By the time this issue hits desks, Australia’s eye care profession will be working with the Government of the 47th Parliament.
The lead up to the elections didn’t offer all that the health profession was after, however it did secure a commitment from both Labor and Liberal parties that a Medicare rebate cut for anti-VEGF injections to treat neovascular age-related macular degeneration, recommended by the independent Medicare Benefits Schedule Review Taskforce for Ophthalmology, would not be implemented. Macular Disease Foundation Australia is to be congratulated on their efforts to secure this commitment. As the Foundation highlights, out-of-pocket costs have a significant influence on treatment compliance – 29% of patients receiving anti-VEGF injections have considered delaying or stopping treatment due to cost.
Much of the political debate ahead of the election centred on environmental policy – there’s no doubt that this is an issue causing increasing concern across all generations and particularly among our leaders of tomorrow. As such, sustainable and green manufacturing has become an important contributing factor when making purchasing decisions. In this issue we shine the light on the manufacture and distribution of eyewear – frames, spectacle lenses and contact lenses – to find out how the environment is influencing innovation. It’s exciting to see even the smallest independents committing to finding processes that reduce energy, waste, and water while embracing opportunities to recycle.
At mivision we realise that while some subscribers prefer to receive our content online, many still appreciate the opportunity to step away from the screen (which is, of course good for the eyes), and pick up a printed document. To satisfy our own commitment to the environment, our printer – Special T – produces mivision on paper stocks that are FSC (Forest Stewardship Council) and EMAS (European Union Eco-management and Audit Scheme) certified, and meet ISO 14001; the international standards for an effective environmental management system. We use soy-based inks and have each issue wrapped in a biodegradable plastic.
Enjoy.
