The 56th Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Ophthalmologists (RANZCO) Congress once again proved to be the premier event for ophthalmology professionals in Australasia, and in amongst the action was Vision Hospital Group (VHG). Booth 104 was a hive of activity over the four days, and the presence of the full executive leadership team, including CEO Amanda Cranage, clearly signalled the Group’s commitment and leadership in ophthalmic care.
Engaging Where It Matters Most
Ms Cranage said VHG’s ongoing participation in RANZCO reflects a deep and long-standing commitment to supporting ophthalmology nationally.
“As the operator of 11 ophthalmic day hospitals – and the largest private ophthalmology provider in Australia through parent company Vision Eye Institute – we have a responsibility to engage meaningfully with the profession, share knowledge, support innovation, and contribute to the continuous development of clinical standards,” she said.
Importantly, RANZCO provides a rare opportunity to connect with surgeons outside the fast-paced theatre environment.
“Over 100 ophthalmologists operate across our facilities, so I always appreciate any chance to have deeper conversations about ways to further enhance clinical outcomes and the patient experience. Events like this remind me of how powerful collaboration can be in advancing eye health and why we do what we do,” she said.
Events like this remind me of how powerful collaboration can be in advancing eye health and why we do what we do
Focus in a Changing Landscape
With surgical volumes, technology expectations, and patient complexity on the rise, Ms Cranage believes VHG’s competitive advantage lies in three distinct areas: the strength of its talented teams, the depth of its clinical governance, and its proactive investment in technology and infrastructure.
“Ophthalmology is where our strength and expertise have always been. We are unwavering in our focus on surgeon satisfaction, clinical excellence, operational efficiency and an industry-leading patient experience,” she said.
That’s why attending the peak congress for VHG’s core business is essential, added Kylie Bennett, VHG National Director of Nursing and GM of RiverCity Private Hospital in Brisbane.
“Hospital groups must offer more than just bricks and mortar. RANZCO is invaluable for understanding what’s happening broadly across ophthalmology and at an individual level for doctors, whether they operate with us or not.
“Every conversation at RANZCO is a potential opportunity to enhance the experience for our surgeons, staff and patients,” she added.
Commitment to Workforce Development
VHG also sponsored the concurrent Australian Ophthalmic Nurses’ Association (AONA) conference.
“Similar to RANZCO, the AONA Conference allows us to stay abreast of what’s happening with the nursing side of the sector while continuing to highlight the growing role of ophthalmic nurses,’ said Ms Bennett.
“Nurses in this field must keep their knowledge current and manage complex peri-operative situations with confidence. AONA had some excellent sessions on offer, including presentations by two of our VMOs, Dr Tess Huynh and Dr Jason Cheng, and insights into opportunities for change improvement.”
Ms Bennett said the real highlight was when Gabriela Kalofonos, Director of Nursing at Forest Road Day Surgery in Sydney, was awarded life membership to AONA in recognition of her long-standing contribution as a volunteer committee member.
To learn more about Vision Hospital Group or arrange a confidential discussion about operating at one of the Group’s facilities, visit visionhospitalgroup.com.au.
