A survey of optometrists conducted by the Australian College of Optometry (ACO) has revealed that 55% are seeking to develop therapeutic skills, either at the current-practice standard, or at an advanced level, exploring topics currently outside Australian optometry endorsement.1 At the same time, Optometry Board Australia (OBA) is reviewing current scheduled medicines available for prescription by optometrists.

“There appears to be an accumulation of factors driving interest in therapeutic development, notably practitioners’ appetite to expand on existing therapeutic skills and sharpen their clinician offering, as well as a real need to support patients who struggle to access ophthalmology care,” explained Dr Tim Fricke, ACO Director of Research and Education.

“Feedback from clinicians who have completed additional therapeutic CPD (continued professional development) shows us that benefits are not limited to just therapeutic management. Exploration of therapeutic practice also deepens understanding of ocular conditions, enhancing clinical knowledge, problem solving, and strengthening optometric practice overall.”

BUILDING SKILLSET

To support this growing demand, ACO has developed three programs to build on optometrists’ skillset: a one-day CPD event, a six-week online short course, and a six-month certificate.

The one-day Therapeutic Refresher Day CPD event will take place at ACO’s Carlton HQ on Sunday 17 May. The new six-month Certificate in Advanced Ocular Therapeutics, commencing in June, will combine in-depth theory with a clinical placement to consolidate learnings into practice. Focused on the top end of therapeutic scope, it will provide evidence-based pharmacological and clinical knowledge, readying professionals to confidently prescribe oral medicines for a range of ocular conditions as the scope of optometry continues to evolve.

ACO’s Therapeutic Refresher for Optometrists will commence in July. This fully self-paced short course will be delivered by optometrists and ophthalmologists. Case-based and grounded in current best practice and emerging evidence, it will focus on real-world clinical decision making, therapeutic prescribing, and collaborative care. To support new clinician knowledge and strengthen referral pathways, a local clinical placement is included.

For experienced professionals seeking to gain therapeutic endorsement or overseas practitioners relocating to Australia, ACO’s Certificate in Ocular Therapeutic will return in April 2027.

Visit: aco.org.au.

Reference available at mivision.com.au.