Optometry Australia (OA) is now accepting applications for the first round of its Advanced Practice Recognition (APR) Program.
OA says the professional development initiative is “designed to elevate expertise, expand career opportunities and help you stay ahead in the evolving field of optometry”.
Those who are eligible include OA members, practising optometrists with a minimum of five years’ experience, and those with advanced experience in glaucoma.
Applicants would need to commit to the four-month program, starting this month.
The steps to qualification are:
- Step 1: Submit your application form and CV to policy@optometry.org.au by Tuesday, 8 April 2025.
Once accepted into the program, applicants will be guided through the following:
- Step 2: Submit evidence showing clinical experience in glaucoma. This step is based on a point system. See the comprehensive overview of the APR Program requirements and assessment process for further information. Those involved in the program will need to familiarise themselves with the Case Log explainer, then complete the Case Log Template. For other types of evidence, a list of accepted documents is included in the comprehensive overview of the APR Program requirements and assessment process.
- Step 3: Submit two detailed 3,000-word case reports demonstrating clinical expertise in glaucoma.
- Step 4: Provide a brief written response demonstrating leadership competencies.
- Step 5: Participate in a one-hour clinical discussion Interview. This will be scheduled by OA in July 2025, once Steps 1-4 are completed.
Those keen to know more can go to the APR Program requirements and assessment process.
OA says those who apply and are accepted will find “new and exciting opportunities, opening pathways to future-proof your optometry career”.
Successful applicants will:
- Gain CPD points to meet professional development requirements.
- Earn the Optometry Australia Credentialled Advanced Practitioner – Glaucoma (OACAP-G) title.
- Be supported by expert-led governance committees.
- Access exclusive ongoing education through the annual APR Program Glaucoma Symposium.
- Strengthen collaboration and deliver better health outcomes for patients.
Applicants who successfully complete the APR Program will be awarded the title Optometry Australia Credentialled Advanced Practitioner- Glaucoma (OACAP-G), which comes with a range of benefits. They will also be required to attend an annual APR Program Symposium (either in person or virtually, fees associated) and manage at least 20 glaucoma patients per year to maintain their credentials.
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