. Jon was passionate about engineering and fast cars and was very proud of his achievements in all his endeavours. Jon will be remembered by all his colleagues and patients as a warm and caring person, always smiling and a devoted dad to his two small children. He leaves behind his wife Kayleigh and children Harry and Olivia, parents Ken and Madeline and sister Annette. Donations in his memory may be made to Great Ormond Street Hospital and Bentley Wildfowl and Motor Museum c/o WM Collins & Son Funeral Directors, 43 Station Road, Burgess Hill RH15 9DE. Latest styles from Zoobug CATCHING THE BUG TWENTY YEARS AND COUNTING At Silmo in Paris last month, Mondottica Black & Lizars is celebrating 20 years of business in Ayrshire following the acquisition showcased its newly formed international of the Kilgours’ practices in Troon and Ayr. children’s eyewear division, which includes To mark the occasion, the company’s Zoobug London. managing director Geraldine Wood presented a bouquet of flowers to Troon practice Following the announcement of the manager, Alison Bargh, who has worked there strategic partnership in July, the collection from day one. offers premium sun and optical collection Alison said: “I’m delighted that we have for boys and girls. Zoobug London, which reached this milestone but it certainly launched in 2006, has pioneered the doesn’t feel like 20 years since we opened. development of eyewear designed specifically Over the last 20 years the advances in for children over the last decade. technology and sheer range of frames has been vast, but I still get the same sense of achievement when fitting a child with their A special thank you first set of glasses and seeing the difference it makes to their world.” PRESENTING THEIR CASE A company called Lensbotic has launched DRIVING LENS SALES a battery-powered self-cleaning contact lens case, claiming it is the first product Zeiss’s new DriveSafe Lenses are designed to address what market research studies of its kind on the UK market. with consumers has identified as the three most common visual challenges Being sold direct to the public via its experienced by drivers. website, www.lensbiotic.com, the device The lenses feature a new DuraVision DriveSafe Coating to reduce perceived glare generates vibrations and turbulence within by up to 64 per cent compared to premium the lens case that removes built-up protein AR coatings. Zeiss has also developed a and particles. The company says it can be new Luminance Design Technology to give used with any multipurpose solution and wearers better vision in low-light gives the wearer lenses that are efficiently conditions. Finally, the lens design makes it cleaned and disinfected. easier for progressive lens wearers to “We believe that Lensbotic’s contact quickly refocus between the road, Opportunities with new DriveSafe Lenses lenses cleaning device is one of the best dashboard and mirrors. It also features ways to improve and maintain people’s optimised distance and intermediate viewing zones, reducing the need for horizontal contact lens hygiene and therefore every head movement. contact lens wearer should own one,” said Peter Robertson, marketing and communications director for Carl Zeiss Vision, said: Lensbiotic CEO Karolina Lofqvist, who “Research shows that patients are willing to pay up to 20 per cent more for the benefits founded the company in June with fellow that Zeiss DriveSafe Lenses provide.” Swedish finance graduate, Jasmine Tagesson. The lenses are available in both enhanced single vision and progressive lenses. 20 Dispensing Optics OCTOBER 2015
LOW VISION A closer look at low vision tools A s former ABDO president and low vision practitioner, Jennifer Brower, explains in this month’s business and marketing focused article (pages 30-31), if you’re routinely advising your patients about lighting, large print or colour and contrast, then you are already involved in low vision work. But what products and support tools are available for your patients and practice? SUPPORT FOR PATIENTS WITH MACULAR DEGENERATION Optelec’s in-practice Low Vision Kit comes with staff training to allow eyecare practitioners to help offer support to patients who have been diagnosed with macular degeneration. Paul Fletcher, Optelec managing director, explained: “In many parts of the UK, most rehabilitation is done through hospital low vision clinics up to a certain point and then it stops. With our in-practice demo kit, which Optelec’s Compact HD Plus video magnifier contains a narrow range of optical magnifiers, and a portable Compact Plus HD video magnifier, we can train front-of-practice staff so that they can ask about what power magnifier people are currently using, demonstrate similar and better products and the electronic magnifier which is not supplied on the NHS.” www.uk.optelec.com SIMPLICITY IS KEY IN NEW DIGITAL MAGNIFIER DESIGN Associated Optical has released the second-generation version of the highly successful Eschenbach Optik smartLUX Digital magnifier. “Simplicity was key to the development of this digital magnifier,” explained Stuart Baldwin, sales director of UK distributor, Associated Optical. “Using only three buttons, its intuitive design allows the user to select from four magnifications – 5x, 7x, 9x or 12x –, then to cycle through five different viewing modes and capture and store up to 20 images.” The second-generation Eschenbach Optik smartLUX The smartLUX Digital features a generous five-inch, anti-reflective Digital magnifier in use screen, affording the user a comfortable reading experience in virtually any environment. It also weighs just 220g and so is said to be the ideal reading companion either at home or away. www.associatedoptical.com MAKING LOW VISION PRACTICE SIMPLE AND PROFITABLE Informing patients about low vision aids can significantly improve their quality of life, believes Hilco, which since 1956 has been providing thousands of eyecare professionals with Hilco/Wilson Ophthalmic solutions to common practice needs and for new practice growth opportunities. “As the population ages, there is an increase in the number of people whose eyes cannot be corrected adequately with conventional eyewear,” said Melanie Peackock, Hilco Europe operations manager. “Despite the growing patient need, many eyecare professionals have been reluctant to take advantage of this practice growth opportunity. “Our low/occupational vision programme includes a complete range of high quality and high performance products designed to streamline diagnosis and aid in the treatment of these conditions,” added Melanie. High performance www.hilco.com low vision products from Hilco Next month’s product spotlight is on new autumn/winter eyewear lines. Dispensing Optics OCTOBER 2015 21
CET COMPETENCIES COVERED Dispensing opticians: Communication, Professional Conduct, Optical Appliances, Refractive Management, Paediatric Dispensing Optometrists: Communication, Professional Conduct , Optical Appliances This article replaces the scheduled article on low vision. Members still missing the low vision competency should contact the CET Office for suggestions of alternative routes to completion of that competency. An overview of paediatric dispensing by Andrew Cripps FBDO (Hons) Part 2: Communication and lenses P art 1 of this article, published disruptive, so the dispensing optician (DO) The choice of vocabulary when dealing in the July 2015 issue of must be prepared for whatever reaction is with parents can cause problems – the Dispensing Optics, considered presented. If a family member wears word ‘lazy’ for instance could be interpreted the law regarding paediatric spectacles this can help to reassure a in a wider sense than the one intended. dispensing, frame selection worried child, but if this is not the case Other terms familiar to those working in facial and frame measurements, as well as then parents may appear very concerned ophthalmic optics will mean very little to adjustment and repair of paediatric about why their child should need to wear parents so it is important to avoid the optical appliances. In Part 2, we consider spectacles. Explaining the reasons why must jargon and technical terminology. A bold communication and lens dispensing. be done without resorting to jargon so that statement such as, “I’m afraid your child trust and confidence is built up. has astigmatism” is bound to cause anxiety EFFECTIVE COMMUNICATION A discussion on the clinical reasons is whereas a quick sketch showing the football As children attending the practice will be best accompanied by something visual, and rugby ball and language everyone can accompanied by parents or a guardian, the preferably for the parents to take away, as understand is more likely to inform without conversation will be between three or more a reminder of what has been said. Parents inducing alarm. people and not just on a one-to-one basis. who appear sceptical about explanations First impressions are very important so it is should also be told what the likely outcome TESTING PRIORITIES essential that adults are greeted with would be if the spectacles are not worn. The methods and equipment used to warmth and understanding. Once contact is If this is accomplished in a firm but examine a child’s eyes will depend on their made, attention can be turned to the child sympathetic manner, the parents are age and what can reasonably be expected so that everyone feels included. usually won over. A demonstration is and accomplished. There will be a number With very young children most of the usually effective, so assuming the child of significant conditions, which are age- conversation will be directed towards the has about 3.00D of myopia, a pair of related. Amblyopia and strabismus need adults although the child should not feel +3.00D ready-made readers can be offered investigating for children up to school age left out. Older children may be inquisitive, to parents to help them appreciate the whereas myopia, signs of significant reticent, excited, apprehensive or just visual problem. hypermetropia and astigmatism become This article has been approved for 1 CET point by the GOC. It is open to all FBDO members, and associate member optometrists. The multiple-choice questions (MCQs) for this month’s CET are available online only, to comply with the GOC’s Good Practice Guidance for this type of CET. Insert your answers to the six MCQs online at www.abdo.org.uk. After log-in, go to ‘CET Online’. Questions will be presented in random order. Please ensure that your email address and GOC number are up-to-date. The pass mark is 60 per cent. The C-41897 answers will appear in the January 2016 issue of Dispensing Optics. The closing date is 12 December 2015. 22 Dispensing Optics OCTOBER 2015
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