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Tackling glaucoma at 100% Optical


Tackling glaucoma at 100% Optical

The vital role of community eye care professionals in tackling glaucoma and caring for patients is being highlighted at this year’s 100% Optical.


Glaucoma will be the focus of a main stage lecture by leading ophthalmologist and glaucoma expert Nishani Amerasinghe as well as by Specsavers’ clinical services director Giles Edmonds and director of professional advancement Paul Morris.

Ms Amerasinghe, a consultant ophthalmic surgeon at University Hospital Southampton, is past president of the UK and Éire Glaucoma Society (UKEGS). The society is a non-profit national scientific society and part of the charity Glaucoma UK.

Paul Morris

Titled ‘Achieving Better Outcomes in Glaucoma Patients with Cataracts,’ the lecture will delve into the growing burden of glaucoma in the UK. It takes place on the main stage at Excel London between 2.15pm and 3.15pm on Sunday 2 March.

‘The lecture will discuss the potential benefits of MIGs (minimally invasive glaucoma surgery), and the need for a tailored approach in the UK for those who are glaucoma suspects or sufferers but also develop cataract. Factors such as disease severity, glaucoma type, and overall eye health will be considered to achieve better long-term outcomes for patients,’ says Mr Morris.

‘We will also explore strategies to improve patient compliance, support caregivers, raise public awareness, and enhance the detection and management of glaucoma suspects.’

He adds: ‘Community eye care professionals are instrumental in educating patients about the importance of regular eye exams, particularly for those at higher risk.

‘We already play a crucial role in the early detection and management of glaucoma-related sight loss, and we can do even more to support our patients and the healthcare system as a whole. We are asking for that government act to ensure that glaucoma issues are tackled as a priority in plans to reshape services.’

Specsavers is continuing to work with Glaucoma UK as part of their shared goals to change the outlook for people with glaucoma. ‘We would encourage all attendees to visit the Glaucoma UK website and sign up for their mailing list to access valuable resources and support,’ says Mr Morris.

Through its awareness-raising work, Glaucoma UK aims to ensure that glaucoma does not go undetected, ultimately preserving vision and improving quality of life. The charity is dedicated to helping people live well and maintain their sight through equitable and timely access to effective clinical care and pastoral support.

The main stage lecture forms part of a broad programme of continuing professional development (CPD) sessions for optometrists and dispensing opticians supported by Specsavers. This includes sessions at the Specsavers stand, F24, across the duration of 100% Optical on 1, 2 and 3 March.

The programme will cover paediatric care, ocular nerve pathology, professionalism, caring for patients experiencing homelessness, retinal disorders commonly encountered in primary practice, independent prescribing (IP) and first steps in supervision with Scheme for Registration (SfR).

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