Aerosol and spatter generation in some ophthalmic procedures has been a concern during the COVID-19 pandemic, but Kiwi researchers have found no visible contamination above the neckline of cataract surgeons performing phacoemulsification. Read more
Exorbitant prices in remote communities hinder trachoma efforts
Access to basic cleaning and hygiene products are essential in Australia’s efforts to eliminate trachoma in remote Indigenous communities, however residents in those areas can pay up to three times more for items such as towels and soap, an inquiry has heard. Read more
Australia marks 20th anniversary for World Sight Day
An active social media campaign, including a video message from Prime Minister Scott Morrison, is highlighting the contributions of the eye sector over the past 20 years ahead of World Sight Day. Read more
Young optometrist first Australian to claim American research fellowship
An associate lecturer is the first Australian to receive an international research fellowship in its 95-year history, for his project on subtyping open angle glaucoma. Read more
Aussie firm introduces NovaTears +Omega-3 eye drop
ASX-listed AFT Pharmaceuticals has expanded its therapeutics range with a new dry eye therapy containing Omega-3. Read more
Only half of Australian diabetics getting recommended eye checks
As the KeepSight program hit 100,000 enrolments, a new University of Sydney study has found only half of diabetics are getting the recommended eye checks, putting them at risk of significant vision loss and blindness. Read more
Cornea transplant policy out-of-step with current evidence
A US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) policy that automatically disqualifies men who have had sex with men in the preceding five years from donating corneas is not justified by current evidence, research shows. Read more
AOA galvanises to fight controversial contact lens rule
Opposition in the US is gathering against a new ruling which allows patients to comparison shop for contact lenses with a copy of their prescription in hand. Read more
Melbourne optometrists eagerly await green light for routine care
A slight easing of restrictions that permit face-to-face care for chronic conditions has led to an uptick in appointments for Melbourne optometrists, with the sector’s peak industry body increasingly confident of a return to routine care from 19 October. Read more
Ophthalmology group commits to medical bill transparency
The Australian Society of Ophthalmologists (ASO) has joined other peak medical bodies in support of a new guide that aims to create greater medical fee transparency and prevent ‘bill shock’ for patients. Read more