Optometry Australia (OA) has completed the pilot phase for its Advanced Practice Recognition (APR) Program and is preparing to launch its application process for the course.
OA introduced the APR program in July last year as an initiative to support optometrists to achieve formal credentials for their advanced expertise in specific clinical areas, starting with glaucoma management.
At the time it said the program was a “win-win for optometrists, healthcare partners, and the community”.
It would play a “pivotal role in addressing gaps in advanced eyecare, improving access for patients, and streamlining co-management pathways with ophthalmologists and other professionals”.
The pilot brought together a dedicated cohort of optometrists, carefully recruited to represent a range of locations, career stages and practice types, to test and refine the APR framework.
“Their feedback and experiences have been invaluable, allowing us to fine-tune the program for its official launch, and we are very grateful for their support,” OA said in a statement.
“Incorporating insights from the pilot and working closely with the governance committee and other stakeholders to understand its outcomes, we are currently preparing to open applications for the first public intake round of the APR program.”
CEO Ms Skye Cappuccio said: “We recognised the incredible skills and qualifications of practitioners within the optometry workforce and saw a unique opportunity to support them in advanced ways.
“The APR program is not only about enhancing careers but also about creating tangible benefits for patients and strengthening our profession’s position within healthcare teams.”
Applications will launch in the coming months, with a cap of 20 participants.
Following this inaugural intake, the program will offer two application rounds each year (up to 20 participants per round), providing consistent opportunities for optometrists to engage in this professional growth pathway.
Graduates of the APR program will earn the title “Optometry Australia Credentialled Advanced Practitioner – Glaucoma,” along with a suite of benefits which include:
- Use of logo and title to convey their advanced expertise to peers, patients, and the broader community.
- Inclusion in a credentialled practitioners directory, facilitating referrals and collaborative opportunities.
- Access to a network of advanced practitioner peers for support, learning, and sharing best practices.
- Invitations to exclusive annual symposia to deepen clinical knowledge and foster professional connections.
- Recognition for CPD activities undertaken during the credentialling process.
The statement said that further information about the program and how to become credentialled would be released over the next few months. Those interested were encouraged to visit the OA website here to learn more.
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