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Thursday / February 13.
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ACO Course Upskills in Paediatric Eye Care

The demand for paediatric optometric services is on the rise as the prevalence of myopia increases and the age of onset falls.

In less than two decades, the typical onset age of myopia has fallen from 11 years of age to eight years – a shift that has significant implications for long-term vision and overall eye health.1,2

To ensure better lifelong outcomes for these young patients, Catherine Tay, Clinical Educator at the Australian College of Optometry (ACO), believes optometrists must be equipped to intervene early.

“Increasingly, there is a critical need for early diagnosis, appropriate intervention and effective education with families to safeguard children’s visual development and overall health,” she observed.

The course not only covers myopia management but also vision therapy, learning-related vision problems, and paediatric ocular disease

But managing paediatric myopia is just one part of a broader challenge. Children may present with a range of visual issues, from abnormal binocular vision to conditions like amblyopia, strabismus, and nystagmus. Addressing these conditions requires a comprehensive understanding of paediatric eye health.

Theory and Practical Learning Essential

Recognising the need for ongoing professional development, many optometrists are seeking evidence-based approaches that allow for more holistic care. Keeping up with the latest research and techniques is becoming increasingly essential in modern practice, particularly when managing the diverse and complex needs of young patients.

Programs like the Australian College of Optometry’s (ACO’s) Advanced Certificate in Children’s Vision offer a structured pathway for skill development in this area. The course not only covers myopia management but also vision therapy, learning-related vision problems, and paediatric ocular disease.

And importantly, Shazia Tahseen, ACO Manager of Education said, the course balances theory with practice: participants gain practical experience through local clinical placements in Australia and New Zealand.

“Clinical placements, particularly in paediatric settings, provide optometrists with the opportunity to apply their skills in real-world scenarios. This hands-on experience not only solidifies learning but also builds the confidence needed to manage complex cases,” Ms Tahseen observed.

The results of a recent survey speak for themselves, with 90% of course participants reporting they felt more confident in assessing and managing paediatric conditions.

The ACO’s Advanced Certificate in Children’s Vision starts on 10 February 2025, with a flexible remote learning structure making it ideal for rural or remote optometrists and those balancing work and other commitments.

Learn more at www.aco.org.au.

References
1. The impact of myopia and high myopia: Report of the Joint World Health Organization – Brien Holden Vision Institute Global Scientific Meeting on Myopia. University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia. 16-18 March 2015.
2. Lin LL, Shih YF, Hsiao CK et al. Prevalence of myopia in Taiwanese school children: 1983 to 2000. Ann Acad Med Singapore. 2004; 33:27-33. PMID: 15008558.

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