Scientists have developed an injectable biosynthetic ‘glue filler’ that repairs corneal perforations, potentially removing the need for corneal donations and transplants. Read more
Novartis AMD drug Beovu secures European approval
European drug regulators have followed in the footsteps of their Australian and US counterparts, following the approval of Novartis’ new anti-VEGF therapy. Read more
Warby Parker launches its own contact lens
US-based online retailer of prescription spectacles Warby Parker has entered a new section of the ophthalmic market with its own brand of contact lenses. Read more
Ocular gene therapy begins on the NHS
The UK’s national health provider has started treating patients with Leber’s Congenital Amaurosis (LCA) with a new sight-restoring gene therapy. Read more
Lens makers leave the lab for rural bushfire response
A team of volunteers left the comfort of their optical laboratory for the charred, rugged landscapes of rural Victoria as part of efforts to aid the bushfire recovery. Read more
Lions Outback establishes first ophthalmology clinic outside Perth metro region
A former backpacker accommodation is being transformed into a new eye health clinic in Broome, featuring three resident ophthalmologists available for 24-hour emergency support to service the north west of Western Australia. Read more
Fred Hollows Foundation: Charities face tough year ahead
The Fred Hollows Foundation is warning 2020 could be one of the toughest years in recent memory for Australian charities due to a combination of the coronavirus, a weakening national economy and an outpouring of support for the bushfire crisis. Read more
Silent electric buses pose safety risk to low vision community, NSW inquiry told
A government inquiry into electric buses has heard more than one third of vision-impaired people surveyed have experienced a collision or near-miss with an electric vehicle. Read more
Ellex CEO steps down as company shifts to new business model
Further leadership changes have occurred at Ellex Medical Lasers with the resignation of its interim CEO, as the company prepares to offload its lasers and ultrasound business to focus on higher growth ophthalmic segments. Read more
Multi-million dollar Aussie project to cut optometry false-positive rate
Australian agencies are collaborating with technology firm Big Picture Medical in a $12 million project to develop an AI-assisted platform that could reduce inappropriate patient management at the primary point-of-care. Read more