ACO launches advanced glaucoma course

The Advanced Certificate in Glaucoma is a post-graduate qualification aimed at providing optometrists across Australia and New Zealand with the opportunity to undertake comprehensive higher-level study in the specialised field. It will be presented by ophthalmologists, university lecturers and experienced optometrists under the guidance of an expert advisory committee.The six-month certificate will provide a flexible yet rigorous approach , according to an ACO statent, and will feature self-paced learning supported by online lectures, e-learning materials, donstration videos and online discussion forums.It was said that local clinical placents with ophthalmologists and interaction with colleagues would bolster networks to ensure patients were receiving a high level of care.ACO chief executive officer Ms Maureen O’Keefe said the certificate would supplent the college’s education program and expand post-graduate level courses available in Australia.Ms Jolanda de Jong, ACO general manager of professional development, added, Continuous learning is imperative to quality clinical care. Undertaking an advanced certificate contributes to skills-based career development. This grows competence and increases performance capacity for both individuals and practices. Ms Leanne Nguyen, ACO’s lead optometrist of ocular disease and hospital services, said optometrists were well-placed to work closely with ophthalmic colleagues and general medical practice to optimise outcomes for patients. This certificate will build on existing knowledge to increase connections and confidence to improve clinical care, she stated.Graduates will receive post-nominals upon completion of the full course and it is accredited for 68 CPD therapeutic points for re-registration purposes.