Ophthalmologists, optometrists and orthoptists are invited to participate in a study conducted by researchers at Deakin University, and Queensland University of Technology in association with Vision Australia.
The purpose of the research is to determine enablers to improve access to low vision rehabilitation services for eligible patients. Vision impairment has a significant impact on everyday function and quality of life.
Several clinical trials have demonstrated the effectiveness of low vision services and support. However, less than 20 per cent of Australians with vision impairment access low vision services, even though an estimated 90 per cent could benefit.
Researchers believe a contributing factor to the low uptake of services is the lack of consensus on when patients should be referred, and also on what the criteria for referral should be.
The study consists of focus groups and a Delphi survey and will be led by principle researcher Professor Alex Gentle (associate head of school, teaching and learning, at the School of Medicine, Faculty of Health, Deakin University). Other researchers involved in the study are Professor Sharon Bentley (co-investigator, head, School of Optometry and Vision Science, Queensland University of Technology), Dr Heather Connor (co-investigator, senior lecturer In clinical skills, School of Medicine, Deakin University), and Khyber Alam (PhD candidate, School of Medicine, Deakin University).
For more information contact Khyber Alam at alamk@deakin.edu.au or 0431 339 466.
