The Australian College of Optometry (ACO) has announced a new professional development program: the Certificate in Advanced Ocular Therapeutics, set to commence on 1 June 2026.
This new four-month certificate is designed to do more than prepare for potential prescribing rights; it provides optometrists with a deeper understanding of ocular disease and the broad range of therapeutic treatments currently available. By moving beyond basic foundations, the course is designed specifically to provide practitioners with advanced clinical care pathways to suit the rapidly changing health care environment.
The ACT said many optometrists report that they would benefit from a deeper understanding of the management of complex cases. The ACO curriculum specifically addresses this by equipping participants with the tools to elevate the standard of care for their patients; championing patient safety while driving efficiencies in the health care system.
Mary Travis, Clinical Education Co-ordinator, noted that the course positions optometrists to play an increasingly vital role in delivering comprehensive primary eye care.
“Our new course in Advanced Ocular Therapeutics is designed to refine the skills and knowledge to practise with an enhanced clinical scope while fostering stronger collaborative relationships with local health professionals, including general practitioners,” said Ms Travis.
The curriculum focuses on five core areas essential for a holistic approach to eye health. Beyond advanced pharmacology and immunology, participants will undergo intensive training in the physiology of the renal, hepatic, and cardiovascular systems, which provides critical knowledge of the systemic implications of ocular conditions and understanding of the contraindications of various treatments.
The program also highlights special considerations for vulnerable populations, including pregnancy, breastfeeding, and paediatric dosing. Furthermore, a central pillar of the course is the Quality Use of Medicines (QUM) framework, which ensures a person-centred approach to every clinical decision, consistent with the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (Ahpra) National Prescribing Competencies Framework.
Established Leadership in Education
As a valued educator and advocate for community eye health since 1939, the ACO is a not-for-profit organisation committed to improving access to quality eye care through innovation and leadership.
Further information can be found at profession.aco.org.au/advanced-ocular-therapeutics.
