ABDO releases new white paper on paediatric vision care

ABDO releases new white paper on paediatric vision care

The Association of British Dispensing Opticians (ABDO) has released a new white paper, Advancing paediatric vision care: evidence-based insights and best practices for dispensing spectacles to children by Dr Alicia Thompson.

Children’s vision underpins educational attainment, social interaction and lifelong wellbeing. However, the provision of appropriate spectacles for children can be a challenge for eyecare practitioners where children are exposed to a vast array of frame choices that may be designed based on small-adult parameters, with limited adjustability. With the publication of its latest white paper, ABDO has taken a significant step to address these challenges, equipping the profession with a robust, research-driven resource that redefines paediatric dispensing as a specialist area of practice.

This paper is far more than a guide to frame fit or lens choice. It brings together anatomy, clinical optics, elements of psychology and inclusive practice design, all underpinned by evidence, to suggest how to give our youngest patients the best possible experience and visual outcome.

This white paper combines the latest research findings and evidence-based practices in spectacle dispensing to guide eyecare professionals in delivering optimal visual outcomes for paediatric patients and to assist frame producers and designers in improving frames for this market.

From understanding anatomical and psychological considerations, to implementing effective communication strategies with parents and caregivers, this resource suggests spectacle dispensing best practice to ensure prescription accuracy, wearer comfort and adherence to wear for successful visual outcomes. By adopting these insights, practitioners can enhance visual health, support learning and improve quality of life for children worldwide.

Dr Alicia Thompson, ABDO research director and author of the white paper, commented: “Children’s vision is foundational to learning, social development and long‑term wellbeing, and dispensing spectacles to children remains one of the most rewarding, complex, challenging, and yet, at times, underestimated areas of primary eyecare practice. I am hopeful this paper has taken a decisive step toward addressing this complexity in a comprehensive, evidence-based resource that highlights the importance of dispensing effectively to our youngest patients and showcases the extensive knowledge and skills of dispensing opticians.”

Alistair Bridge, ABDO chief executive, said, “Our new white paper explains clearly the complexity involved in dispensing spectacles to children and highlights the expertise which dispensing opticians bring to this crucial area of practice. As the professional body for dispensing opticians in the UK, we are proud to showcase the excellent patient care which our members provide and the evidence on which this is based.”

Alongside the white paper, ABDO has produced a parent and caregivers leaflet for members to share in practice, offering advice and guidance on caring for children’s vision.

ABDO has also recently launched a Level 7 Diploma in Paediatric Eyecare for GOC-registered practitioners who wish to develop further knowledge and skill in the areas covered by this paper. Find out more information here.

Read the full white paper and leaflet here.