Following the success of last year’s Paediatric Masterclass and Anterior Segment Workshop, the Australian College of Optometry (ACO) is bringing both events back on Sunday 14 September.
The ACO said that, this time, the events would be held on the same day as part of a double-bill program.
Both sessions sold out in 2024, and optometrists are encouraged to secure their place early.
It said the double-bill event offered a valuable CPD opportunity for optometrists, combining collaborative case-based learning with hands-on clinical skills.
Whether attending one or both sessions, optometrists will gain practical tools and insights to enhance patient care across paediatric and anterior segment eye health. Both sessions are accredited by Optometry Australia.
The morning will feature the Paediatric Masterclass, led by experienced eyecare professionals Mr Paul Croucher, Dr Anu Mathew and Dr Tim Fricke.
The ACO said this highly interactive program would focus on sharpening clinical approaches to paediatric eye care, with topics including early onset esotropia, recognising red flags in paediatric presentations, and applying evidence-based vision therapy techniques.
Through detailed case discussions and shared clinical insights, participants will strengthen decision-making skills and build confidence in managing a broad range of paediatric cases.
In fact, 100% of last year’s attendees found the content useful, and 100% would recommend the masterclass to a friend, the college said.
In the afternoon, the Anterior Segment Workshop offers a practical, hands-on learning experience with renowned optometrist Dr Blair Lonsberry from Pacific University, Oregon.
The session covers effective assessment, management, and follow-up of corneal and conjunctival foreign bodies.
A highlight of the program is the two-hour practical component using the non-animal-derived SimulEYE epithelial removal model, where participants refine techniques such as conjunctival swab collection, foreign body removal, and corneal epithelial debridement using a range of clinical instruments.
Last year, 100% of participants agreed the workshop provided clinically relevant skills and knowledge applicable to practice, and 85% found the foreign body removal task particularly helpful in developing those skills.
Registrations are now open – learn more and register for the Paediatric Masterclass at https://profession.aco.org.au/paediatric-masterclass-2025 or for the Anterior Segment Workshop at https://profession.aco.org.au/anterior-segment-workshop-2025.
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