dispensing optics

DISPENSINGOPTICSNEWS, INFORMATION andEDUC ATION for OPTICIANS

MARCH 2015

2

Association of British Dispensing Opticians

The ABDO Conference and Exhibition is thepremiere event for dispensing opticians.

The conference, which has successfully grownyear-on-year since 2008, is also hailed as oneof the most convivial and rewardingnetworking events in the UK optical calendar.

The 2015 ABDO Conference and Exhibitionwill be held at Manchester Central - an awardwinning venue located in the heart of citycentre Manchester.

Further details will be released and onlinebooking available in due course.

2015 ABDO Conference and Exhibition SAVE THE DATES

EVERYTHING A CONFERENCE SHOULD BE

ABDO CONFERENCEAND EXHIBITION

Sunday 20 and Monday 21September 2015Manchester Central

PRE-CONFERENCE GOLFTOURNAMENT

Saturday 19 September 2015

PRE-CONFERENCEWELCOME PARTY

Saturday 19 September 2015Wolfson Reading Room, Manchester Central Library

ABDO GALA DINNER

Sunday 20 September 2015The Midland Hotel, Manchester

• A unique event in the 2015optical calendar

• Interactive CET events tocover all GOC corecompetencies

• AOP education stream

• BCLA daySunday 20 September

• FREE exhibition entry to allmembers of the opticalprofession

• All optical professionalsand students are welcometo attend

3Dispensing Optics MARCH 2015

FRONT COVER

Simon Gerrans finishes Stage5 of the Tour Down Under,courtesy of Bollé.

Photo credit Watson/Watson.

Contents

Dispensing Optics MARCH 2015

12.

34.

8.14.

20.

34. PreviewEyes down for Optrafair

36. Report100% Optical “here to stay”

39. CharityVAO celebrates

Regulars

5. DO Dispatches

6. Black Artsby ABDO president, Peter Black

8. News

40. JottingsTaking centre stage in shared care by Max Halford

42. Classifieds

Features

18. ObituaryRev. Michael Richard Moore Jaggs 1938-2015

20. Sports eyewear in the spotlightBuilt to perform

24. Continuing Education & TrainingPrescription lenses for sports by Tanya Storey

29. CET AnswersMeasuring that unknown RGP in practice by Keith Cavaye

30. Sports visionSports eyewear and eyecare by Antonia Chitty

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The Norville Group, Magdala Road, Gloucester GL1 4DGTel: 01452 510321 • Fax: 01452 510331 • Email: [email protected]


FAREWELL TO A PIONEER AND A GENTLEMAN

On Thursday 12 February, I was privileged

to have been able to attend the funeral

service of the Reverend Michael Jaggs –

and what a service it was.

Michael was well known to many for his innovative, enthusiastic

and pioneering approach to contact lenses in a career which

spanned more than 50 years as a member of this Association.

A tribute to Michael, written by Rosemary Bailey, can be read

in this month’s issue on page 18. The funeral service attracted

more than 250 people, who reflected Michael’s wide circle of

family and friends, his interests and his professional life as well

as his ministry as a Priest in the Church of England. His was a

truly full and fulfilling life.

On my drive home after the service, I was able to reflect on a

number of conversations we had over the years, most of which

dealt with matters, which were coming up or people who

needed some help or support. Michael embodied all that was

good and caring in this profession and he was a kind and

compassionate man. He will certainly be missed by his many

friends and also all those whose life he touched. His contribution

to the life of this Association will be long remembered.

SPORTS IN FOCUS

The general theme of this month’s issue is sports, reflected in

our CET article, ‘Prescription lenses for sports’ by Tanya Storey

(pages 24-28), Antonia Chitty’s business feature on ‘Sports

eyewear and eyecare’ (pages 30-33) and in our product

spotlight, showcasing the latest industry innovations in the

field (pages 20-22).

This is certainly a fascinating area, so we hope you find these

insights useful and relevant to you in everyday practice. As

always, please send your news, views and letters in to the

team and we’ll do our best to feature them in future issues.

Sir Anthony GarrettABDO general secretary

DO Dispatches

DISPENSING OPTICSThe Professional Journal of the Associationof British Dispensing Opticians

VOLUME 30 NO 3

EDITORIAL STAFFEditor Sir Anthony Garrett CBE HonFBDOAssistant Editor Jane BurnandManaging Editor Nicky Collinson BA (Hons)Email [email protected] and Production Rosslyn Argent BA (Hons)Email [email protected]. Manager Deanne GrayEmail [email protected]

EDITORIAL/ADVERTISINGTelephone 0781 2734717Email [email protected] www.abdo.org.uk

SUBSCRIPTIONSUK £140Overseas £150, including postageApply to Tom VetiAssociation of British Dispensing OpticiansGodmersham Park, Godmersham, Kent CT4 7DT

Telephone 01227 733922Email [email protected] www.abdo.org.uk

ABDO CETCET Coordinator Paula Stevens MA ODE BSc(Hons)

MCOptom FBDO CL (Hons)AD SMC(Tech)

ABDO CET, 5 Kingsford Business Centre, Layer Road,Kingsford, Colchester CO2 0HT

Telephone 01206 734155Email [email protected] email [email protected]

CONTINUING EDUCATION REVIEW PANELJoanne Abbott BSc(Hons) FBDO SMC(Tech)

Keith Cavaye FBDO (Hons) CL FBCLA

Andrew Cripps FBDO (Hons) PG Cert HE FHEA

Kim Devlin FBDO (Hons) CL

Stephen Freeman BSc(Hons) MCOptom FBDO (Hons) Cert Ed

Abilene Macdonald Grute FBDO (Hons) SLD (Hons) LVA Dip Dist Ed Cert EdRichard Harsant FBDO (Hons) CL (Hons) LVA

Andrew Keirl BOptom (Hons) MCOptom FBDO

Angela McNamee BSc(Hons) MCOptom FBDO (Hons) CL FBCLA Cert Ed

Linda Rapley BSc FCOptom

JOURNAL ADVISORY COMMITTEERichard Crook FBDOKim Devlin FBDO (Hons) CL

Kevin Gutsell FBDO (Hons) SLD

Ros Kirk FBDOAngela McNamee BSc(Hons) MCOptom FBDO (Hons) CL FBCLA Cert Ed

DISPENSING OPTICS IS PUBLISHED BYABDO, 199 Gloucester Terrace, London W2 6LDDISPENSING OPTICS IS PRINTED BYLavenham Press, Lavenham, Suffolk CO10 9RN

© ABDO: No part of this publication may be reproduced, storedin a retrieval system, or transmitted in any form or by any meanswhatever without the written prior permission of the publishers

Dispensing Optics welcomes contributions for possibleeditorial publication. However, contributors warrant to thepublishers that they own all rights to illustrations, artwork orphotographs submitted and also to copy which is factuallyaccurate and does not infringe any other party’s rights

ISSN 0954 3201

AVERAGE CIRCULATION: 9,025 Jan-Dec 2014ABDO Board certification

6 Dispensing Optics MARCH 2015

Afestival of frames, fashionand the latest new productsfrom across the sector, 7-9February saw 100% Opticalcome and go. Much debate

has been had in optical political circles asto whether there are too many tradeexhibitions and CET events these days,and this is a conundrum that will only bedecided in the end by market forces. Certainly 100% Optical seemed to be a

success, with a large number of exhibitors,and on Sunday at least it appeared to bevery well attended. The ExCel exhibitioncentre is also an excellent modern venuewith decent accommodation nearby thatwas surprisingly inexpensive at less thanhalf what you expect to pay in centralLondon, and budget accommodation waseven cheaper. It represented a great opportunity to

view and purchase a wide range of new,unusual and different frames to helpdifferentiate your practice from its localcompetition, and was also a greatopportunity for registrants to pick up thosevital interactive CET points.From my point of view, I don’t believe

there was enough CET on offer. Certainlythe skills workshops that ABDO providedwere fully booked within hours of beingadvertised online. We put on an additionalsix skills workshops over the weekend (asnobody was dropping in to our scheduleddrop-in sessions!) and were able to fill themwithin minutes from the steady stream ofpeople asking if there were places availableon the fully booked sessions.There are some who say CET stops

people viewing the exhibition and preventsdelegates placing orders with suppliers, andI found myself debating this with showorganisers in the hotel bar one evening.Since then, I have spoken to many memberswho didn’t attend the exhibition becausethey were unable to book on any suitableCET in advance as it was fully booked. Foodfor thought for Optrafair? ABDO will also have a CET presence at

the UK’s largest trade show Optrafair inBirmingham from 18-20 April (see previewon pages 34-35). The message from 100%Optical is that if you need CET points, bookearly to avoid disappointment and clickthrough the link as soon as you receive it toregister your attendance and book CET. Andkeep an eye out for our latest Eye TV Newslaunch in conjunction with ITN, promotingdispensing opticians to the wider healthcarecommunity, politicians and this time to thegeneral public.

DON’T FORGET THE BCLAThe final weekend in May will see the BCLAconference visit my home city of Liverpool.Although I’m not a contact lens optician,I’ve always found the BCLA an excellentway of keeping up-to-date with all thingscontact lens related and, for contact lenspractitioners, I believe it is the best contactlens educational event anywhere in theworld and well worth the trip.Also well worth the trip is Liverpool

itself. Although Liverpool remains Britain’smost deprived city, and the average visitorhas low expectations, it has many world-class tourist attractions. If you only have anhour or two to spare then the one youreally should visit, even though it will makeyou cry, is the world’s only Museum ofSlavery located at the Albert Dock.

PREFER A ONE-STOP CET SHOP?The ABDO conference, from 20-21 Septemberin Manchester, is the only national CET eventthat covers every single CET competencyfor dispensing opticians and contact lensopticians. Providing you book early, it shouldbe possible to get all your CET requirementsin one go, and may well be the lastopportunity of the year to get interactivepoints in some of the more difficult toobtain competencies. This year promises to be our biggest

and best conference yet with five tracks ofCET across Sunday and Monday includingspecial tracks run by the AOP and BCLA.This in conjunction with exhibition only

attendance being free should increasedelegate numbers to record levels.

DON’T LEAVE IT TOO LATEI don’t want to worry our membersunnecessarily, but I am very fearful that inalmost exactly a year’s time, hundreds ofthem are going to find themselves receivingan invitation to 41 Harley Street to answerthe concerns our regulator will have abouttheir fitness to practise.If you have accepted CET points

recently, you will know that the peeraverage for the number of points achievedby mid-February was 18 points, and yet weare now over two-thirds of the way throughthe CET cycle. In other words, over the next10 months the industry must provide asmuch CET to registrants as it has providedin the previous two years.Add to this the complication that at this

stage of the game the CET needs to be ofthe right type with the right competenciescovered, 18 interactive points by the end ofthree years, and for CLOs and optoms thismust include one peer discussion session,you can see registrants who leave it toolate are likely to have nowhere to go.Fortunately ABDO is ahead of the game

in providing increased levels of CET thisyear through both area meetings, whichhave been centrally coordinated for the firsttime, and through our national conferenceabove. If you don’t wish to be invited toHarley Street, and you are short on yourinteractive points, now is not the time toleave it to the last minute as even with theextra provision almost all events are sellingout as soon as they are advertised andthere isn’t really any slack in the systemwith only just enough points on offer to goround all who need them – even when youtake into account the national conferencesand roadshows offered by the large retailersand suppliers.

SPEAKING OF THE GOC…At 100% Optical I attended the WorshipfulCompany of Spectacle Makers Moot and

100%? Not quite…

PETER BLACKOur monthly column from the ABDO president

BLACK

ARTS


listened to the panel and audience debateoptical issues. One question centred onwhat the panel thought the future of opticswould look like and GOC chair, GarethHadley, gave an interesting and somewhatunexpected response.

He felt that undergraduate educationneeded to be revamped to reflect likelyfuture trends in optical practice and, inparticular, that therapeutics andindependent prescribing should be includedin all optometry degrees going forward inthe future. He also asserted that it is likelythat optics will follow suit with dentistryand pharmacy and register all support staffwho engage in any delegated clinical role,such as pre-screening, teaching contact lenspatients, and complex and regulatedophthalmic dispensing.

Whilst registration is likely to beresisted by employers on grounds of costsince it is a recurring and never ending fee(as we DOs know all too well), the idea ofsetting standards for optical dispensingassistants and optometric clinical assistantsis an appealing one. Here we could take aleaf out of pharmacy’s book and qualify all

staff engaged in dispensing at level 2 beforethey are let loose on real people withoutanything but the closest supervision.

BEWARE THE AUDITORS ARE COMINGThe days of cutting corners in optics, afterruling the roost for a quarter of a centurysince our noble profession was partiallyderegulated are now nearly at an end. Fornow, as health service IT systems link up,and legions of jobsworth’s line up behindthe plethora of statistics now being produced,you can expect to get a knock on the doorsometime soon. Be afraid, be very afraid…

Contract compliance and post-paymentverification visits have all of a suddenstarted to become a little more sinister. The standard note of a patient’s reason forsight test visit (routine, no problems, orresponse to reminder) is reportedly beingused as a stick to beat optometrists withwhen they issue a GOS3 Voucher for glassesor contact lenses.

The argument is that the patient washaving no problems, therefore they did notneed new glasses and, therefore, a vouchershould not have been issued. The best

defence to this is for optometrists to alwaysrecord the VA with the current glasses aswell as the VA with the new prescription sothat an improvement is clearly documented.If there is no improvement in VA or visualcomfort then a voucher should only beissued for reasons of fair wear and tear.

Dispensing opticians who arecontractors in their own right as businessowners/partners, or indeed as managersrepresenting a corporate contractor, couldfind themselves in the dock for not properlychecking on the work of their optometristcolleagues, as in theory could anydispensing optician who finds anoptometrist’s record-keeping to beinadequate and does nothing about it.

So if you work with an optom who does‘routine, no problems’ sight tests, and thenprescribes glasses without recording thevisual acuity with the old prescription todemonstrate the improvement, it is time to have a quiet word. While you are aboutit, ask them if they can also put the BVD on prescriptions over 5.00D as the lawrequires. And remember: be careful out there.

BCLA PROMISES 2015 CONFERENCE “WILL DELIVER”As it launches its three-day clinical conference programme with a new ‘Come together’ themed campaign, the British Contact LensAssociation (BCLA) is promising that its 2015 event, at the ACC Liverpool from 29-31 May, will ‘deliver what it says on the tin’.

BCLA CEO Cheryl Donnelly explained: “This year we need to truly deliver a conferencededicated to contact lenses and the anterior eye that enhances the clinical skills of practitioners,whilst giving extra confidence to those who need it and showcasing the latest research, all whilstenabling networking and gaining insights and learning about the latest industry innovations.

“We have a responsibility to deliver hands-on sessions, research, posters and educationcourses,” continued Cheryl. ”There are 15 free CET workshops – more than we’ve ever had before –running in a triple track format over two days offering a variety of subject areas from polishingup slit lamp skills, binocular vision and contact lenses to differential diagnosis of cornealdystrophies to name but a few.

“Have you tried ortho-K before? Well, if not, come to our live fitting event on the podiumwith a follow-up appointment the next day. Myopia management; can you afford not tounderstand the current thinking from global researchers and clinicians who practise this field, tojudge how you’ll manage this in your own practice? There is a whole day dedicated to thesubject, and I believe this line-up of speakers and the debate that will follow has not been done

before. Specialist contact lenses also feature this year in the workshops but, importantly, we have a whole day dedicated to this skill,” Cheryl added.

The programme is made up of bite-sized sessions, which the BCLA promises will all feature elements of education, clinical skills andthe latest research. “This new strategy will enable delegates to listen and understand the research and then see this translate to clinicalpractice tips and education,” explained Cheryl. “This new model will apply to sessions such as presbyopia, ocular surface and dry eye,comfort, lens care and case contamination to name but a few.”

The BCLA is also welcoming back ‘The great debate’, which will feature silicone hydrogels vs. hydrogels. A business session will takecentre stage, led by Ross Grant, bringing together successful practitioners as well as a new business tool initiative from Euromcontact.

Download the programme, find out about speakers and exhibitors, and book your place by the early bird deadline of 31 March atwww.bcla.org.uk

BCLA launches new conference campaign

@ Letters HAVE YOUR SAYEmail [email protected] or write toDispensing Optics, PO Box 233, Crowborough TN27 3AB

Follow us on Twitter@ABDOCollege and@MembershipABDO

FIVE UV LENS COATING OPTIONSShamir has introduced five new UV lens coatings based on its Shamir Glacier technology.

Shamir Glacier Plus UV is scratch-resistant, water and oil resistant; its anti-staticproperties repel dust while its anti-reflective properties eliminate distracting glare. Italso blocks both incoming and rear surface reflected rays.

Shamir Glacier Achromatic UV includes all the properties of Shamir Glacier Plus UV,with a unique difference – it’s clear. Shamir Glacier Blue-Shield UV provides double-sidedUV protection, while deflecting fives time more blue light than any existing conventionallens coating, according to Shamir.

Shamir Glacier Sun UV for sunglass lenses offers all the properties of the Glacier line,whilst ensuring the chosen lens tint remains unchanged and protected from fading. Finally,Shamir Glacier Anti-Fog consists of different coatings on the front and rear surfaces of thelens, specially for wraparound sports frames. The rear surface layer has a unique anti-fogfeature that prevents fogging from heat trapped behind the lens during strenuous activity.


FRAMES WITH THE X FACTORContinental Eyewear debuted 10 new X-eyes frames at 100% Optical last month.

“We were delighted to showcase in ourbusy stand our superb new designs, whichstay faithful to the X-eyes ethos of beingdifferent but very wearable,” said NealGrimason, Continental’s sales andmarketing director. “Metals, plastics andcombinations of both feature in the latestmodels, together with vibrant colourswhich include lime greens and oranges.”

The company also showcased its 2015Jaeger sunglass collection with six newreleases in the ophthalmic range and a newframe display unit available for eithersunglasses or ophthalmic frames togetherwith other POS material.

WCSM CEO TO RETIRELieutenant Colonel John Salmon OBE is retiring in June after 17 years as CEO and clerk to the Worshipful Company of SpectacleMakers (WCSM).

WCSM Master, Dr Christine Tomkins, said: “John has ably steered the Spectacle Makers through major transitions in its offering forthe training and education of people working in optics, through significant governance changes and the development of its charity. Heis the Company’s 23rd recorded clerk in its nearly 400-year history. John leaves the clerkship of the Company with its best wishes for along and happy retirement.”

NEWS

Launching the manifesto at Westminster

MPS TO BE LOBBIEDAHEAD OF GENERALELECTIONThe UK Vision Strategy is calling onpoliticians standing in the upcominggeneral election to prioritise eyecareservices, improve support for people whohave lost their sight, and to promote asociety that includes blind and partiallysighted people.

The UK Vision Strategy 2015 GeneralElection Manifesto sets out six interventionsthat participating organisations believewill save sight and deliver a better qualityof life for people living with sight loss:more people to have access to a regularsight test, and better community eyecareprovision; timely access to high qualityspecialist care, including cataract surgeryand NICE-approved treatments for themain eye conditions; support in the eyeclinic for people diagnosed with a sight-threatening condition; rapid access torehabilitation, habilitation and low visionservices; support with the extra financialcosts of sight loss; and improved access totransport and the built environment.

Read the UK Vision Strategy lobbying guide and Manifesto, and find out how to support the campaign, atwww.ukvisionstrategy.org.uk A new model from the X-eyes collection

HANDY OTC RELIEF FOR PATIENTS Available in single use vials or as a pumpaction 10ml bottle, new Bausch + LombBiotrue Rewetting Drops, and Vidisansingle dose units, are both said toprovide relief for a variety of symptomsof environmentally caused dry eyesymptoms, or irritated eyes.

“Vidisan is designed to provide gentlesoothing relief for eyes of all ages that areirritated by wind, dust, pollution,swimming and pollen,” said Valerie Steiner,Bausch + Lomb OTC marketing manager.“The extract of euphrasia gently calmsirritation and, in hand with this, the

solution contains povidone, a polymerwhich enables a protective film to form onthe eye’s surface.”

Biotrue Rewetting Drops is the formulapromoted for contact lens wearers. “Thiscan provide instant relief and naturalhydration for dry and tired eyes, especiallycaused by prolonged computer use, airconditioning and flying,” explained Valerie.“Based on hyaluronic acid, which is foundnaturally in the eye and tear film, itprovides comfort for long periods.”

chooseyourATTITUDE

www.shamirlens.co.uk

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Two new prescription sunwear lenses, one for sports and another for fashion. Designed to fit a wide range of frames, flat or wraparound, they are suitable for every type of sport and an active modern lifestyle. Available for Progressive and Single Vision.

shamir atTitude iiisport Fashion

FUNDRAISING TARGET EXCEEDEDA six-year-old eye cancer survivor from Derbyshire was special guest as Vision Express

celebrated the fundraising efforts of its team and customers, who helped raise

£160,000 during the past 12 months for the Childhood Eye Cancer Trust (CHECT).

Katie Boyce, from Swadlincote, represented CHECT alongside her mum Jamie and

CHECT’s CEO Joy Felgate, as Vision Express CEO Jonathan Lawson announced the annual

fundraising total at the optical retailer’s new Nottingham HQ.

The donation of £160,000 topped the amount raised in the previous year by £55,000

and was presented to mark International Childhood Cancer Awareness Day, on 3 February.

BATTING FOR THE SAME TEAMEdmonds & Slatter Opticians is once again to be official Optical Partner to Leicestershire

County Cricket Club (LCCC) for the 2015season.

The company began its association withthe club during the 2012 season andrecently tested the squad at its branch inBlaby. All players receive the practice’sadvanced eye examination, which includesthe Optomap retinal screening test.

Tim Cole, partner at Edmonds andSlatter, said: “We are very pleased to offerour professional skills and exceptionalservices for the benefit of the club. I ammost proud to be able to say that Edmonds

and Slatter are the Optical Partner of Leicestershire County Cricket Club.”

NEW BSI FOR SUNGLASSESPlano sunglasses and clip-ons are subject to a new BSI standard from 1 March – in a move to globalise regulations the Federationof Manufacturing Opticians (FMO) has suggested.

BS EN ISO 12312-1 was introduced last year with the understanding that the previous standard EN 1836 could run concurrently foranother 12 months, with this transition period expiring at the end of February.

“This is really a review and amalgamation of current international standards, highlighting the requirements for sunglass construction,materials used, robustness and impact resistance, as well as plano lens transmittance characteristics, and refractive power,” explained EricBoinard, the FMO Standards Panel expert on sunglasses.

“One of the most significant changes is the degree of information to be supplied with the sunglasses,” continued Bionard, who is alsoGlobal R&D Group Leader for Polaroid Eyewear. “This includes not only the name of the manufacturer, but also its address as well as a seriesof warnings when deemed appropriate.”

Eye cancer survivor, Katie Boyce

Collaboration on AMD mission

CALLS TO ACTIONON AMDThe AMD Alliance International led anevent at the House of Commons recentlythat addressed the issues the NHS isfacing with diagnosing, treating andmanaging the growing number of peopleaffected by age-related maculardegeneration (AMD).

The event was hosted by Sir DavidAmess, MP for Southend West, andsponsored by Oraya Therapeutics. As aresult of the day’s discussions, the groupsigned three key calls to action: work toincrease government funding to enable agreater number of eye clinics to meet therecommended waiting times for initialtreatment of wet AMD patients by January2017; enable early diagnosis of serious eyeconditions by placing eye health screeningat the heart of the primary care agenda,from school age through to later life; andwork to establish a national eye healthregistry to record all data from bothprimary and secondary care.

The AMD Alliance also unveiled itsGlobal Atlas, which identifies the costs andburden of macular degeneration across theworld, as well as highlights actions thatcan be taken to bring about cost-effectiverelief and treatments.

Our photograph shows (from left)Stephen Pound MP, Sir David Amess MP,Russell Brown MP and Lord Low signing theCalls to Action.

Optical assistant, Sue Acosta, with JamesSykes and Ned Eckersley of LCCC


NEWS

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EYEWEAR FASHION THAT FITSStepper UK Limited11 Tannery RoadTonbridgeKentTN9 1RF01732 375975

EYEWEAR TREAT FOR1,000TH CUSTOMERIndependent opticians, Anne Gill Eyecarein North End, Portsmouth, celebratedwelcoming its 1,000th customer recentlyon its second anniversary.

To mark the occasion, localbusinesswoman Kerrie Morrison wasoffered a complimentary pair of glassesfrom Anne’s current range. A second causefor celebration was the announcementthat the practice had been shortlisted forboth Retailer of the Year and Innovation ofthe Year for the Portsmouth News BusinessExcellence Awards 2015.

Anne said: “To have reached such amilestone on our second anniversary isreally thrilling. People often say they needa boost at this time of year, and we havecertainly had an exciting start to 2015.”

DOS ERASED FROM GOC REGISTERSThe General Optical Council (GOC) haserased Staffordshire-based dispensingoptician, Victoria Tyers, from itsregisters, along with Essex-baseddispensing optician, Brian Davies.

A GOC Fitness to Practise (FTP)committee found Tyers’ FTP impaired byvirtue of a conviction for stealing cash tothe value of £3,967 from her employer,Specsavers in Uttoxeter, said the GOC in astatement.

A GOC FTP committee found Davies’FTP impaired by virtue of convictionswhich led to his imprisonment in July2014. “Given the serious nature and extentof the registrant’s offending, thecommittee formed the view that theregistrant’s conduct was fundamentallyincompatible with him continuing to beregistered as a dispensing optician,” theGOC stated.

Tyers and Davies, neither of whom areABDO members, are now unable topractise in the UK as dispensing opticians.Davies had been suspended under aninterim order since 1 July 2013. At the timeof going to press, both had until 25February to appeal their erasure.

Anne Gill (right) with Kerrie Morrison New campaign featuring Neymar Jr

FOOTBALLER FRONTSOPTICAL CAMPAIGNFashion and lifestyle brand Police haslaunched its new optical collection withglobal brand ambassador, Brazilianfootballer Neymar Jr, modelling for therenowned photographer Rankin.

Neymar Jr features in the newlyreleased campaign with the famousMexican model, Daniela De Jesus. For 2015,Police presents a collection of optical stylesthat combine classic silhouettes with amodern edge. Minimalism, a feather lightweight and design are the three key ideas ofthe new Police collection in which volumesare reduced and materials, such as PEI resin,are made increasingly comfortable.


NEWS

New Blitz Kids model

PRODUCT PUBLICATIONS NOW OUTView Norville’s latest collection of children’s eyewear in its 2015 Blitz Kidz catalogue.

The collection of 26 frames, for children aged from six months to 12 years, includesnine new models such as BK026, a silver pin detail wayfarer and BK031, and oval-shapedmetal frame available in pink (pictured) and green. Every frame is also supplied with anovelty shoe-shaped case.

Also now out is Norville’s 12-page Polarising Lenses publication explaining thetechnical details behind NuPolar and Drivewear polarising lenses, produced in conjunctionwith Younger Optics USA.

COMMERCIALAGREEMENT FORMYOPIA LENSESContamac and Australia’s Brien HoldenVision Institute (BHVI) have entered intoa multi-year license, which enablesContamac to commercialise anddistribute customised silicone hydrogeland GP contact lens products based onutilising BHVI Background IntellectualProperty on myopia control.

Martin Dalsing, Contamac’s director ofglobal strategy and business development,said: “Making available these specialisedcustom lens parameters and designs tothe eyecare professional through ourlaboratory network will be crucial fortoday’s modern specialty contact lenspractice.”

Under the license, Contamac will beginto commercialise specialised contactlenses designed to reduce the rate ofmyopia progression in children by sub-licensing the Contamac designs to keystrategic partners within its existingcustomer base throughout the world,commencing in May 2015.

TO INFINITY AND BEYOND…CooperVision has extended the fitting powers of its Biofinity multifocal monthly lensto accommodate even more patients.

The minus powers of the lens have been expanded in 0.50D steps to -10.00D fromthe original -8.00D. The new powers join the existing parameter range to cover from+6.00D to -10.00D, with four Add powers, in both D and N lens designs.

Combining key elements from Biofinity’s third-generation material with CooperVision’sBalanced Progressive Technology, the design contains multiple zones of vision correctionin both lenses, allowing for an individualised fitting for each wearer and eye.

*Twenty four subjects participated in a randomised, double masked, contralateral eye study to evaluate water loss of Biotrue ONEday, Acuvue Moist and 1 Day Acuvue Trueeye. After 4 , 8, 12 and 16 hours of wear, lenses were removed and immediately weighted (wet weight). The lenses were then completely dried and re weighted (dry weight). The relative percentage water loss was then calculated for each lens from the wet and dry weight.

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NEW BRAND MANAGERMenrad Optics has appointed Tyron Dawkins as its new Revo brand manager. Tyron has joined Menrad from Oakley UK where heachieved record-breaking sales and nine company awards in his eight-year career as an area sales manager.

Tyron said: “I’m delighted to be a part of the Menrad team and am hugely excited about the UK and Ireland re-launch of the Revobrand. I’ve had a close affinity with Revo for many years as a fan and dispensing manager.”

NEWS

Free fun and education offer for CLO studentsGOGGLE SYSTEM TORELIEVE DRY EYEScope Ophthalmics has introducedsomething new for dry eye disease (DED)management in the form of Tranquileyes.

Using specially designed goggles, warmwater and reusable gel pack technology,the treatment enables patients to create amoist-heat compress as an alternative todry heat products.

Tom Freyne, commercial director atScope Ophthalmics, said: “Tranquileyes willprovide eyecare practitioners with a moresophisticated way to help people affectedin the UK to manage their dry eye or MGD.This is a growing market as our populationages, so it’s important to be able to offer agood range of choice in terms of safe andeffective innovations.”

Therapy for soothing dry eye symptoms

SOFTWARE MODULE FOR CLPS Volk Optical has launched its Volk EyeCheck for contact lens practitioners (CLPs).An addition to the current Volk EyeCheck device, which provides ocularmeasurements, the Volk Eye CheckContact Lens Module is a new softwareapplication focused on assisting the CLPto achieve a quicker fitting process andto reduce drop-out rates.

By automatically providing objectiveand accurate measurements of key eye

parameters such as HVID, pupils and lids, the module is designed to help practitionersquickly identify patients who may require non-standard optics in their lenses, and to assistin the fitting of progressive, RGP and scleral lenses.

“We believe that this new and unique device will add value to the contact lenspractitioner and manufacturer by saving time and money, reducing trial and error, andultimately achieving lower drop-out rates,” said Pete Mastores, president of Volk Optical.The UK distributor is Birmingham Optical.

New Volk Eye Check Contact Lens Module

PENNINE BAGSBEAUTY BRAND Pennine Optical has been appointed asthe exclusive UK and Ireland distributerfor the new Revlon Eyewear collection.

“The collectionhas been developedusing the latestcolours, styles andtechnology availableto bring to womenthe ultimate beautyaccessory,” said thecompany.

The initialcollection consistsof feminine,fashionable designseach available in

assorted colours targeting the more maturespectacle wearer, and so are ideal forprogressive prescription lenses.

© 2014 Revlon

The REVLON® trademark is used under licence from Revlon

New RevlonEyewear available

FREE BCLA PLACES FORSTUDENT CLOS Trainee contact lens opticians (CLOs) intheir first or second year of study, whoare members of the British Contact LensAssociation (BCLA), are being invited toapply for one of 50 free delegate places at this year’s BCLA conference andexhibition, being held at the ACC Liverpoolfrom 29-31 May.

“This is a fantastic opportunity for ourup and coming CLO members to attendthe world’s leading contact lens meeting,get up close and personal with globalexperts, hear some amazing presentationsand be inspired for their future careers,”said BCLA CEO, Cheryl Donnelly.

“Our welcome party in the exhibition

hall on the Friday evening will be theperfect place to kick back and have a first-look at all the amazing products you’ll oneday be using in practice. BCLA studentmembership is free so if you’re not alreadya member, join up quickly so you can grabone of those 50 free places. And don'tforget there’s always heaps of fun andfreebies in the BCLA exhibition for ourdelegates and visitors,” Cheryl added.

Successful applicants can attend forjust a day, or on all three days, courtesy of the BCLA, although travel andaccommodation expenses are not included.To apply for a free place, contact the BCLA on 020 7580 6661 or [email protected]. View this year’s conferenceprogramme at www.bcla.org.uk or on theBCLA mobile app.

EXPLOIT 100% OF YOUR CUSTOMERS VISION POTENTIAL WITH DNEye®.The DNEye® Scanner measurement device is the best tool for high-precision measurements of lower and higher order aberrations of the eye, for near and far vision, as well as the brightness-dependent changes of the pupils, allowing 100% exploitation of personal vision potential.

www.rodenstock.co.uk Contact Rodenstock on 01474 325555 for more details.


TRANSITIONS LENSES RETURN TO ITV Transitions Optical is continuing with its TV advertising campaign this year,sponsoring ITV travel documentaries such as More Tales From Northumberland withRobson Green.

The sponsoring screen segment, shown at the opening and closing of the programmeand at the break, features a dimmer switch, which adjusts light depending on theconditions the wearer is experiencing, thereby explaining the product’s benefits. Intesting with consumers, the sponsoring was shown to significantly boost Transitions’brand image and intent to purchase.

“This is an opportunity for opticians and it will greatly facilitate theirrecommendation to a wider audience of spectacle wearers,” said the company. “When itcomes to prescription lenses, professional recommendation is crucial and more than 97per cent of patients are following advice given in practices.”

CALLING FUTURE PRACTICE OWNERSEssilor and the Association of Optometrists (AOP) are holding two events this monthaimed at anyone thinking about becoming an independent practice owner.

The evening events, to be held in Manchester and London on 18 and 26 March (6-8.30pm) respectively, will be hosted by Essilor’s professional relations team and the AOP,supported by independent practice owner and contact lens optician, David Samuel. Theywill include a buffet supper and are free to attend.

“David started four practices from scratch, merged two practices into one, acquiredan existing practice and completed a management buy-in,” said Andy Hepworth, Essilorprofessional relations manager. “He therefore has a great practical understanding of whatis involved in all aspects of ownership.”

The evening will comprise both information and a Q&A session, and the venues arethe Radisson Blu Edwardian in Manchester and Kingsway Hall in London WC2. Register athttp://www.essilorpro.co.uk/pages/futureownerevent.aspx or email [email protected] for more details.

STAKEHOLDERS DISCUSSILLEGAL SALESThe General Optical Council (GOC) heldits first stakeholder steering groupmeeting last month as part of its newillegal practice strategy.

The group was formed late last year todevelop a code of practice for online contactlens suppliers and advise on options forimplementation. The GOC intends to launcha consultation on a draft code of practicein June 2015 and to implement the codeby the end of the year.

Chaired by Dr Rob Hogan, the groupwill also work to raise awareness amongthe public of how to buy and wear contactlenses safely, such as the need to followaftercare advice and have regular check-ups. The stakeholder group is comprised of16 members from across the optical sector,including representatives from variousprofessional bodies, an online contact lenssupplier and several consumerrepresentatives.

Dr Hogan said: “It was extremelypleasing to welcome a group with such awide variety of experience and expertiseand a shared commitment to highlightingthe need for consumers to have regular eyeexaminations and follow aftercare adviceregardless of whether they buy theircontact lenses online or in-store.”

TV campaign returns

Imran Hakim

POWER TO THE PEOPLEThe Hakim Group, a rapidly growingportfolio of opticians, has been awardedthe Investors in People Gold standard, anaccolade only given to the top seven percent of accredited organisations acrossthe UK.

Hakim Group CEO, Imran Hakim, said:“It has always been a core belief of minethat success lies within the individual’smind and we have strived to make surethis belief permeates all aspects of thebusiness from the top down. We have afantastic group of people throughout ourbusiness and they are at the heart of ourcontinued success.”

CONSUMER CAMPAIGN KICKS OFFJohnson & Johnson Vision Care launches a new consumer facing advertising campaignin the UK and Ireland this month, to support the launch of 1-Day Acuvue Define.

The campaign includes new TV and online advertising plus a TV sponsorshippartnership with a major entertainment channel. In addition, for the first time, thecompany aims to utilise influential bloggers. The adverts send consumers to the Acuvuewebsite for further information and details of how to apply for a free trial. Displaymaterial is available from Acuvue account managers, to act as a signpost to help informthe patient, triggering them to come into practice and ask for a trial.Online training and educational materials are available at www.jnjvisioncare.co.uk

NEWS

T H E U K ’ S L E A D I N G O P T I C A L E X H I B I T I O NS I N C E 1 9 7 8

1 8 - 2 0 A P R I L 2 0 1 5B I R M I N G H A M N E C

S AV E T H E D AT E A N D R E G I S T E R Y O U R I N T E R E S T AT

O P T R A FA I R . C O . U K

Telescopic contact lens prototype

TELESCOPIC CONTACTLENS UNVEILEDOptics specialist Eric Tremblay fromEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lau(EPFL) in Switzerland unveiled the latestprototype in telescopic contact lenses,and debuted accessory wink-controlledglasses that switch between normal and2.8x magnified vision, at the recent AAASAnnual Meeting in San Jose, California.

Since 2013, scientists have been fine-tuning the telescopic contact lens membranesand developing accessories to make theeyewear smarter and more comfortable. Thecontacts work by incorporating a very thinreflective telescope inside a 1.55mm thickscleral lens.

“We think these lenses hold a lot ofpromise for low vision and age-relatedmacular degeneration,” said Tremblay. “It’svery important and hard to strike a balancebetween function and the social costs ofwearing any kind of bulky visual device. Thereis a strong need for something more integrated,and a contact lens is an attractive direction.At this point this is still research, but we arehopeful it will eventually become a real optionfor people with AMD,” Tremblay added.

The British Contact Lens Association(BCLA) said it applauded any innovation“that would give people back their preciousgift of sight”.

Professor James Wolffsohn, DeputyExecutive Dean of the School of Life andHealth Sciences at Aston University, andBCLA Academic Committee chairman,commented: “This seems an intriguing idea –to provide optical magnification to theretina when required in a similar way to abioptic telescope. It is currently a sclerallens and 1.55mm thick, including rigidmirror elements, which are likely to affectcorneal physiology and comfort even withthe suggested micro-fenestrations for oxygentransmission. As the scientists acknowledge,there are significant ongoing challenges, butwe look forward to testing the concept oncea clinical prototype is available.”

To download the press pack about bothinnovations, visit https://documents.epfl.ch/groups/e/ep/epflmedia/www/20150213_AAASContactLenses/


NEWS

It is with sadness that we record the death of Michael Jaggs on 30 January,aged 77, after a bravely fought battle with cancer.

Michael had been a part of my career since I was a trainee dispensingoptician and he was a dashing, handsome not-that-long-qualified contactlens fitter, as we were known then. He came to 22 Nottingham Place,London, then the home of the Association of Dispensing Opticians (ADO)and the Guild of British Dispensing Opticians, to give revision lectures for thedispensing examinations.

Michael had begun his optical career with Leightons, but by the mid1960s was providing contact lens services in the south of England and fittinga variety of lenses to interesting people; it was reputed he sometimes flew topractices. His love of fast cars – Porsches with his personal numberplate ‘MJ 7777’ – remained throughout his life.

By 1970, he also had consulting rooms in Weymouth Street, London, and thecontact lens laboratory where he had started to make his rigid lenses (PMMAthen) had moved to Turnpike Field, his beautiful house in Hartley Wintney(contact lens laboratories in garages were not uncommon in those days!)

In the spring of 1971, Michael gained the contract for contact lensservices for Clement Clarke and Melson Wingate and began to increase histeam and facilities – so Opticare, the fitting service, and Optimedic, thelaboratory, came into existence.

I have many memories of that time not least the first staff meeting heldat the house, followed by a delightful dinner. As the business developed, itwas necessary to move the admin and laboratory to offices in Farnham,Surrey. At the end of that decade, the two major companies using Opticaretook a decision to form internal contact lens services. In 1985, Optimedicwas sold to WJ Pilkington Barnes Hind, to provide its RGP lens production.

A man of many talents, outside optics Michael extended hisentrepreneurial instincts in a variety of areas, including landlord of thegarage space Andrew Gasson and I used in Duchess Mews. His involvementwith manufacturing led him to become an active member of the Associationof Contact Lens Manufacturers (ACLM), including becoming its chairman andtreasurer, as well as involvement in Europe for the ACLM.

He was a founder member of the ADO Contact Lens Study Group and itschair in 1976, when it was involved in discussions led by Montague Ruben,then president of the Contact Lens Society. The end result was the formation,in 1977, of the multi-discipline British Contact Lens Association (BCLA),amalgamating the Contact Lens Society, the ADO Contact Lens Study Groupand the Association of Contact Lens Practitioners. Michael was a ContactLens Optician Representative on the BCLA Council for a number of years, wasBCLA president from 1986-7, and was later the Association’s treasurer.

Michael was a Liveryman of the Worshipful Company of Spectacle Makersand latterly its chaplain. In 1995, Michael chose to follow in his father’sfootsteps and was ordained as a priest in the Church of England, only retiring recently.

Michael was a contact lens examiner for the ADO and then for ABDOwhen that was formed from the ADO and the Faculty of the SMC, and was amember of the ABDO Contact Lens Practice Visitors team until he retired in2013. He was also chair of the ABDO Contact Lens Committee for a numberof years. Michael continued in private and hospital contact lens practice untilshortly before his death.

Sincere condolences are extended to his family – his wife Jan and hischildren Sarah, Richard, Sophie and Alexander.

Obituary

The Rev. Michael Richard Moore Jaggs

FBDO(Hons) CL 1938-2015

By Rosemary Bailey


CALIFORNIA DREAMINGThe original California surf, snow and youth lifestyle brand, O’Neill wasfounded in 1952 by young surf ‘dude’ Jack O’Neill, whose company wascredited with inventing the wetsuit. The O’Neill eyewear collection drawsinspiration from California beach sunsets, the rugged wilderness of theNor-Cal coast and the passion Jack O’Neill had for his surfing roots.

In colours drawn from the new season apparel collections, the O’Neillsunglass collection for 2015 has a style to suit everyone – from thevintage-led Shoal for girls, with gently rounded contours and soft keyholebridge, to the festival favourite Shore in all new matte-finish neons, and theuber-retro Anso with its 80s racing styling and futuristic printed colourways.With polarised lens options, lightweight materials and bespoke logodetailing, the O’Neill sun collection, available from Inspecs, combines coolstyling and inspired colourways with the quality and attention to detailcentral to the O’Neill name.

GIVING CYCLISTS A SIXTH SENSEBollé’s latest interchangeable lens model, the 6th Sense, is designed tomaximise both horizontal and, particularly, the vertical field of view forcyclists when checking road conditions. Its Trivex lenses feature an anti-fogtreatment and a hydrophobic and oleophobic coating designed to meettough conditions. Its aerodynamic design channels airflow and itswraparound profile fits seamlessly with the face, as worn by Bollé’sprofessional cycling teams – Team Orica GreenEdge and AG2R LA Mondiale.

Bollé’s b-Thin Active Design prescription technology can now beintegrated into 6th Sense shields for unique precision and comfort. 6thSense is available in seven frame colourways, features interchangeable lensesincluding photochromics, Thermogrip temple tips and nose pads, and isavailable from +6.00D to -8.00D. Hydrophobic and oleophobic treatments,to prevent rain, sweat and grease clinging to the lens, add the finishing touch.

LIGHT, FLEXIBLE AND FUNCTIONALThe new Litefit 2.0 by Adidas Eyewear supersedes its predecessor bycreating a more dynamic outline. These highly sportive contemporarydesigns are supported by technological innovations that enhance theeyewear’s fit and function. The frames feature an ultra lightweight andflexible, yet shatterproof frame, due to the use of Silhouette’s proprietarySPX material. Performance Steel inlays within the temples allow for simpleadaptation to various head shapes, while the temples can be easily adjustedin length. Titanium pad arms and a double axis movement system for thenose pads deliver an optimised fit to the nose, while Traction Grip materialThe Litefit 2.0 by Adidas Eyewear

Built to performThis month’s product spotlight is on sports eyewear offering

high-tech performance and on-trend styling

SportS

New season sunglasses from O’Neill

Interchangeable lensmodel from Bollé


on the temples and nose pads deliver stability to support an active lifestyle.Designed for unprecedented comfort, the Litefit 2.0 comes in seven frame colours, two sizes and two distinct shapes with the af46 and af47 variations.

PRESCRIPTION OPTIONS FOR ALLNorville’s latest sports frame is the glazeable Blick Junior swimming goggle. The Blick benefits from three bridge options, which broadens its ageappeal from five to 12 years of age, and has a standard prescription rangeof +4.00D to -8.00D with opposite cyls to 4.00. The goggles also offer softnose pads and temples to increase protection.

Norville believes there is still huge untapped potential for practices interms of marketing sports prescription eyewear, in particular for juniorfootball, cycling and water sports. The company offers several options forprescription sports eyewear, including Sportor HD digital lenses,manufactured in Gloucester and suitable for semi-rimless 8 base wraps.

Also available from the company are Trivex Drivewear lenses, ideal forcyclists. Norville also recommends Tribrid, which it describes as “arevolutionary lens technology that combines the best properties to provideyour patients with enhanced all-around performance for their strongerprescription requirements.”

WEARABLE STYLES WITH MEMORY The Nike Flexon Hyper collection from Nike Vision combines the wearablestyle and lightweight comfort of plastic-framed eyewear with theprogressive strength and flexibility of the company’s advanced memorymetal – Flexon. The collection is built with a dual-injected manufacturingprocess featuring a TR-70 chassis sealed inside rubber, with Nike Flexonencased in the nosebridge. All three materials are ultra lightweight andflexible, and thanks to Nike Flexon’s innovative memory properties, theframes can bend, but are engineered to return to the original fit and shape.

“The main goal was to completely reshape the look and feel of Flexonby creating something fun, flexible and irreverent – but also at the top ofits game,” said Carl Allen, Marchon Eyewear senior designer. The collectioncomprises two shapes, the Nike 4258 (pictured) and Nike 4259, bothfeaturing a waffle tread pattern and cantilevered hinges where hits ofaccent colour reveal the dual-injected inner frame material. The sameaccent colour also lines the lens grooves.

ALL-DAY, FULL-EYE COVERAGEMaui Jim’s Five Caves lightweight nylon sunglasses feature an assertive,rectangular shape, wide temples and embedded Rubberon nose pads andear pads for stability and comfort. Sized for medium-to-large sized faces,Five Caves offers all-day, full-eye coverage. The SuperThin Glass lenses offerthe crispest edge-to-edge optics and are 20 per cent thinner and lighterthan conventional glass lenses, according to the company.

Five Caves comes in Black and Grey Tortoise with Neutral Grey lenses; DarkTortoise Stripe with HCL Bronze lenses; Olive Stripe with Maui HT lenses; orWhite with Maui Rose lenses. This style has an eye size of 61.5mm, bridge sizeof 16mm and temple length of 120mm, as well as an 8-base curvature. FiveCaves is available in prescription with digital parameters of +3.00D to -4.50D.

SPACE AGE MEETS SPORTS LUXE Silhouette’s new Futura is light, practically weightless, streamlined anduncompromisingly minimal. Heralded as a style where ‘space age meetsfuture style with a sport luxe twist’, the Futura offers an extravagant lookreminiscent of modern retro but with a high-tech quality design.

“The fine art of eyewear manufacturing relies on more than just designalone; it is the result of a perfect blend of design, material and know-how,”said a spokesperson. “With its high quality standards and clear concept, theSilhouette brand has maintained its position at the forefront of eyewearmanufacturers worldwide for 50 years.”

Lightweight comfort withNike Flexon Hyper

New Blick Junior from Norville

The Futura’s bright

Five Caves by Maui Jim


HERITAGE BRAND TAKES A NEW DIRECTIONWell-known High Street sports brand, New Balance, has launched a newcollection of eyewear, including a collection for children and sunglasses, all available from Atlantic Optical.

The story of New Balance begins at the turn of the 20th century inBoston, Massachusetts, when William J. Roley, a 33-year-old Englishimmigrant, committed himself to helping people with problem feet bymaking arch supports and prescription footwear to improve shoe fit. Onehundred years later, New Balance remains committed to its heritage – so aswith the footwear, the New Balance Eyewear collection features the NewBalance trademark of: fit, performance and comfort.

In line with Atlantic’s policy, the New Balance Eyewear collection isoffered with no minimum orders and comes with a full two-year no quibble guarantee.

POLARISING TECHNOLOGY FOR VISUAL PERFORMANCEMaking its debut at Mido in Milan, the new Polygon sports eyewearcollection from Italian firm, Allison, was three years in development. Thecollection comprises of six sunglass models made with the company’sPentapolar technology, with its five-layer polarised lenses featuring: ananti-glare coating; HIR (High Impact Resistant) triacetate treatmentoffering high resistance to scratches and shocks; the latest generation ofpolycarbonate lens Optical Class 1b; a PVA Polar Filter cancelling reflectedrays and glare; and a graduated mirror treatment.

Polygon frames are very light and resistant, made in Polygore, a high-performance techno-polymer whose chemical stability allows high heatresistance, resistance to deformation and excellent electrical insulatingproperties, stable in a wide range of temperatures and frequencies, said thecompany. The adjustable nose pads on two models also ensure a perfect fitto the shape of the face.

CELEBRATORY SPORTS RESTYLINGUnveiled at Mido in Milan last weekend, the new rh+ brand sports eyewearcollection from Italian manufacturer, Allison, comprises a selection ofmodels dedicated to urban cycling and golf. The Stylus RH851 (pictured) isa celebratory restyling to mark the 15th anniversary of the first rh+ Stylus,a bestseller recognised all over the world as a brand icon. A luxury sportstyle, the new Stylus is a super lightweight and ‘indestructible’ sunglassthat with its See Safe soft lens protects the eyes 24/7.

CUSTOMISED COMBINATIONS FOR FIRST-CLASS CONTRASTSThe American brand Revo complements Menrad’s range of sunglasses withpremium sport and performance sunwear. Revo is a world-renown brand ofsunglasses, which originated from a passion for technology, comfort andsports. All frames in the collection provide the opportunity for customisedcombinations with different performance lenses. Five different varieties oflenses are available, which are able to fulfill the different demands ofpatients’ outdoor sports and leisure activities.

“The iridescent and polarised coating of the lenses matches the latestNASA technology and allows for perfect vision with peerless acuity andfirst-class contrasts,” said the company.

Don’t forget to download the Sports Eyewear infographic from the ABDOwebsite to share on your practice website and via your social media network.Next month’s product spotlight is on Sunwear and UV protection.

New Balance Eyewear

Polygon performance sunglasses

The rh+ Stylus RH851

Model Freeman from the Revo range

abdoCOLLEGE

For further information and application forms for this and othercourses, or to request a copy of the ABDO College Prospectus,please contact the ABDO College Courses Team on 01227 738 828(Option 1) or email [email protected]

ABDO College Operational Services, Godmersham Park, Godmersham, Canterbury, Kent CT4 7DT

www.abdocollege.org.uk

www.twitter.com/abdocollege

Foundation Degree/BSc (Hons) in Ophthalmic DispensingA two year Foundation Degree course followed by a third year BSc Degree course in Ophthalmic Dispensing – leading to BSc (Hons) and the ABDO Level 6 FBDO qualifications.

Course features• Combines academic and work-based learning• 32 weekly distance learning units in each academic year• Four weeks block release at Godmersham in each academic year• Access to supplementary web-based interactive tutorial presentations• Block release accommodation can be provided• Year 1 courses will commence in September 2015

Entry requirements• Grade C or above GCSE in English, mathematics, science and two other subjects, including evidence of recent learning• Applicants must be working in practice as a trainee dispensing optician for a minimum of 30 hours per week and have the support of their employer

Working in partnership, ABDO College and Canterbury ChristChurch University are proud to offer a comprehensive blendedlearning course for prospective dispensing opticians:

• The only blended learning degree course in ophthalmic dispensing available in the UK• Leads to a BSc (Hons) degree and the registerable FBDO qualification• A successful partnership committed to the furtherance of dispensing optics• Equips students with the ability to problem-solve within the practice, benefiting both students and their employers• A proven track record of success through consistently high theory and practical examination results• Establishes a platform to build further career advancement

A unique career opportunity in dispensing optics


Sports participation is anincreasingly popular pastime inthe UK with many peopleenjoying more than onesporting activity and often well

into and beyond their middle years of age.A survey conducted by Sport England in2010 reported that some 14.759 millionadults take part in at least one 30 minutesporting activity per week, with 6.927million of those actually enjoying three ormore sporting sessions each week.

With approximately one third of thepopulation requiring spectacle correction, itis fair to say that if we use an estimatefrom the figures already given, there aresome 4.92 million UK residents who requirespectacle correction whilst taking part insports. This equates to a possible market ofnearly five million people who could belooking for a sports vision spectaclesolution from their eyecare professionals.

A sports spectacle solution needs asmuch time and consideration from thedispensing process as a pair of ‘everyday’wear spectacles. It can be said that thereare three main elements of sportsspectacles, which when put together willprovide the best sports vision solution forthat wearer. High performance eyewear likethis is a combination of lens design, framedesign and tint/filter choices that are all ofequal importance to the overall spectacleperformance. This article will focusattention on the choice of suitable lensdesign as, without a fully functional lensthat provides uncompromised clear vision,any pair of spectacles is pointless.

It may be obvious to state that vision ismore comfortable when clarity and acuityare maximised, and when glare has beenremoved, but are there any serious lenssolutions that can provide this in today’smodern wrap/sports frame styles?

THE CHALLENGEHistorically, eyecare practitioners wouldhave declined any patient’s request to havetheir prescription placed into a high wrapfashion or sports style frame for severalgood reasons:1. More often than not, a high fashionsports frame would require a larger thanaverage diameter lens blank. As the majorityof lens manufacturers/suppliers would belimited to 80mm blank sizes, thepractitioners would’ve struggled to acquire

a lens large enough to fit in the frame.2. Should the practitioner be able to sourcea large enough lens blank, they would’veprobably found that it was produced with arelatively low base curve, specifically theminus powers, giving the prescription lensesa fairly flat form. Glazing a flat lens into ahigh wrap frame forces the frame front toflatten out and the sides to splay which, inturn, means the head width becomes toolarge for it to fit behind the ears.3. Large blank sizes mean increasedcentre/edge thickness so any practitionerwho managed to overcome the first twoissues given above, would inevitably befaced with the challenge of managingexpectations with regards to aesthetics.4. A practitioner succeeding to overcome allof the above and produce a pair of

COMPETENCIES COVEREDDispensing opticians: Communication, Professional Conduct, Optical AppliancesOptometrists: Communication, Professional Conduct, Optical Appliances

CET

Prescription lensesfor sports

C-39470

This article has been approved for 1 CET point by the GOC. It is open to all FBDO members, and associatemember optometrists. The multiple-choice questions (MCQs) for this month’s CET are available online only,to comply with the GOC’s Good Practice Guidance for this type of CET. Insert your answers to the six MCQsonline at www.abdo.org.uk. After log-in, go to ‘CET Online’. Questions will be presented in random order.Please ensure that your email address and GOC number are up-to-date. The pass mark is 60 per cent. Theanswers will appear in the July 2015 issue of Dispensing Optics. The closing date is 12 June 2015.

Line of sight Lens optical axis

Face form angle

Figure 1. Effect of face form angle on alignment of visual axis and optical axis

Sponsored by

By Tanya Storey FBDO


prescription wraparound spectacles with atraditional ophthalmic lens would then facetheir biggest challenge – the patient’s visualacuity. The high wrap of a sports/fashionframe would cause a discrepancy in thealignment of the visual axis with the opticalaxis of the lens (Figure 1).

As the two axes no longer coincide, thewearer would experience uncomfortabledistorted vision with an element of ‘swimeffect’. Figure 2 demonstrates the level ofastigmatism induced by a 15˚ face formangle (FFA) on a -2.00DS lens with apantoscopic tilt of zero. In this particularexample, the correct lens to dispense toneutralise the astigmatism would be ofpower -1.83/-0.13 x 180.

To simplify the dispensing process,manufacturers of individualised lenses cancalculate the true power requirements forlenses in their final ‘as worn’ positions whensupplied with some additionalmeasurements taken whilst the patient iswearing their chosen frame. The additionalmeasurements required will be discussedlater within this article.

OVERCOMING THE CHALLENGESAs we have seen, there are several opticalchallenges presented by the need forprescription lenses in high wrap frames – soone might ask the question: ‘Are wrapframes essential for sports?’ The answer isundoubtedly, yes.

High wrap frames offer an improved fit,ensuring the frame stays in place whilst thewearer is active within their chosen sport.The large eye-sizes offer wider fields ofview, ensuring that the frame rim isn’tvisible to the wearer and the overall designdramatically improves protection from bothUV, foreign bodies and weather conditions(eg. rain and wind).

The clear need for high wrap sportsframes has forced a new era in spectacle lens design to overcome thehistorical challenges presented by theframe’s curved design.

THE FIRST ATTEMPTSpectacle lens designers first tackled sportsvision with a prism compensated lensdesign, which forced the alignment of thevisual axis with the lens optical axis bysurfacing prism into the rear surface. Theresult was a lens design giving excellentperformance at the optical centre or fittingpoint of the lens (Figure 3).

This example shows us that a patientprescribed -3.00DS will perceive the -3.00Dprescription at the optical centre of thelens, but will experience aberration in thelens periphery caused by the inducedcylinder from the poor lens design. A moresuitable method of correction would still beneeded and, thanks to advances in digitallens surfacing methods, spectacle lensdesigners now have the hardware toproduce the previously imaginary perfectoptical surfaces that were once thoughtonly to be theoretical.

THE ADVANCED OPTIONFreeform, or digital surfacing, as a form oflens production first hit our shores in 2002

and has opened the doors to lens designsolutions that were previouslyinconceivable. We now have the capabilityof producing lens surfaces with uniquecurvatures that will provide accurate visionacross a range of base curves and positionsof wear. By utilising sophisticatedalgorithms in advanced design software,lens manufacturers could now overcomethe historical issues of flat, small blanksthat provided cosmetically and visuallyinadequate sports lenses and replace themwith accurate high performance digitallysurfaced sports lens solutions.

Figure 4 demonstrates the example of a -3.00D lens correction that has now beendigitally surfaced with a quality sportsvision design that has been optimised foruse in high wrap frames. Let us nowconsider an example of a prescription thatwould, at first glance, probably have youthinking that a wrap frame correctionwould be out of the question. Figure 5 is an example of a +5.00D prescriptioncorrection in a wrap frame with a FFA of 15°.

Fig 2. Astigmatism induced by high face form angle

FP Cylinder 0.01[D]

FP Power -3.03[D]

Sphere -3.00D

Cylinder in the periphery

Figure 3. Prism compensated sports lens design

Accurate optical power andno cylinder in the entire lens

FP Cylinder 0.01[D]

FP Power -2.99[D]

Sphere -3.00D

Figure 4. Fully optimised and individualised single vision sports lens design


Continuing Education and Training

The first image in the table depicts astandard single vision lens mounted in awrap frame, which shows a large amount ofaberrations within the lens periphery and atfitting point. The prism-controlled lens hascorrect power at fitting point but, again,there are large amounts of unwantedcylinder across the rest of the lens surface.The final image in the table shows theperformance of a digitally surfaced sportslens that has been fully optimised, duringthe design process, then individualisedduring the surfacing process for use in wrapframes. This lens exhibits true power and noaberrations at fitting point and across thelens surface.

As you can see from the images in thelast table, there is a huge variation in lensperformance with clearly only one suitablefor classification as a high performance lensdesign solution – that which has been fullyoptimised and individualised for use in wrapframes that has been digitally surfaced.These lenses not only provide superiorvisual performance but will also outperformtheir predecessors with cosmetic value too.

The opportunities for sports visiondispensing don’t stop with single visionwearers either. Many manufacturers now

offer progressive solutions for presbyopicsports enthusiasts and the same principlesstill apply. A traditional, or prism-controlled,design could be tried which will providecompromised performance, or theoptimised digitally surfaced designs couldbe chosen, which will outperform either.

Figure 6 depicts a regular progressivelens design glazed into a wrap frame.Aberrations can clearly be seen in both thenear and far viewing zones which arebrought about due to the high wrap of theframe, the addition being moulded on thefront surface and the patient’s prescriptionbeing surfaced to the back surface. Figure 7shows a PPL design that has been fullyoptimised for use in a wrap frame.

The design and power of these highlyadvanced progressive and single visionsports lenses are maintained due to theoptimisation applied during the designphase, which is reproduced by surfacing theprescription onto the rear surface withfreeform generators, whilst applyingindividualisation technology that considersthe final as worn position of the chosenframe. This means that any of themanufacturers currently offering advancedsports lenses that take full advantage of

modern spectacle lens design and productiontechniques, will inevitably ask for the finalposition of wear measurements when thelenses are ordered. The three main additionalmeasurements that will be requested are:

• Vertex distance• Pantoscopic angle• Face form angleThese three measurements can be taken

manually using traditional techniques, byutilising especially designed kits from lensmanufacturers (Shamir Panorameter IIdepicted in Figure 8), or with digitaldispensing tools by way of dispensing towersand tablets.

The measurements provided will beused by the manufacturer to produce lensesthat when viewed through the ‘as-wornposition’, provide the clearest visionpossible at the fitting point and in theperiphery as discussed previously. Anexample case will now be considered.

The following patient is supplied with a1.6 Progressive sports lens design:

Prescription:

Right Eye: +3.00DS/+0.75DC x 45 Left Eye: +2.50DS Addition: +2.00D R&LFrame Data:Horizontal boxed lens size (A): 64mmVertical boxed lens size (B): 38mmDBL: 14mmMono PD’s: 32mm R&LMono Vertical Heights: 20mm R&LFace Form Angle: 24 degreesPantoscopic Angle: 6 degreesVertex Distance: 13mm

The final lenses supplied by themanufacturer may have a verificationpower of:Right: +2.81/+0.89 x 41.5 Add: +2.05 Prism:2.8∆ base 343.2

Asymmetric aberrationin the Far & Near zones

Fig 6. Progressive lens performancewhen glazed into a wrap frame

SV in Wrap frame SV with prescription correction SV fully optimized for Wrap framein Wrap frame

Figure 5. +5.00DS single vision lens in a wrap frame

Optical design

and optical

power are

maintained due

to the fact that aspeci�c freeformsurface is cut onthe rear surfaceof the lens

Figure 7. Fully optimised and individualised progressive lens design


Left: +2.30/+0.21 x 157.2 Add: +2.03 Prism:2.5∆ base 193.3

These powers reflect the designers’efforts to overcome errors caused by theoblique positioning of the lens in this highwrapped frame so that when worn by thepatient, they can enjoy superior visualperformance in the chosen sports stylespectacles.

LATEST DEVELOPMENTSThe method of high performance sportslens design and production has now beentaken even a stage further with lens designsbeing released over the past couple of yearsthat have not only been optimised andindividualised to work specifically in wrapframes, but also for various sports. Theseare not just the same old sports lenses with

a different filter/lens colour, but lenses thathave a different design concept to ensurethat keen progressive lens wearing sportsparticipants get the right power in the rightplace to ensure maximum visual comfortand performance.

There are only three such lensesavailable today that all utilise an individualpower profile to enhance performance forthe following given sports:

• Skiing• Golf• RunningThe ‘Ski’ lens design focuses on

minimising surface astigmatism, swimeffect and aberrations (Figure 9), to ensureclear safe viewing whilst moving at highspeeds, all vital considerations forprogressive lens wearers that ski.

The ‘Golf’ lens design tackles all of thewell-known drawbacks that progressive lens wearers face when out on the course,ie. golfers make more than average use oftheir peripheral field of vision as they focuson the ball, look out sideways to where they want the ball to go, and back down atthe ball.

Ordinary progressive lenses don’tprovide golfers with the extra help neededfor that peripheral viewing and the typicalpower profile of an ordinary progressivelens ensures that when viewing the ball attheir feet, there is too much power at thatparticular point within the corridor so theball isn’t clear forcing the wearers chindown into an uncomfortable position asthey try to find the correct workingdistance within the lens design (Figure 10).The Golf lens design then ensures clearperipheral viewing and a natural posturewhen addressing the ball along with cleardistance viewing and the ability to read tofill in their score card.

Any presbyope who runs regularly,whether for enjoyment or competitively isfamiliar with the problem ordinaryprogressive lenses present – sharp focus islost in vital areas. Speed and pace maysuffer as the runner deals with obstaclesthat may not have been clearly visible intime, or with distorted peripheral orproximal viewing. The ‘Run’ lens designovercomes these issues whilst optimisingvision in the 1-5m viewing zone (termedthe ‘safety zone’ by the supplier – seeFigure 11) by producing a unique powerprofile that lengthens the viewing distancein the mid-section of the progressivecorridor (Figure 12).

Each of these enhanced sport lensdesigns (Ski, Golf and Run), when combined

Figure 9. Ski progressive lens design

Figure 10. Optimised power profile of Golf vs traditional progressive lens design

Figure 8. Additional measurements required for individualised lenses


with a suitable tint, filter and coating, offerthe high vision performance expected bykeen participants in these chosen sportsvocations.

CONCLUSION

It should always be remembered that wecan produce any lens design using digitalsurfacing but it is a complete waste of timeif the design itself has not been optimised,for example in this instance, to perform inhigh wrap frames and individualised tomaximise performance in the chosen frame.

It is the design of the lens not itssurfacing method that dictates how a lens

will perform; the role of digital surfacing isjust to create the advanced curvescalculated during the design process whilstutilising as worn frame measurementsduring surfacing which traditionalproduction methods are unable to achieve.It is, therefore, imperative to work with alens manufacturer that can provide thesefully optimised and individualised freeformlens designs as the benefits are far superiorto those achieved by any other allegedsports lenses.

Although lens designs recommended for sport are offered by several UK marketmanufacturers, Table 1 highlights some of

those who supply fully optimised andindividualised freeform sports lenses, andthe ranges currently on offer.

When choosing the lens material for apair of sports spectacles, there are a fewfactors that should always be considered:

• UV: If the wearer’s sport is anoutdoor activity then a UV coating shouldbe applied to 1.5 hard resin lenses; all othermaterials will naturally absorb 100 per centincident UVA & UVB.

• Tensile strength: As 1.74 has verylow tensile strength this material isparticularly unsuitable for semi-rimlesssports frame styles.

• Impact resistance: This is by far oneof the most important factors whenconsidering lens materials for sportsparticipants and, therefore, 1.59polycarbonate or 1.53 Trivex materials arethe obvious first choices.

• Optical clarity: Lens materials with higher Abbe numbers offer the bestoptical clarity.

In the author’s personal experience, andconsidering all factors, 1.53 Trivex materialoffers the best all-round protection andperformance that sports enthusiasts expect from their eyewear. It offers greatUV protection, has good tensile strength, is impact resistant and provides greatoptical clarity.

1.53 Trivex material is now alsoavailable in a wide range of pre-tintedoptions offering great contrast under the‘NXT’ brand currently available throughseveral suppliers. Within the range arevarious fixed tint options, polarising filters,photochromic (Varia) options, mirrors andpolarising photochromic (Varia Polar) filters,all in a wide range of colours to satisfy thewearer’s individual colour preferences.

Figure 11. Visual requirements of a runner

Manufacturer

Kodak/SA

Nikon

Rodenstock

Seiko

Shamir

Zeiss/Sola

Min SPH Max SPH Max CYLSki Golf Run

Material Activity Specific Designs

1.53 1.59 1.6 1.67 1.741.5

-7.00PAL

SV

PAL

SV

PAL

SV

PAL

SV

PAL

SV

PAL

SV

-7.00

-10.00

-6.00

-6.00

-6.00

-5.00

-6.00

-4.00

-4.00

+7.00

+7.00

+4.00

+4.00

+4.00

+4.00

+4.00

+6.00

+4.00

+4.00

4.00

4.00

4.00

6.00

6.00

4.00

8.00

8.00

4.00

4.00

Table1. UK market manufacturers of individualised lenses for sport


MCAs

1. What does not form a rigid contact lens back surface design?a. Paraboloidal or elliptical aspherical curvesb. A series of spherical concentric curves c. Convex concentric curves to flatten the peripheral radiid. Aspherical and spherical curves

c is the correct answer. Convex (front surface) curvesare not relevant to a back surface design.

2. Which abbreviation is incorrectly written according toBritish Standards?

a. BPZD1b. BOZRc. BPZR3d. BZOD

d is the correct answer. BZOD should read BOZD.

3. Which statement is true regarding rigid contactlenses?a. It is not practical to verify the first peripheral zone diameterb. The tolerance on a back vertex power of -6.00D is +/-0.25Dc. Back optic zone radius cannot be measured with a keratometer

d. Peripheral radii are best checked using a V-gauge

a is the correct answer. Peripheral curve diameters canonly be successfully measured if the blending on the lensallows them to be seen. This is not often the case.

4. The geometric centre thickness of a rigid lens is likely

to be…

a. reduced if the back curve is very steepb. rejected if 0.01mm different from the specification orderedc. over 1mmd. between 0.1mm and 0.4mm

d is the correct answer. This is measured using a simple dial gauge, which is directly connected to a spring loaded probe.

5. If the contact lens is not placed very close to the

focimeter stop…

a. a cylindrical element will be introducedb. the reading will be more positive than the true valuec. the reading will be more negative than the true valued. a prismatic effect will distort the image

b is the correct answer. This is due to effectivitychanges, even with small discrepancies in distance.

6. On which set of measurements from the practitioner

do contact lens manufacturers mostly rely?

a. BVP, TD, BOZRb. BPZR1, BVP, TD c. BOZD, BVP, CTd. BPZD1, CT, TD, BVP

a is the correct answer. The back vertex power, totaldiameter and back optical zone radius.

Multiple choice answers:Measuring that unknown RGP in practice by Keith Cavaye

To dow

nload, print or save your CET result letter, go to

www.abdo.org.uk. Log-in and go to 'View your CET record'.

Sports participants will often spendhundreds of pounds on their clothing andequipment without a second thought asthey believe the benefits of using suchequipment will enhance not only theirperformance, but their overall experience

whilst taking part. This attitude would,therefore, suggest that many patientswould buy an optimised pair of sportslenses if the benefits were clearly explainedand demonstrated.

Many sports enthusiasts are actively

seeking new ways to enhance their sportingexperience. The sports vision revolution iscoming – ensure your dispensing solutionsperform.

TANYA STOREY is a registered dispensingoptician and Sportvision Diploma holder,currently working as productdevelopment manager for Shamir UK.Tanya has worked in optics for 17 yearsand spent seven of these in multiple andindependent practice working up to amanagerial level.

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTAll images and lens calculations are providedcourtesy of Shamir.

As one of the UK’s leading lensmanufacturers, and long-term advocate ofABDO, Shamir is proud to support thecontinuing education and training of eyecarepractitioners through Dispensing Optics.Figure 12.Optimised power profile of Run vs traditional progressive lens design


If you want to expand your practiceor develop a new specialism, haveyou thought of focusing on sportseyewear and eyecare? With specialistproducts and qualifications now

available, plus research to help sportspeople perform to the max, this is afascinating area. In this article, we hearfrom two optical sports enthusiasts abouthow they put their interest into practice.

‘GO TO’ PRACTICE FOR SPORTSJim Green is director of the Eyesite Group.He is also responsible for developing sportsvision services across the whole group. Asyou walk into Eyesite’s Brighton store, you’ll see high fashion spectacle framesdown one side, but on the other side thereis what Jim calls ‘the Oakley Wall’, withthree ranges of frames divided intoLifestyle, Active and Sports.

Jim explains: “We have around 125Oakleys in stock at any one time, and back

that up with 100 Maui Jim frames andaround 60 Bollés, as well as fashionsunglasses. Our practice is definitely adestination for sportspeople now. The teamis now briefed on the optical requirementsof most sports, and can ask about trainingand performance needs. A triathlete, forexample, might need different products forswimming, cycling and running, and we canprovide that whether they have aprescription or want plano lenses.”

The reputation of Eyesite Brighton for sports eyewear has developed over anumber of years through the efforts of the team to build links with local sportsclubs and professionals. Jim says: “Wedecided that we wanted to be moreproactive about sports vision, and aftermeeting with Geraint Griffiths andcompleting his sports vision training, ourfirst step was to contact local golf clubs.Their demographic matched our customerbase, so we picked three in

a triangle around Brighton, and spoke to the pros.

“We created a selection of framesspecially designed for sportswear, withOakleys, Bollé frames and a generic brandedproduct for those on a smaller budget. Wepicked products that would provide goodcontrast, and we picked Bollé because theyoffered prescription options from +8.00 to -8.00 DS – the best we’d found. Weintroduced the pros to these, and showedthem the specific products that would helpfor golf. Some were better for the dedicatedsportsperson, while others would also besuitable for leisurewear.

“All three pros came in and boughtsunglasses, which we offered them at acompetitive price. This gave us the chanceto explain about the benefits of highcontrast lenses, polarised lenses andinterchangeable lens features, and specialistfits, such as skull grip fitting, and the prosreally took the information on board.

Sports eyewear and eyecare

For our sports vision special issue,Antonia Chitty meets two expertsputting their interest into practice

SPORTS

VISION

Jim Green with Sussex CCC, which the practice sponsors


“This project resulted in a good rate of

referrals, and the benefits went further than

we had imagined, as one pro went on to

play in the South African league and

regularly tweeted photos of himself in

action, in our eyewear. We extended the

relationship with one of the clubs, and now

have our banner at the bottom of their

video playback coaching facility.”

CLUB COLLABORATIONS

Eyesite’s plans to expand sports

examinations and dispensing didn’t stop at

golf. Jim explains: “One of our optometrists

is a fanatic about cricket and sports vision.

With this interest, it made sense to develop

the sports specific Advance Gold eye

examination. Over an hour and 10 minutes,

this test involves the practitioner getting a

real understanding of the person’s sport, as

well as tests from our regular Gold

Standard eye examination, including OCT,

Optomap and retinal photography.

“The practitioner can discuss UV

protection, how to achieve best vision, the

use of polarised lenses, and we take

refraction very seriously. If the only issue

someone has is a 0.50 cyl and they are

asymptomatic, this may not be a problem

in everyday life, but can make a difference

at high level sports. We opt for the sharpest

vision so they can perform to their best

ability, even in low light levels.

“Cricket clubs have a duty of care to

their players, so when we approached

Sussex County Cricket Club, this level of eye

examination ticked all the boxes for them.

We initially agreed that all the A team

would be examined, but soon this included

the development squad and academy

players who wanted the same treatment.

We contra’d some of the investment the

club was making with marketing, so we

have banner adverts at the ground now.

“Beyond that, our practice has

benefitted as around 25 per cent of players

have gone on to have contact lens

examinations. Part of the agreement was to

offer every player a 30-minute Sports

Specific Sunglass Consultation. With players

often spending six months in the UK and six

months in sunnier climates, they had a

range of needs with two or three product

solutions, such as a very dark lens, a lighter

contrast lens and clear lenses for night

training. We have also found players

returning for sunglasses for family who

watch them at matches. We have even

signed a contract to deliver eyecare to the

large number of administrative staff who

work in the cricket club’s offices.”

Jim knew that in order to keep the

practice at the forefront of sports vision in

the area his next target had to be Brighton

and Hove Albion football club. He says: “I

am now in a position to confirm that we

are the Official Eyecare and Eyewear

Partner for the club. Part of this

arrangement is that we get involved with

the club’s promotional actives, and we

provide eye examinations for the club’s 200

admin staff. It’s a great opportunity to

educate the business about their duty of

care for employees who use computers,

how they can be seen to be proactive and it

fits with a ‘great place to work’ ethic.’’

Eyesite is also involved in the career of

motorcycle racer, Brad Ray. Jim explains: “As

a teenage racer with a +6.00 prescription, Brad

had never had sunglasses and his specs were

not ideal. I met his manager and we agreed

to help him. Because of the size of Brad’s

existing spectacles, he wasn’t getting in close

enough to corners, and competitors could

squeeze through the gap. We made him a pair

of Oakley Ophthalmic Paperclips, checking

that they would fit well under the helmet.

Motorcycle racer, Brad Ray, whose eyewear needs are met by Eyesite

By selecting

the best

lenses in this

frame, Brad’s

all-round

vision was

improved,

and he made

a podium

finish in

the next

three races.


“By selecting the best lenses in this

frame, Brad’s all-round vision was improved,

and he made a podium finish in the next

three races. He has raced in Texas, a

challenging proposition for any eyewear

with rain combined with 25 degree heat.

Brad races well in the rain, and has great

proprioception. We fitted him with Essilor

Optifog lenses. He didn’t steam up once,

and went on to outperform the field.

“When Brad started competing on the

world stage in order to provide him with

the best eyewear for his needs, we made up

a pair of wrapped 8D base sunglasses, to

not only protect his eyes, but to look the

part in the pit. Brad now regards putting on

his music, his sunglasses and his game face

all as essential parts of pre-race

preparation,” Jim adds.

Jim has developed a sports kit, which

consists of 10 pairs of sports specs, goggles

and diving masks, designed for every

practice in the Eyesite Group, and has

appointed a sports champion to lead on

sports eyewear. He says: “The practices are

all different sizes, but each keeps this as a

minimum. The kit makes it easy to meet

everyone’s needs, whether they simply want

a quick pair of best sphere swimming

goggles for their holiday, or are ready to

invest in the best to achieve performance

improvements.”

NOW FOR THE SCIENCE BIT…

When starting to think about vision forsport, Geraint Griffiths, author of theDiploma in Sportvision Practice and chair ofthe Association of Sport and School VisionPractitioners, says: “You need to understandthe refractive process in relation to eyedominance and dominance type. Everyonehas a dominant eye.

“There are two primary visual skills insport and all other occupations, aiming,where you are relative to the object inspace, and the ability to anticipate thearrival of the object based on depthperception. If someone has an unstableright dominant eye, for instance, that tendsto diverge as the eye fatigues, then the

position of the ball changes as attention

swaps to the non-dominant eye. As a result,

it hits their fingers or they miss it

altogether.

“Research has identified two types of

eye dominance: Type 1 in which the right

eye, right hand and right foot are dominant;

and Type 2 where there is any left tendency

in hand, eye or foot, which covers anything

from ambidextrousness in hands or feet to

mixed or complete left eye dominance.”

Geraint continues: “A difficulty with aim

or depth perception is associated with a

visual system controlled by focusing; the

accommodative vergence reflex is used to

control a lack of ability to converge. If you

don’t find the root of that problem, often

an accommodative/convergence

insufficiency and go straight to exercises,

you are just making a slow system work

harder. Once you stop the exercises, it all

returns to how it was.

“With divergence excess, it is vital to

make sure that there is no latent hyperopia

indicating over-accommodation. A careful

refraction and binocular balancing is

required to get out all the plus. After that,

the practitioner needs to measure the

fixation disparity, correct it according to

Mallett, and be sure to put the prism in

front of the eye with the slip. Now the

visual system isn’t led by the

accommodation, but is controlled by the

extraocular muscles.” Sports vision expert, Geraint Griffiths

Every sport

to a great or

lesser degree

requires a

visual input

and if this is

corrupted in

any way, this

will decrease

sporting

performance.


SEVEN KEY TESTS TO ASSESSGeraint has worked on developing a seriesof tests that help any practitioner make thebest assessment of vision for sports, andother occupations. He says: “In order for usto communicate this to the profession, wehave had to develop a diploma in sportsvision practice, which focuses on seven keytests, examining the seven elements ofvisual performance which all have to be inplace to play without difficulty.”

Carrying out these tests gives thepractitioner an opportunity to communicatewith the sportsperson. Griffiths says: “Thesescreening tests are the essential link to theathlete; they demonstrate effects to theathlete that they understand from theirsporting experience, such as eye dominance,to hit a ball or aim at a target. You can usethe Cover Test or an objective musclebalance test, showing a tendency for theeyes to diverge, which can be relateddirectly to their history or symptoms. Youcan demonstrate this as a dispensingoptician and explain the logic, if you aregrounded in the science,” Geraint explains.

“If any one diagnostic element ofsporting visual performance in the visualsystem is faulty, we use specs and/orcontact lenses, prisms and tints to restorebinocularity and aiming. Every sport to agreat or lesser degree requires a visual inputand if this is corrupted in any way, this willdecrease sporting performance.

“Optometry and dispensing optics areentirely complementary and equallyimportant to the visual outcome and longterm health,” Geraint says. “Vision andoccupation are directly linked. This helps usunderstand why anti-reflection coatings areimportant, and why we need to reduceglare. For good dispensing in sport, we needto be aware of modern trends in wraplenses – as peripheral vision is critical. Weneed to stay up-to-date with advances infreeform lenses and lens materials,understanding, for example whetherpolycarbonate or Trivex is better and theirtinting possibilities.

“Knowledge about tints is vital, such ashow and when to apply photochromic tintsand the kind of tint that someone needs.We’ve devised a test to assess thesaturation and hue of tints depending whenand where it is used. And contact lensopticians need to know when contact lensesmight be best with or without an opticalappliance – all the province of thedispensing optician.”

The visual system affects a whole rangeof sports. Shooting is dependent on goodvision, as Geraint says: “We have worked

with some members of the Olympicsporting team in pistol, clay and rifleshooting. One very interesting finding isthat the monocular correction of prism isvery important. This confirms my belief thatthe eye that has the paresis is the one thatneeds support; prism shouldn’t be splitunless there is no other option.

“One person tended to lower her headgradually as she aimed, to elevate her eyeto combat a weakness in her depressormuscles. She already had the other eyeoccluded as she couldn’t shoot with botheyes open. We measured the effect ofvertical prism on the clarity of foresight ofher gun, and the vertical prism was the onlything that improved this,” he adds.

Football is a different sport to shooting,but uncorrected visual errors still play a bigrole in damaging performance. Griffithssays: “A goalkeeper in a good league clubwas sent along as he was missing balls fromthe wing and misjudging tackles. He was abig chap, a professional athlete, with his jobon the line. He turned out to be slightlymyopic by half a dioptre with some

astigmatism and initially he appeared to beesophoric. When this small amount ofmyopia was corrected, he becameexophoric. He was controlling adecompensated phoria by usingaccommodation, habituated by aconvergence insufficiency.

“Once his vision had been stabilisedwith contact lenses, presenting a clearfoveal image, everything fell back intoplace. I heard from the manager a fewmonths later that he had been sold forthree times his transfer value and hisperformances had become world class.

“There is much more that sport visioncan contribute to our overall understandingof how the eye and body work insynchronicity,” Geraint concludes.

For more information, visitwww.sportvision.co.uk. You can alsolearn more about finding the best lensesfor sport in two articles that GeraintGriffiths wrote for Dispensing Optics inthe April and May 2013 issues. Find outmore about eyesite at www.eyesite.co.uk

Geraint in his specialist practice


Optrafair organiser, theFederation of ManufacturingOpticians (FMO), believesthis year’s event, beingheld at the NEC Birmingham

from 18 to 20 April, is destined to be the“best ever” and is “not to be missed”. It’scertainly not one to be missed for ABDOmembers, who will have the chance to hear from some leading lights in the field of vision science in a dedicated ABDOprogramme running on both Saturday 18and Sunday 19 April in the ABDO Lecture Theatre.

As an official event partner, ABDO will beoffering CET with a bespoke programme(repeated on both days) featuring fiveinternationally acclaimed speakers includingspecial guest Bernard Maitenaz. “ABDO’s CEToffering at Optrafair 2013 was so well acceptedthat for 2015 we have devised a dedicatedprogramme and will utilise a speciallydesigned lecture theatre within the Optrafairexhibition hall, to give opticians theopportunity to access the type of speaker UKopticians wouldn’t normally get to see,”explained Elaine Grisdale, ABDO head ofprofessional services and internationaldevelopment.

“Flying in especially to lecture for ABDO,most of our speakers work behind the scenesevery day in the research and development ofproducts being dispensed in High Streetpractice. This is a unique opportunity to heardirectly from the ‘horse’s mouth’ so to speak –and to go beyond what’s written about today’s

products in marketing brochures. There’ll bean opportunity to speak with each presenterafter their lectures and to ask them anythingyou’re not sure about.”

FROM RESEARCH TO WEARABLETECHNOLOGYIn a joint presentation entitled, ‘Fromphysical to physiological optics: latestresearch impacting on future lens choice’,Bernard Maitenaz and Bérangère Granger willcover the history and development ofprogressive power spectacle lenses, thehundreds of different lens types availabletoday, and how important research is inintroducing quality products.

“As the inventor of Varilux lenses 60 yearsago, Bernard Maitenaz is a legend in his ownlifetime,” said Elaine. “It will be a real thrill tosee him share a stage with Frenchoptometrist Bérangère Granger, a talentedresearcher on the visual system, currentlyworking in R&D with Essilor International.”

Also on the programme is a presentationby Finnish optometrist, Petri Escola of HoyaVision Care Europe, who will discuss ‘Fiftyshades of grey and more: understandingphotochromics’. An expert in fitting spectaclelenses and in the technical details of lensdesign, Petri is also visiting lecturer atHelsinki Metropolia University of AppliedSciences Department of Optometry for LensTechnology and Non-Adaptation.

Polarised lenses will be to the fore in apresentation by Igor Loshak of YoungerOptics, entitled ‘Polarised lenses as key to

ideal eyewear’. “As Younger’s vice president ofinternational business, and with an MSc inchemical engineering, Igor has a uniqueinsight into polarised lens dispensing andtechnology from both a scientific andbusiness angle,” said Elaine.

Igor’s lecture will include an analysis ofexisting ophthalmic lens technologies withthe emphasis on properties vs values asbenefits for the end users. He will alsospecifically emphasise the currentdevelopments in prescription sunwear,polarisation and photochromic technologies,advances in materials and the influence ofdigital surfacing technology on lensavailability and selection.

If smart glasses are beginning to piqueyour interest, then look no further than BobForgan’s lecture, ‘Smart glasses: the future ofeyewear’. “Managing director of WatersideLaboratories, Bob is at the forefront of thisburgeoning industry and is an expert on howdispensing smart eyewear could work ineveryday practice. His lecture will provide anenthralling insight into the latest developmentsin smart glass technology, focusing on theadded value dispensing opportunities thisnew category offers whilst addressing how toovercome the new optical challenges thatsmart glasses present.”

Completing the line-up will be afascinating ‘behind the scenes’ look attraditionally surfaced ophthalmic lens solutions

Eyes down for Optrafair

ABDO is bringing a bespoke CET programmeto Optrafair in Birmingham next month,writes Nicky Collinson

Preview

ABDO speaker and Variluxinventor, Bernard Maitenaz

Get the low-down on smart glasses in the ABDO Theatre


for troublesome prescriptions with NorvilleGroup director, Paul Walden, in ‘Computersays no: what a difference a decade makes’.Paul has worked for the Norville Group for thelast 25 years, starting in manufacturing inGloucester, and is now involved in manyaspects of the business including newtechnologies in lenses, equipment and IT. Hispresentation will deal with traditional specialistlens supply for higher prescriptions, challengingprisms and prism control along with specificfinishing and handmade lens manufacturing.Paul will then examine new productionmethods in freeform and the viable solutionof troublesome prescriptions in this newestof lens making mediums. His talk will alsotouch on occupational and sun lens options.

Each lecture will be free to attend for bothABDO members and non-members, on a firstcome first served basis, and will offer oneinteractive CET point. To view the fulltimetable and programme of seminars, andto book, go to www.optrafair.co.uk

ABDO will also be conducting paediatricdispensing workshops in the ABDO Theatreon Monday 20 April at 9.30-10.30am, 11amto 12pm, 12.30-1.30pm and 2-3pm. Admissionis strictly limited, there will be no advancedbooking and places will be allocated on afirst-come, first served basis on the day. Theworkshop will be approved for three CET points.

NETWORKING AND BRAINSTORMINGBut it’s not just CET on the ABDO agenda atOptrafair – there’ll be plenty more on offerfrom the Association over the three-dayevent. ABDO and the FMO are comingtogether on the evening of Sunday 19 Aprilto throw a networking party at the NECGallery – providing a unique opportunity forprofessionals across the sector to gettogether, enjoy live music, drinks andcanapés. The event is free to attend, butadmission is strictly by ticket only – so planahead and book your party ticket todayonline at www.abdo.org.uk/events

If you have something to get off yourchest, or you'd simply like to catch up, allABDO members are invited to meet up withABDO president, Peter Black, vice president,Fiona Anderson, and other board members, inthe Association Lounge at stand S50. “This isthe perfect opportunity to sit down and‘brainstorm’ ABDO’s strategies and to letboard members know your views,” explainedMichael Potter, ABDO head of marketing andcommunications. “It’s vital members havethis chance to air their views in person withthe Association, so we urge everyone to comealong and have a chat. Members’ personalengagement with their own Association is akey factor to the future development of our profession.” Visitors will also have the

chance to find out the latest on ABDO’sInsight programme in collaboration with ITN Productions.

The ABDO College team will be ready toanswer any queries on stand H17, withinformation available about the College’sextensive range of courses such as the degreeprogrammes run in conjunction withCanterbury Christ Church University. If you’relooking to pick up the latest tomes on opticaldispensing and related subjects, then catch upwith the ABDO Bookshop team as well. They’llbe exhibiting a selection of the bookshop’sbest-selling publications, including the new2015 edition of Ophthalmic Lenses Availability.

Summing up, Michael Potter said: “Optrafairis the leading UK exhibition and educationalconference dedicated to the needs of theoptical profession since 1978. As an officialevent partner, ABDO will have a strong presenceat the show and has organised a number ofspecial events and activities. The Associationtherefore urges its members to attend andthereby benefit from all that the show has tooffer – we look forward to seeing you there!”

Book your place for lectures online viathe Optrafair website at www.optrafair.co.uk

PRODUCT PREVIEWS AND PROMOTIONSThe latest frame company to confirm itspresence at Optrafair 2015 is Marchon. “Welook forward to welcoming visitors to ourstand to view the latest collections from ourextensive brand portfolio and the chance tobenefit from our exclusive show offers,” saida spokesperson. Optrafair visitors will be thefirst to view the new collections fromSilhouette, which returns to exhibit after asix-year absence. The company will beintroducing SPX+ full-rims, and from AdidasEyewear there’ll be the latest Evo sportseyewear collection of cycling frames.

To celebrate its 2015 optical and suncollections, Dunelm Optical will present morethan 150 new styles, while Dibble Optical willlaunch brand new Dutch design, VinginoEyewear for children. Making its Optrafairdebut, Eyespace will showcase more than 50styles from its six designer-led brands, whileContinental Eyewear will have 10 new X-eyesdesigns on show, the 2015 Jaeger sunglasscollection and new additions to its Lazer rangefor both children and adults. Highlighting thetrade show launch of Invu, the polarisationrange from Swiss Eyewear Group, Norvillewill show a complete range of both plano andglazeable frames plus sports Rx solutions.

Shamir will be introducing its new AttitudeIII Sport & Fashion lenses with vision zonesespecially suited for any lifestyle or activity,and the Attitude III SV for those requiringsingle vision prescription sunwear. Hilco willdisplay Glide-Fit SunClips – its ‘trouble-free’

SunClips system that works with both metaland plastic frames and combines the easyon/off utility of a spring bridge with a uniquepatent-pending ‘slip over’ clip.

In technology, Birmingham Optical willshowcase the latest tools from Oculus andKeeler plus the Nidek range, including thenew Nidek Retina Scan Duo combining highdefinition OCT and fundus imaging. NorvilleAutoflow will display the full ranges of Briotand Weco edging systems for the lab as wellas products for both the practice andworkshop. A new addition to the Zeiss standwill be the Zeiss Experience Centre – allowingvisitors to embark on a journey around thepractice set-up, experiencing how diagnosticequipment and data management canintegrate to produce a sophisticatedworkflow, for both the patient andpractitioner.

Bausch + Lomb will be flying the flag forthe contact lens industry. Tom Bailey, Bausch+ Lomb sales and clinical training manager,said: “There is a huge opportunity to dispensecontact lenses to the presbyopic market withour new lens technologies; our nutritionalproduct Ocuvite and the Eye-ssential maskare all important opportunities for additionalsales and building loyalty to the practice,”added Tom.

The British Contact Lens Association(BCLA), also an Association Partner ofOptrafair, is eager to meet those notcurrently prescribing contact lenses, as CEOCheryl Donnelly, explains: “As well as catchingup with our existing members, we are keen tomeet with those eyecare practitioners whodon’t fit contact lenses to discuss how,alongside spectacle wear, offering a dedicatedcontact lens service can be a huge andsuccessful part of their business.”

The BCLA will be sharing a space withindustry partners, and offering shortpresentations in a contact lens fitting area,‘giveaways’, and the chance to win a VIPPackage to its 2015 conference.

For more information about Optrafair, afull list of exhibitors and to register visitwww.optrafair.co.uk

Eyewear fashion will take centre stage


More than 6,000 visitorsturned out for the three-day event, which offereda mix of CET, businesslectures, hands-on

sessions – including ABDO frame andpaediatric spectacle fitting skillsworkshops – plus some 2,000 products ondisplay from around 200 exhibitors, dailyfashion shows and celebrity appearances.

Exhibitors praised the event, with JasonKirk of Kirk & Kirk saying: “100% Optical2015 was a great event that marks aturning point for British optics.” Chris Beal,Menrad MD, said: “It’s been an excellentshow with plenty of activity and a positive vibe.” Visitor reaction was equally positive.

“The show provided a great selection oflarge and small brands. It’s a good size andthere was great CET on offer,” said Nicholas Fox of Fox Stephens. Indy Doldeyof Shropshire commented: “This was myfirst visit to 100% Optical and it was very good: easy to find, nicely laid out withuseful informative talks.” An Eyewear Design Competition, run in

conjunction with the Royal College of Art,crowned Hannah Evans as the winner. Shewill now go on to take an internship withMondottica. Jade Edge won the show’sVisual Design Competition, which invitedstudents to come up with some uniqueideas for window displays based on thelatest eyewear trends. Jade created‘highlights’, and her window display waspurchased at the show. A #blinkwinkthink social media

campaign in association with charitypartner, Fight For Sight, raised thousands of pounds towards vital pioneering eye research. 100% Optical’s event director, Nathan

Garnett, commented: “We are extremelypleased with the second edition of 100%Optical. The addition of some key brands inthe industry, as well as support from acrossthe optical profession, meant that we were

able to improve the experience for ourvisitors and deliver a trade event that theindustry can be proud of. “The feedback has been extremely

supportive and we are now busy planningthe 2016 show with lots of new ideas

on how we can take it further. We arealready up 50 per cent year-on-year forexhibitor bookings and many new brandscame to see how they could take part in 2016. 100% Optical in London is here to stay.”

Attendance at 100% Optical, held atLondon’s ExCel last month, was up by 25per cent according to organiser, Media 10

RepoRt

Catching up with members at the ABDO Arms

Show attendance up by a quarter on 2014

100% Optical “here to stay”

Well, where to begin? When I arrived at ExCel –directly from a very early flight to the capital –I proceeded directly to the exhibition hall,large coffee in hand. I had visited the 100%Optical website before I left home to seewhat was on offer and was impressed bywhat I had read – and on arrival in London Iwas not disappointed.

The amount of CET/CPD on offer wasamazing. 100% Optical offered – and delivered –lectures on the main stage, supported bysmaller, more ‘hands-on’ discussion and skills-based workshops in each of the Equipment,Lens, Business and Fashion ‘Hubs’ within theexhibition halls. The topics covered were vast:clinical management, technology, customerservice, contact lenses, marketing, HR to namebut a few.

The main lectures and workshops Iattended were, not surprisingly, centred ondispensing and I stayed within the Fashion Hub,as this was where most of the dispensing topicswere delivered. The main stage was used formore clinical subjects and keynote lectures.

FOCUSING ON OUR STRENGTHSOn Saturday, Debbie Gigg of the WorshipfulCompany of Spectacle Makers, delivered alecture entitled: ‘How good HR practise canimprove your practice’. HR is an area that manyDOs are happy to leave to head office but if, likeme, you don’t have a head office, what do youdo? Who do you turn to? What are the legalities,etc? Debbie highlighted common senseapproaches to many situations, which couldarise in practice and showed practical solutionsto potentially difficult situations within the day-to-day running of our businesses.

On Sunday, ABDO’s own Elaine Grisdaletook to the stage to discuss bespoke eyewear,extolling the strengths and skills we have asdispensing opticians. She encouraged theaudience by reiterating that we can producebespoke eyewear for our patients because weare all taught how to take appropriate facialmeasurements and it is, of course, a requisite tobecoming a fully-fledged qualified optician andpart of the Final Qualifying Examination (FQE).

We need to have faith, dare to be different andactually do it, she declared.

Elaine also shared the ‘how to’, whichserved as a helpful reminder to those DOs in theaudience who have to shake off the dust fromtheir facial gauge before they use it! Elaine alsospoke about the way offering a service such asbespoke eyewear can, and does, differentiatethe practice and the business opportunities thatthis can bring.

The two days I spent at 100% Optical werenot only reviewing the education on offer. Ispent a large amount of my time at the purposebuilt ABDO Arms. When I read this in the pre-conference blurb, I had visions of myself beingbehind the bar pulling pints or my worstnightmare – waitressing! Thankfully, neither ofthese two jobs came to pass, which I amextremely grateful for, and I spent many ahappy hour chatting to delegates.

Most of the visitors I spoke with were eitherABDO or Association of Optometrists members,and they were happy to chat about what theythought of the show, and what they had comespecifically to see. A great many exhibitors also stopped by the Arms to catch up, and thewhole vibe of the event was extremely laid backand convivial.

‘HAVING A GO’ TO BOOST OUR SKILLSNow onto the workshops: ABDO president,Peter Black, led a skills workshop entitled,‘Should I really be sending that away?’, whichwas well attended and often oversubscribed –so much so, extra sessions were hastily put on.The workshop centred on repairs andmodifications that can be made in practice torimless frames and mounts – without the needto send them back to a lab or prescription house.Many delegates I spoke to really enjoyed the‘hands-on’ nature of the workshop and beingable to try to effect the repair themselveswithout having to worry that they would breakor damage spectacles belonging to a patientwhich would likely have cost hundreds of pounds.It was a safe environment to ‘have a go’.

ABDO also provided a paediatric spectaclefitting skills workshop with ABDO’s Barry

Duncan, Paula Stevens and Joanne Abbott ablyassisted by the ABDO paediatric heads – theanatomically correct heads that werecommissioned by ABDO to enable opticians toperfect their skills when fitting children.

The three current heads represent a 12-month-old, a nine-year-old and a five-year-oldchild with Down’s syndrome. This workshop wasalso oversubscribed with delegates standingaround ‘in the wings’ just in case there were any‘no-shows’ and a valuable space could be filled.Again, delegate feedback stated that it was greatto be able to ‘get stuck in’ and actually makeadjustments and modifications to frames and thenfit them to the world’s best behaved children!

Another skills workshop was led by WalterBerwick – the very last apprentice bespokespectacle frame maker in the UK – and tools Iremember as a newly qualified DO were sittingon Walter’s bench. Sides were being shortenedand repined, bridges being ‘bumped in’ and angleswere being altered with files. It was a real ‘blastfrom the past’. This sat side-by-side with cuttingedge technology from today – as there just feetaway from Walter’s clavulus was a state-of-the-art 3D printer merrily printing out spectacleframes and 3D heads. Truly mind blowing.

If delegates hadn’t already had enoughCET, there were six interactive poster quizzesarranged throughout the exhibition halls in atrail. Many delegates were seen chatting toeach other and discussing the cases on show –creating a truly ‘interactive’ CET experience. Ihad a great two days at 100% Optical – wastotally exhausted by the end of it and sleptmost of the way home on my flight toAberdeen. It wasn’t all work – a good deal of itwas play – and I met many old friends and madesome new ones. What more can you ask for?

Fiona Anderson BSc (Hons), FBDO R, SMC(Tech) is ABDO vice president, chairman ofABDO Area 12 (Scotland) and a self-employed dispensing optician. She is alsoan ABDO practical and theory examiner,Optometry Scotland council member, andGrampian AOC observer.

100% Optical was a great environment to get ‘stuck in’, writes Fiona Anderson

Getting ‘hands-on’ in aframe workshop

A chance toenhance skills

Taking a ‘selfie’ for the#blinkwinthinkcampaign


As was to be expected, eyewear was inevidence in great numbers at the show with agood selection of individual designers, andsmall collections from overseas – a welcomesight along with some well known names,retro companies and old favourites.

The frames were diverse and individual,with many designers using their own names as abrand, showing that anything goes. A new hornand carbon fibre mix material was proudlymentioned, as were bright acetates, horn andwood. Colour hand-painted on and laminatedfabric gave eye-catching brightness to variouscollections, while others used thick and heavyplainer shapes for the men with small butmemorable details.

Metal and rimless frames are still populardue to their thin and lightweight properties,with the shapes evolving towards the bolderand larger acetate designs. These rangesshowed a stronger, more adjustable design thanoriginal styles that were hoped to be virtuallyunbreakable. The 12 live catwalk shows gave usthe chance for a welcome break at scheduledpoints throughout each day, as the energeticteam modelled hundreds of the new frames

working within the themes of tropical jungle, la vie en rose, blue jeans, nautical and springshowers.

On show were new inspirational designs asa result of the Eyewear Design Competition,organised in collaboration with the RoyalCollege of Art. More than 60 students took partand the six finalists were unveiled at the show,and many of their designs were modelled on thecatwalk. Students and judges took part in adiscussion about their designs, and Algha Worksof London had made up the winning designs as prototypes.

Smart glasses, many designs of which arestill in their prototype stage, had a strongpresence on the Waterside Labs stand, whichwelcomed a famous visitor in the form of theGadget Show’s Jason Bradbury. Smart glassesare ‘facewear’ featuring a wearable computerand heads-up display (HUD). In some cases,the HUD can visually deliver images viaBluetooth from your mobile device, such astext, directions, videos, photos, live chat,locations and so on.

As many of the population access a mobiledevice daily, some nearly every waking hour,

and 66 per cent of the population wear somesort of visual correction, it is expected thatpeople will want to wear a frame and lenscombination that will give a good standard ofvision with an upward and outward eye rotationtowards the HUD, and will connect to, or bepart of, the mobile device system.

Could this be the future of frame and lensdesign? Many people think so and some havestarted to produce eye rims to marry with themobile device brow bar and digitally redesignlenses to give a clear optical performance whenthe patient’s line of gaze towards the HUDwould traditionally cause unwanted prismaticeffects and off axis aberrations, especially withhigh powers, oblique cylinders and progressives –or a combination of all three!

Whilst at the moment the technologypieces are heavy and thick, it is easy to bringback memories of the first mobile phone orvideo tape, and realise that wearabletechnology will be part of the optical world.Exciting times are ahead.

Kim Marchant FBDO is a dispensingoptician at Colin Lee Opticians.

Kim Marchant rounds-up the eyewear exhibition

Daily fashion showswere a hit

Inventive displayswere all around

Relaxing and catching up atthe Fight for Sight party


Testing out the latest equipment Tom Davies Bespoke consultant, SophiaPerkin-Chaplin, models one of the shortlistedDADA competition entries by Peter Akkerman


More than 90 guestsjoined Vision AidOverseas (VAO) onMonday 9 February for a special evening to

celebrate its milestone and to enjoy thecompany of VAO staff, volunteers andtrustees. Held in the Balcony Room atthe Swan at Shakespeare’s Globe on thebanks of the River Thames, with itsmagnificent views across to St Paul’sCathedral, guests included two honorary vice presidents, Brian Ellis MBEand Dame Mary Perkins, founder ofSpecsavers Opticians, and a number ofsenior representatives from internationaloptical associations and the UK opticalindustry.

30 YEARS OF ACHIEVEMENTIn a presentation to assembled guests, VAOchairman, David Scott-Ralph, thanked theevening’s sponsor, Topcon, before explainingthat the last three decades had seensignificant achievements for theorganisation. From its humble beginnings asa small group of volunteer opticians whoestablished the charity in 1985, it had goneon to help more than one million people in26 countries gain access to life-changingeyecare through the provision of sight tests,training eyecare workers and establishingvision centres and programmes throughoutthe developing world.

David then outlined the charity’s 30th

anniversary programme objectives, whichincluded, “a chance to reflect on the impactwe have had in the countries where wehave worked and of the people whose liveswe have changed; a celebration of thevolunteers who are at the heart of theseachievements and of the fact that we are avoluntary organisation in the purest sense;an opportunity to acknowledge and thankour current funding partners, and we hopeto make new funding partnerships; and alaunchpad for the next phase of our workand, crucially, the chance to raise additionalfunds to support it.”

“For 30 years, our professionalvolunteers have been the heart and soul ofVAO’s work, even while our approach hasmoved with the times,” said David. “Theywill continue to form the DNA of thecharity as we embark on the next phase ofour work, with a new strategy to launchlater this year. In the course of working onour new strategy, we’ve been looking atvision and mission statements. We believe acompelling vision for VAO is this: no-onelives in poverty because of poor eyesight;no one lives with poor eyesight because ofpoverty.”

During the evening guests were able to admire an exhibition of photographstaken by volunteers over the years, andwere shown a short video featuringGizachew Achiso, whose life had beenradically changed for the better thanks toVAO volunteers.

Commenting after the event, VAOexecutive director, Nigel Wilson, said: “Wewould like to thank all our supporters pastand present for the significant differencethey have made to these communities –without them none of our work would havebeen possible. Vision Aid Overseas’ focusnow is to look forward to the next 30 yearsand to proactively continue our mission offighting poverty through the power of goodvision,” added Nigel.

2015 FUNDRAISING CHALLENGEVAO is aiming to raise £150,000 ofadditional donations in 2015, to help anadditional 30,000 people in developingcountries gain access to life changingeyecare services. Volunteers will take part ina number of different fundraising activitiesand events throughout the year includingthe London Marathon in April, the British10K London Run in July and the Great 10kmEthiopian Run, which offers fundraisers theopportunity to enjoy a six-day organised‘Ethiopian Experience’ in return for theirfundraising efforts. The iconic run takesplace in Addis Ababa on 22 November withan expected 40,000 people registering totake part from across the globe.

Flying from London on Wednesday 18 November, VAO runners will have thechance to join a number of optionalexcursions prior to race day, includingvisiting a VAO project and exploring the cultural delights of the highest city in Africa.

Jeremy Jalie, VAO development director,said: “This is a fantastic opportunity to visit the beautiful country of Ethiopia,which is very rich in culture and character.It will also offer our supporters theopportunity to see first-hand some of thelife-changing work Vision Aid Overseasundertakes, thanks to the efforts of ouramazing supporters.”

To find out how to get involved in a VAOproject, fundraising adventure, or to make adonation, visit www.visionaidoverseas.org

Vision Aid Overseas kick-started its 30thanniversary year programme last month witha celebratory gathering in London

Charity

VAO celebrates

Honorary vice president Brian Ellis MBEwith VAO executive director, Nigel Wilson

Guests of Vision Aid Overseasenjoying the evening

It was around seven years ago that a colleague firstsuggested I attend a local optical committee (LOC)meeting to get some idea of what goes on ‘behindthe scenes’ in the world of optics. Little did I knowthat this ‘sideline’ to everyday practice would grow

into such an interesting part of my optical career. I first qualified as a dispensing optician in 1993, going

on to complete the contact lens qualification two yearslater around the same time I began managing a large citycentre practice in Plymouth. The practice had recentlystarted to see diabetic patients for an optometric-ledDiabetic Retinal Screening Service and, at the time, itseemed that shared care and integration of care betweenHigh Street opticians and the NHS was going to presentnew professional opportunities, as well as commercialventures.

I knew very little about how these services could bestarted at my practice, and even less about how they werecommissioned from the NHS in the first place. However, itwas obvious to me – and it still is – that there are manyservices that can be better delivered and which, moreimportantly, patients prefer to be delivered, at their localopticians rather than at a distant, under-pressure hospitaleye department.

The logical people to turn to for further advice at thattime were the members of my LOC and, as luck would haveit, the members of Devon LOC turned out to be a verywelcoming bunch and had a strong committee with oneother dispensing optician on board.

IN AT THE DEEP ENDAt the time I joined, Devon LOC was in the process ofnegotiating with the then primary care trust (PCT) for thecontinuation of the optometric-led Diabetic RetinalScreening Service (DRSS) rather than a ‘man in van’, orhospital-based service, and was also negotiating for aCommunity Glaucoma scheme. I volunteered to help theLOC vice chair, who headed up the DRSS sub-committee,and soon found myself sitting alongside LOC colleagues innegotiations with NHS commissioners, managementconsultants, and hospital consultants. So I found myselfquite literally ‘in at the deep end’; it was endlesslyfascinating and frustrating at the same time.

What I noticed as time went on – and thesenegotiations took nearly two years – was how everyone Iwas working with was deeply committed to the best

outcomes for patients, and so the optometric communityand the work I was doing for the LOC became more andmore fulfilling.

When we finally signed the first Service LevelAgreement for our DRSS in Plymouth, it was with a realsense of pride and with a much broader understanding ofthe commissioning processes within the NHS. I wasappointed to be the LOC representative on the DiabeticScreening Programme Board at this time.

ROAD TO QUALIFICATIONBy the time the negotiations finished, I had developed areal interest in diabetic retinal screening and the localscreening programme manager suggested I looked at theCity & Guilds Diabetic Retinal Screening Qualification tobecome a Screener/Grader.

This course is ideal for dispensing opticians as at aScreening level, the process involves patient interaction,measurement of visual acuities, and retinal photography –many of the things we are involved in on a daily basis. Italso offers the opportunity to take further units to obtain aGrading qualification, which opens up a world of retinalanatomy, physiology and pathology, which we rarely touchon as dispensing and contact lens opticians. I was lucky inthe fact that the local programme was happy to fund mycourse – and that is still the case in some areas.

My work time is now split between managing a largecity centre practice, undertaking contact lens appointmentsand diabetic retinal screening – all of which I find deeplyrewarding – and the variety of patients I deal with certainlymeans no day is ever the same.

However, I do feel it is the work I have been able to dowith the Devon LOC that most fascinates me and will helpmy future career development. I have been involved withnegotiations at a high level within the NHS locally, havetruly learnt that a patient-centred approach meansdifferent things to different people; I have learnt tocompromise – and when not to – and met a great group ofprofessional colleagues who really care about the future ofoptometric-based services.

I have also been sponsored by ABDO to attend thePublic Health Course at Leeds University – a four-daycourse with a broad range of attendees from dispensingopticians to NHS managers, ophthalmologists andscreeners. The course is well worth attending if you want toknow how the NHS makes spending decisions.

Taking centre stage inshared care

Now is the time to stand upand get involved in shared care,writes Max Halford

Jottings


PUTTING OUR SKILLS TO USE

As ‘shared care’ becomes more of a necessity for the NHS,

balanced against stringent budget cuts, there are challenges

for the profession, which the LOCs are best placed to solve.As reported in last month’s Dispensing Optics, I was

recently able, with the support of the Devon LOC businessmanager, to survey the patients using our DRSS inPlymouth; this showed an overwhelming desire by patientsto be seen in the setting of their local opticians rather thanat a screening centre, ‘man in a van’ or the local eye unit. Ifeel very proud that, as a dispensing optician, I have beenable through Devon LOC to commission and deliver thisservice for these patients.

Dispensing opticians often have management experience,which means we have a portfolio of skills we can utilise in adifferent way from ‘the day job’. We can help progressnegotiations and offer solutions to move work away froman under-funded and under-resourced secondary caresetting to the primary care setting of High Street opticians.

If you like a challenge and want to use some skill setsyou’re not fully utilising in practice then I would heartily

recommend attending an LOC meeting and gettinginvolved. LOCSU, the support unit for the LOCs, runsexcellent training courses for new LOC members, details ofwhich are on its website, www.locsu.co.uk

If you are looking to further your professional skills thenconsider the City & Guilds qualification in Diabetic RetinalScreening; it is a fascinating ‘next step’ for dispensing opticansand is studied in a very similar way to the ABDO qualificationswith distance learning and tutors to support you.

The future? Well, why can’t dispensing opticians withthe contact lens qualification perform GoldmannApplanation Tonometry (GAT) and deliver elements ofMinor Eye Condition Services (MECS and PEARS)? There isabsolutely no reason – it just needs to be negotiated and itis certainly something I will push for via my LOC.Dispensing opticians have undersold and underestimatedthemselves for many years and perhaps now is the time tostand up and get involved. Good luck!

MAX HALFORD FBDO(CL) is a contact lens optician atBoots Opticians, Plymouth, and Diabetic RetinalScreening lead for Devon LOC.


Frequently asked questionsanswered by Kim Devlin FBDO (Hons) CL

HANDING OUT CONTACT LENSES

This month’s FAQ is about contact lenses – but it affectseveryone in the practice so keep reading…

The question was: “Can an unqualified person give outcontact lenses?”

The answer is, as always, “It depends”. If thecircumstances are that a patient calls into the practice tocollect their new six-month supply of monthly disposablelenses, a non-qualified person may issue them if, and it’s abig if, the transaction follows certain protocols.

The lenses must have been ordered, or the orderauthorised, by the optometrist or contact lens optician aspart of the ongoing care of the patient; they must havebeen checked on receipt from the laboratory or wholesalersby that person to ensure they are the correct design, sizeand power – and that the ‘use by’ date is acceptable.

That check should be noted on the record, for acomplete audit trail, and then the clinician need notpersonally hand the lenses out. The patient can then benotified that the lenses are ready for collection; theunqualified member of staff must be aware of the checksand the pricing, be it direct debit or pay as you go. Then thepatient may collect them safely from the unqualifiedmember of staff.

The situation is more complex when the sale is not to apatient of the practice but to a patient holding a contactlens specification. This sale is perfectly legal but a qualifiedpractitioner must have checked the specification, checkedthat it is in date, signed and contains all the relevant detailsand then checked that the lenses are correct, as with apatient of the practice.

What may not happen is that a patient calls in to the

practice claiming contact lenses have been promised,pleading that they desperately need them that night andfully expecting the optical assistant to rummage in acupboard and hand them over. It happens in every practiceand it is vital that all members of staff are aware of thetricks wily patients use to try to get contact lenses thatthey are not safe to wear.

It may often be the case that the eyecare practitionerwishes to see the patient when they collect the lenses; theymight well be a new design or power, which have to bechecked in situ before being taken. An appointment maywell have been made, but patients don’t always realise theimportance of such checks and pop in before theappointment and ask to take them; “I’ve worn them foryears, there’s no problem”.

It takes a pretty confident person to deny them lensesbut that’s what they must do. The statement: “Mr Bloggshas particularly asked to see you to collect these lenses.May I make a more convenient appointment for you?”,often works but only if everyone knows the situation andreasoning behind the actions.

It is particularly difficult in big, busy practices whereinstructions can be lost or misunderstood. All practices needstandard operating procedures for these circumstances.Staff, qualified or not, must understand the ramifications ofcontact lenses being given out like sweeties. If patients seeand understand that systems are in place for their ownprotection, they are less likely to throw a strop when theydon’t get their own way.

It is sometimes necessary to say to a patient in front ofan optical assistant: “Please don’t be offended if our staff can’tissue your contact lenses; it is for your own protection –and mine.”

Kim Devlin

is chair of

ABDO’s

Advice and

Guidelines

Working

Group

Past FAQs are available for reference on the ABDO website at http://www.abdo.org.uk/frequently-asked-questions

Classified advertisements

• With the exception of turnover per eye examination the Key Performance Indicators fell below those reported in November• The majority of our benchmarks are higher than December 2013• Year-on-year growth for total turnover, number of eye examinations and number of spectacles dispensed was almost flat• Progressive lenses annual growth was positive by almost two per cent• New contact lens fits were marginally positive year-on- year and the value of solutions increased by almost 12 per cent• Panel members showed increased in optimism for future trading compared to last 2013

Optician Index -

The full December 2014 report was published in the 30 January 2015 issue of Optician.

December 2014results commentary

WHAT’S NEW IN EYECARE FAQNew this month on Eyecare FAQ, you’ll find an infographic to share on contact lensesas well as an optical lingo bingo card full of contact lens related words. How manyare you using every day, and do patients know what you mean?

You can use any of the FAQ answers and images on your own blog or website. Follow, likeand share these useful resources on your practice and personal social media channels, to helpthe public learn about eyecare and promote the role of the registered dispensing optician.

Get involved with EyecareFAQ, ABDO’s campaign to help consumers learn more aboutlooking after their eyes, and the role of the registered dispensing optician.

You can find Eyecare FAQ at:• www.facebook.com/eyecarefaq • www.twitter.com/eyecarefaq • plus.google.com/+eyecarefaq• or visit the website, www.abdo.org.uk/information-for-the-public/eyecarefaq/and promote the role of the registered

dispensing optician.


To place an advert, telephone

0781 273 4717or email

[email protected]

Booking deadline for the April issue

is Friday 13 March

Special rate for ABDO members

NOTICESummer 2015 examinations of theCertificate in Contact Lens Practiceand the Advanced Diploma in ContactLens PracticeApplicants should be aware that because of thecomplexity of the Contact Lens PracticalExaminations timetabling, applications receivedafter 1 March run the risk of refusal and defermentto the winter 2015 session of the examinations.

Important information about the Seven YearsRule – for those who have begun but notcompleted their Certificate in Contact LensPractice Examinations:

Those with partial success in the examinationsfor the Certificate in Contact Lens Practicequalification should note that candidates arerequired to retake any element/s of the ContactLens Certificate examinations, which were passedseven or more years previously.

A limit on the time for which a successfulassessment is valid was introduced in the light ofthe ever-advancing status of contact lens practiceand relates to theory examinations or sections ofthe practical examination.

The above does not affect those who already hold theContact Lens Certificate or Advanced Contact Lens Diploma.

DISPENSING OPTICIANREQUIRED

Dispensing optician required for busy,friendly,professional independent practice in Southend, Essex

Full supporting staffSalary £28k plus

Please send your CV to Ian TemplemanUnit 2, Asda Centre, Frobisher Way, Shoeburyness, Essex SS3 8UE

Telephone 07948 296642 Email [email protected]

www.bbgr.co.ukTel: 0844 880 1349 Always closer

Sirus® PlusNo need to move your head every time you want to see clearly!

Progressive lenses bringing all the benefits of technology

THIS IS WHYAIR OPTIX® COLORS sets a new standard in colour contact lenses.

Introducing the most breathable colour contact lens available1*

PERFORMANCE DRIVEN BY SCIENCE™

*Dk/t = 138 @ -3.00dpt. Other factors may impact eye health. **Compared to ACUVUE^ ADVANCE,^ ACUVUE^ OASYS,^ PureVision,^ Biofinity^ and Avaira^ contact lenses.

T̂rademarks are the property of their respective owners. †Lotrafilcon B contact lenses tested include AIR OPTIX® AQUA, AIR OPTIX® AQUA Multifocal and AIR OPTIX® for Astigmatism contact lenses.Important information for AIR OPTIX® COLORS (lotrafilcon B) contact lenses: For daily wear only for near/farsightedness. Contact lenses, even if worn for cosmetic reasons, are medical devices that must only be worn under the direction and supervision of an eye care professional. Serious eye health problems may occur as a result of sharing contact lenses. Although rare, serious eye problems can develop while wearing contact lenses. Side effects like discomfort, mild burning or stinging may occur. To help avoid these problems, consumers must follow the wear and replacement schedule and the lens care instructions provided by their eye care professional.References: 1. Based on ratio of lens oxygen transmissibilities; Alcon data on file, 2009. 2. Based on in vitro measurement of contact angles of unworn lenses; significance demonstrated at 0.05 level; Alcon data on file, 2009. 3. Eiden SB, Davis R, Bergenske P. Prospective study of lotrafilcon B lenses comparing 2 versus 4 weeks of wear for objective and subjective measures of health, comfort, and vision. Eye & Contact Lens. 2013;39(4):290-294. See instructions for use for complete wear, care and safety information.10881 © 2015 Novartis AG. AIR OPTIX, the AIR OPTIX COLORS logo, FreshLook logo, Alcon and the Alcon logo are trademarks of Novartis AG.

+

UNIQUE PLASMA SURFACE + 3-IN-1 COLOR TECHNOLOGY

PLASMA SURFACE TECHNOLOGYOffers superior wettability2** and provides deposit resistance for consistent comfort from day 1 to day 303†

For more information please ask your Alcon® Business Development Manager.

Before After

Carmen enhanced her look with Sterling Gray.

9 colours available with or without vision correction.

OUTER RING defines the iris

PRIMARY COLOUR transforms the eye colour

INNER RING brightens and adds depth

NEW

dispensing optics

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