A clinical trial is under way in Australia for a novel eye drop treatment for retinal vascular diseases that could replace the current approach involving serial intravitreal injections into the back of the eye. Read more
Anxiety over 2021 border battles prompts call for national solution
A South Australian ophthalmologist and Victorian optometrist are spearheading calls for state governments to embed better decision-making processes around healthcare worker travel exemptions, should COVID-19 outbreaks lead to more hard border closures in 2021. Read more
ProVision introduces new business resource for next generation of independent owners
ProVision has created a new resource that provides optometrists with the know-how to launch their own independent practice or lift the performance of an existing business. Read more
Eyecare professionals second in line for national vaccine rollout
Australian optometrists and ophthalmologists will receive a COVID-19 vaccine in the second wave of a five-phase national rollout strategy, according to the latest information from the Federal Government. Read more
Sector lays out $280 million public cataract surgery plan
Australia’s peak body for the eye health and vision sector has called on the Federal Government to spend $67 million over the next 12 months to deliver 66,000 more public cataract surgeries and tackle extended wait times. Read more
CooperVision and Essilor announce JV for acquisition of myopia spectacle lens
The parent companies of CooperVision and Essilor have announced a new joint venture to acquire a spectacle lens approved for myopia control in several countries. Read more
Aussie supplier gifts 1,500 frames to training college
Australian supplier Eyes Right Optical has donated 1,500 frames to the Australasian College of Optical Dispensing (ACOD), helping ensure the training provider can run workshops that simulate real world optical practice experience. Read more
Study reveals age optometrists are most comfortable fitting CLs in paediatric myopes
A new global myopia survey that involved Australian participants has revealed optometrists are comfortable with fitting children with contact lenses from 9-years-old while for parents the average age is 12. Read more
Regional eye surgeon saves teen’s sight after wire pierces eye
A Queensland ophthalmologist who saved a teen’s sight in one eye after small gauge wire lacerated his retina in a stockyard accident says the case highlights the importance of having specialists based in regional areas, particularly during the era of COVID-19. Read more
Vale Emeritus Professor Barry Cole
The optometric profession has lost one of its giants with the passing of Emeritus Professor Barry Cole. Read more