Recognising the critical role, and increasingly technical nature of dispensing, O=MEGA19 organisers have dedicated a Masterclass program for optical dispensers, mechanics, and practice staff.
The series of non-clinical Masterclasses at O=MEGA19 will cover a mix of practical dispensing – from basic lens dispensing (pre- Certificate IV) through to advanced dispensing for experienced, qualified practitioners.
Optical Distributors & Manufacturers Association (ODMA) chief executive officer, Finola Carey said the Masterclass program will be a “must-attend event for optical dispensers and practice staff with practical sessions designed to engage practitioners at all career stages”.
Presented by leading educators from TAFE NSW, the Australasian College of Optical Dispensing (ACOD), and the Academy of Advanced Ophthalmic Optics (AAOO), the Masterclass program runs over three days, from, Friday 19 July to Sunday 21 July.
It will kick off with Progressive lens dispensing – getting the basics right, presented by James Gibbons (ACOD) who will also present Hot tips for the successful optical dispenser on Saturday 20 July.
Australian Dispensing Opticians Association director and TAFE NSW optical dispensing course coordinator, Steve Daras will present Essential anatomy and pathology for dispensers, covering the basic anatomy of the eye, common visual disorders, common pathological conditions and information on handling an ocular emergency. Held on day one of the Masterclass program, Mr Daras’ session will target the novice optical practice staff member and is suitable as a refresher for more senior staff members. He will also present Tools for dispensing best practice, on 20 July and Top 10 tips for quality dispensing, on 21 July.
ACOD director and senior trainer Chedy Kallach will deliver the Masterclass Ophthalmic practice management – an overview, on 20 July before presenting Paediatric dispensing on 21 July.
Casual academic at RMIT and ophthalmic training facilitator for Spectrum Optical, Leigh Robinson will present How do I compete with millennial focussed optical outlets? on 19 July, The private world of prism on 20 July, and Advanced lens dispensing on 21 July.
Grant Hannaford, co-founder and director of the AAOO will uncover The true cost of remakes on 19 July and will then present Advanced lens dispensing on 20 July.
O=MEGA19 will take place from 19–21 July 2019 at the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre.
Registrations are open for the clinical conference (fees apply) which includes entry to the trade exhibition and delegates can earn up to 48 clinical CPD points. Registration is also available for the free trade fair only.
Non-clinical Masterclasses will run at the same time as the clinical conference. Tickets are AU$55 per session and include entry to the Trade Fair. Visit www.omega19.com.au