Expanding scope of practice for optometrists

CPD ref: C-108302

Description

In this session, we will explore how to expand your scope of practice as an optometrist. With a practical focus and case examples we will investigate the eight areas discussed in The College of Optometrists’ expanding scope of practice guidance. In this way you can reflect on your current practice and consider how you might apply these principles to deliver a win-win for yourself and your patients.

Target audience

• Optometrist
• Specialty optometrist (AS/SP/IP).

Clinical practice

s.6 Recognise, and work within, your limits of competence

• Able to recognise when a patient presenting with blepharitis and marginal keratitis may need to be referred due to increased risk.

s.7 Conduct appropriate assessments, examinations, treatments and referrals

• Able to recognise features of severe dry eye that may benefit from treatment with a scleral contact lens.

Leadership and accountability

s.12 Ensure a safe environment for your patients

• Able to recognise times when special risk assessment and infection control policies may be required to deliver safe patient care.

Specialty CPD - AS/SP/IP optometrist

• Understands and recognises times when special risk assessment and infection control policies may be required to deliver safe patient care when treating patients as an IP optometrist.