The Australian College of Optometry’s National Conference takes place from 22 – 23 October at the internationally renowned MCG.
Among a line-up of internationally regarded renowned experts to speak at the conference is Clinical Associate Professor Nitin Verma.
Clinical Assoc. Prof. Verma – whose philanthropic ethic was acknowledged on Australia Day in 2013 when the City of Hobart bestowed the award of ‘Citizen of the Year’ upon him; and again that year when he represented the Tasmania as its State Finalist for the ‘Australian of the Year’ – will deliver the keynote address on Saturday morning, recounting interesting experiences that relate to the delivery of ophthalmic services in our global village. Additionally, he will engage in a fascinating discussion on retinal vascular disease during the afternoon and will return to the platform on Sunday with illuminating case studies on a variety of topics.
Dr. Heather Mack, an ophthalmologist who has accumulated a wealth of expertise in electrodiagnostics, will explain how this fascinating diagnostic procedure is immensely useful in the consulting room.
Clinical Assoc. Prof. Verma will deliver the keynote address… recounting interesting experiences that relate to the delivery of ophthalmic services in our global village
Is laughter the best medicine? You can decide over breakfast on Sunday morning when Adelaide based optometrist Dr. Rachel Sommer takes the stage. Taking the conversation away from optometry, Dr. Sommer will talk about her work as a comedian and how you too can get in on the act, with topics including how she got started in comedy, how to write jokes, how to perform on stage, and how to write a TV sitcom (you can read more about what to expect in the ACO interview with Dr. Sommer).
Dr. Donald Collie, Dr. Morton Rawlin and Chris Katopodis will mull over clinical issues that illustrate the necessity of devoting your undivided attention to your patients when they report their symptoms.
Professor Michael Ibbotson – the Director of the NVRI – and two co-presenters will provide an informative session about the essential roles – clinical, research-oriented and educational – that the ACO serves. Associate Professor Sharon Bentley, the ACO’s Director of Clinical Services, will update delegates on low vision technology while her co-presenter will introduce some exciting low vision applications.
As usual the ACO’s national conference will also include topics with a ‘therapeutic’ focus such as ocular emergencies, red eye differential diagnosis and ocular immunology. Associate Professor Alice Pébay, who heads the Neurogeneration Research Unit at the Centre for Eye Research (CERA) will encourage delegates to cast their gaze into the future as they learn about the marvels of stem cell treatment, while other topics will focus on detecting subtle anomalous pupil reactions and understand their implications and how to manage a patient who has experienced sudden visual loss.
Registrations are now open.
Phone (AUS) 03 9349 7477 or register online at www.members.aco.org.au
For more information and full program details see www.aco.org.au/professional-development/aco-national-conference
