Leading figures from optometry and ophthalmology in Australia and New Zealand presented the latest in research to over 400 delegates at this year’s Specsavers conference.
Professors Jonathon Crowston and David Mackey, Assoc Professors Dr. Alex Hunyor and Anthony Hall; and Doctors Trevor Gray and Alex Harper provided franchise owners and employees with information that could be put straight to work in practice at the Hilton Hotel event in Sydney on Sunday 16 June.
The speakers talked about the latest findings in the treatment of eye diseases including age related macular degeneration, diabetic retinopathy, glaucoma and acute inflammatory eye disease. Additionally delegates received an overview of common surgical vision correction procedures as well as a summary of vitreoretinal disorders and the associated treatment options.
A presentation by Prof. David Mackey gave an insight into genetic and environmental factors associated with myopia.
Paul Carroll, Specsavers Director of Professional Services in the United Kingdom, spoke to delegates about evolving models for eye care delivery, with specific reference to the experiences of eye care professionals in Scotland and England.
AUD$500,000 Donated to Fred Hollows
Specsavers prefaced its conference with cocktails at the Sydney Opera House the preceding evening. During the evening Peter Larsen, Specsavers Professional Services Director, announced a donation of AUD$500,000 to the Fred Hollows Foundation – the culmination of a charity drive that has involved all Australian Specsavers franchises as well as customers. A representative from Fred Hollows Foundation, present to receive the donation said the money will go a long way towards achieving the not-for-profit’s aim to eliminate avoidable blindness by 2020.
