Please click here for pdf version
OPTOMETRISTS JOIN WAR ON SMOKING
This weekend Queensland optometrists will join the campaign against smoking related illness. 600 of them will attend their State congress, Queensland Vision 2008, at the Gold Coast Convention and Exhibition Centre and will receive training and information on how to help patients to quit smoking.
Optometrists Association Australia Queensland/NT Division President, Ms Shannon Pugh, said, “sadly people don’t seem to associate smoking with eye disease and eye disorders, whereas it is a fact that a raft of those conditions can be traced back to smoking.
“Smoking almost doubles the risk of certain types of age related macular degeneration, a condition that destroys one’s central vision. It also increases the risk of developing cataracts and has been shown to increase the pressure in the eye permanently damaging vision. This condition is commonly known as glaucoma.
“Graves Disease, also known as thyroid eye disease, is an unfortunate outcome of smoking. Mothers are urged not to smoke during pregnancy as it can result in newborns having Esotropia – inward turning eyes.
“Fortunately The Cancer Council Queensland has undertaken to help train optometrists in how to help and support their patients to give up smoking. The Council will deliver two lectures at this congress as well as providing information through an information display.
“Our goal is to get every one of the State’s 819 optometrists mobilised to guide patients through the process of quitting, thus improving the overall eye health of Queenslanders,” she concluded.
End. Saturday, 29 March 2008
For immediate release. Authorised by Greg Johnson, Executive Director, OAA Queensland/Northern Territory, media contact invited to 0414 783 343.
QUEENSLAND LEADS WAY IN INDIGENOUS EYE HEALTH
600 optometrists commence a congress on the Gold Coast today and Indigenous eye health will be firmly on the three-day agenda, thanks to the Queensland government.
Queensland Vision 2008 will welcome optometrists from every Australian State and Territory as well as New Zealand, the United States and the United Kingdom and they will learn of a unique Queensland eye health initiative aimed improving the lot of the State’s Indigenous citizens.
Queensland Health Minister, the Hon Stephen Robertson MP, has a passionate interest in the area having provided a grant to enable the Queensland Vision Initiative Inc (QVI Inc), a collaboration of over twenty eye health organisations, to undertake a scoping exercise into Indigenous eye health service delivery.
Optometrists Association Australia Queensland/NT Division convenes Queensland Vision 2008, which is held at the Gold Coast Convention and Exhibition Centre, and its President, Ms Shannon Pugh, said “the event represents our first major opportunity to highlight Indigenous eye health and to mobilise practitioners to work together to eliminate many of the causes.
“The most common eye problems for Indigenous Australians are refractive error (long and short sightedness), diabetic retinopathy and cataract. In some regions, trachoma remains a problem. Many of these eye conditions and diseases can be eliminated but to achieve that we need a well directed, integrated eye health workforce,” she concluded.
QVI Inc Project Officer, Ms Cassandra Koutouridis, will deliver the first day lecture “The Queensland Vision Initiative – making a real difference to Indigenous eye health” and survey delegates to isolate service delivery and frequency – two critical components of the project.
End. Friday, 28 March 2008
For immediate release. Authorised by Greg Johnson, Executive Director, OAA Queensland/NT, media contact invited to mobile 0414 783 343.
OPTOMETRISTS TARGET DEADLY CONTACT LENSES
600 optometrists will descend on the Gold Coast this weekend for Queensland Vision 2008, the annual congress of Optometrists Association Australia Queensland/NT Division.
One of the hot topics for conversation will be plano contact lenses which are variously known as “cosmetic contact lenses”, ”novelty contact lenses” or “coloured contact lenses. They are popular with youngsters, particularly females, as they allow them to “change” the colour of their eyes. They often come in the form of “animal eyes”.
The devices, which are sold at markets, food outlets, shows and even pharmacies, offer no visual benefit to the wearer and generally come without instruction.
As a result of the improper use of the devices and lack of training on hygiene, several young Australians and New Zealanders have recently suffered serious infection, vision loss and even blindness. Included in that number was a 13-yo Gold Coast girl who borrowed a friend’s lenses and developed a corneal abscess resulting in permanent sight loss in her left eye.
Optometrists Association President Ms Shannon Pugh said, “we have been lobbying Queensland Health for over eight years to introduce legislative change to protect our youngsters. Patients who wear corrective contact lenses must go through a strenuous program involving fitting and removal, and hygiene and disposal techniques before an optometrist will issue a prescription. It astounds me that plano contact lenses, made of the very same material as corrective lenses, can be let loose in the marketplace by unqualified people without providing training to wearers and without conscience”.
End. Sunday, 30 March 2008
For immediate release. Authorised by Greg Johnson, Executive Director, OAA Queensland/Northern Territory, media contact invited to 0414 783 343.
MARCH 2008
From 1 January 2008, optometrists accredited to prescribe under State or Territory legislation and approved as PBS prescribers can write prescriptions for pharmaceutical benefits. PBS medicines for prescribing by authorised optometrists are listed in the optometrist section of the Schedule of Pharmaceutical Benefits.
Information for optometrists on becoming a PBS prescriber is available on the Medicare Australia website at: www.medicareaustralia.gov.au
For further information on prescribing by optometrists under the PBS and RPBS, click here.
5501M Aciclovir, Eye ointment 30 mg per g (3%), 4.5 g (Zovirax)
5502N Carbomer 974, Ocular lubricating gel 3 mg per g (0.3%), single dose units 0.5 g, 30 (Poly Gel)
5504Q Carbomer 980, Eye drops 2 mg per g (0.2%), single dose units 0.6 mL, 30 (Viscotears)
5503P Carbomer 980, Ocular lubricating gel 2 mg per g (0.2%), 10 g (GelTears, PAA, Viscotears Liquid Gel)
5508X Carmellose sodium, Eye drops 10 mg per mL (1%), 15 mL (Refresh Liquigel)
5505R Carmellose sodium, Eye drops 10 mg per mL (1%), single dose units 0.4 mL, 30 (Celluvisc)
5509Y Carmellose sodium, Eye drops 2.5 mg per mL (0.25%), single dose units 0.6 mL, 24 (TheraTears)
5507W Carmellose sodium, Eye drops 5 mg per mL (0.5%), 15 mL (Refresh Tears Plus)
5506T Carmellose sodium, Eye drops 5 mg per mL (0.5%), single dose units 0.4 mL, 30 (Cellufresh)
5510B Carmellose sodium, Ocular lubricating gel 10 mg per mL (1%), single dose units 0.6 mL, 28 (TheraTears)
5512D Chloramphenicol, Eye drops 5 mg per mL (0.5%), 10 mL (Chloromycetin, Chlorsig)
5511C Chloramphenicol, Eye ointment 10 mg per g (1%), 4 g (Chloromycetin, Chlorsig)
5513E Fluorometholone, Eye drops 1 mg per mL (0.1%), 5 mL (Flucon, FML Liquifilm)
5514F Flurbiprofen sodium, Eye drops 300 micrograms per mL (0.03%), single dose units 0.4 mL, 5 (Ocufen)
5516H Hydrocortisone acetate, Eye ointment 10 mg per g (1%), 5 g (Hycor)
5515G Hydrocortisone acetate, Eye ointment 5 mg per g (0.5%), 5 g (Hycor)
5518K Hypromellose, Eye drops 3 mg per mL (0.3%), 15 mL (contains sodium perborate as preservative) (In a Wink Moisturising, Genteal)
5517J Hypromellose, Eye drops 5 mg per mL (0.5%), 15 mL (Isopto Tears, Methopt)
5519L Hypromellose with carbomer 980, Ocular lubricating gel 3 mg-2 mg per g (0.3%-0.2%), 10 g (HPMC PAA, Genteal gel)
5520M Hypromellose with dextran, Eye drops 3 mg-1 mg per mL (0.3%-0.1%), 15 mL (Poly-Tears, Tears Naturale)
5521N Hypromellose with dextran, Eye drops 3 mg-1 mg per mL (0.3%-0.1%), single dose units 0.4 mL, 28 (Bion Tears)
5523Q Paraffin, Compound eye ointment 3.5 g (Poly Visc, Duratears)
5522P Paraffin, Pack containing 2 tubes compound eye ointment 3.5 g (Ircal, Poly Visc, Lacri-Lube)
5524R Polyethylene glycol 400 with propylene glycol, Eye drops 4 mg-3 mg per mL (0.4%-0.3%), 15 mL (Systane)
5526W Polyvinyl alcohol, Eye drops 14 mg per mL (1.4%), 15 mL (PVA Tears, Liquifilm Tears)
5527X Polyvinyl alcohol, Eye drops 14 mg per mL (1.4%), 15 mL (contains sodium chlorite/hydrogen peroxide as preservative) (Vistil)
5525T Polyvinyl alcohol, Eye drops 30 mg per mL (3%), 15 mL (PVA Forte, Liquifilm Forte)
5528Y Polyvinyl alcohol, Eye drops 30 mg per mL (3%), 15 mL (contains sodium chlorite/hydrogen peroxide as preservative) (Vistil Forte)
5529B Sodium cromoglycate, Eye drops 20 mg per mL (2%), 10 mL (Cromolux, Opticrom)
5530C Sulfacetamide sodium, Eye drops 100 mg per mL (10%), 15 mL (Bleph 10)
Professor Carney retires
The school and the profession will be poorer for the December 2007 retirement of Head of School Professor Carney. This gentle and wise man has made a unique contribution to our wonderful profession. President Shannon Pugh presented him with a special gift at the 10 December Council/Board dinner meeting. If you haven’t had an opportunity to say farewell to Leo, make sure you get along to the 28-30 March Queensland Vision 2008 where he is delivering the “Noel Verney Memorial Lecture.”
Committees 2008
Council met on 10 December and resolved its committee structure for 2008, as follows:
- Centenary 2008 (celebration of 100 years of OAA Qld/NT), Greg Johnson, Chair
- Conduct (complaint resolution and awards determination), Kate Johnson (Chair), Dave Foresto
- Education (CPD and Queensland Vision ), Shannon Pugh (Chair), Henry Heron, Kate Johnson and Asha Mahasuria
- Forster Report (expansion of roles for optometrists), Simon Hurwood (Chair)
- Health Professional Networks (cooperation between professions and allied organisations), Gary Page (Chair), Dave Foresto
- Membership (branch meeting program) Asha Mahasuria (Chair), Dave Foresto
- National Council Simon Hurwood (National Councillor)
- Therapeutics (adoption of the Victorian and South Australian lists for Qld/NT members) Henry Heron (Chair), Gary Page, Shannon Pugh, Andrew Angeli (ex officio)
NOVEMBER 2007
UQDRIVE - University of Queensland Driver Retirement Initiative
Study supports older people who have stopped driving
Driving is a complex task. It can be affected by illness, injury or by growing older. Normal body changes such as decreased vision, slower reaction times and some medications can greatly affect an older individual’s capacity to drive.
Drivers 75 years or older need to have a medical certificate from their doctor to keep driving. Some medical conditions, such as diabetes, epilepsy or heart disease, might also require a medical certificate to keep driving.
Older people who retire from driving commonly experience feelings of grief, loss and isolation. Retirement from driving is an independent predictor of depression, reduced community engagement and a lower quality of life. “I still mourn for my car…I miss my independence…I miss being able to please myself” (Retired driver).
Retired drivers interviewed in a Queensland study identified strategies that help lead to a better outcome. Their advice to older drivers included:
Consider other transport options early – “I think I was ready for it because I’d been doing things differently for maybe 12 or 18 months”
Weigh it up – “Weigh up the pros and cons, because if you don’t do that you’re probably always going to have regrets”
Talk to key people – Talking about stopping driving with family, Doctors and health professionals will help the older driver consider all of their options.
If you have a patient who has recently retired from driving – either voluntarily or involuntarily - and they are aged over 65, the UQDRIVE group program may help them to stay independent and active in their community. The 6 week group program includes assistance for retired drivers to deal with their feelings of loss, embrace alternative transport options and maintain engagement with the community after stopping driving. The groups are free, and will be run by an Occupational Therapist as part of a three year research project funded by the National Health and Medical Research Council.
If you would like further information on the UQDRIVE groups, or would like to refer one of your clients, please contact Melody Webb on 3346 7487 or email m.webb3@uq.edu.au. (25 November)
Medicare Fee Rise
We are pleased to inform you that Medicare benefits for optometric services will rise from
1 November 2007 by approximately 2.2 per cent. The new benefits and their rebates are listed below.
The new benefits are:
Item |
Fee |
Medicare |
||||
10900 |
$64.15 |
$54.55 |
||||
10905 |
$64.15 |
$54.55 |
||||
10907 |
$32.10 |
$27.30 |
||||
10912 |
$64.15 |
$54.55 |
||||
10913 |
$64.15 |
$54.55 |
||||
10914 |
$64.15 |
$54.55 |
||||
10915 |
$64.15 |
$54.55 |
||||
10916 |
$32.10 |
$27.30 |
||||
10918 |
$32.10 |
$27.30 |
||||
10921 |
$159.05 |
$135.20 |
||||
10922 |
$159.05 |
$135.20 |
||||
10923 |
$159.05 |
$135.20 |
||||
10924 |
$200.75 |
$170.65 |
||||
Item |
Fee |
Medicare |
||||
10925 |
$159.05 |
$135.20 |
||||
10926 |
$159.05 |
$135.20 |
||||
10927 |
$200.75 |
$170.65 |
||||
10928 |
$159.05 |
$135.20 |
||||
10929 |
$200.75 |
$170.65 |
||||
10930 |
$159.05 |
$135.20 |
||||
10931 |
$22.35 |
$19.00 |
||||
10932 |
$11.15 |
$9.50 |
||||
10933 |
$7.45 |
$6.35 |
||||
10940 |
$61.20 |
$52.05 |
||||
10941 |
$36.90 |
$31.40 |
||||
10942 |
$32.10 |
|||||
10943 |
$32.10 |
$27.30 |
||||
The new version of “Medicare benefits for services by optometrists” will be mailed to optometrists in the next few days. In the meantime, the new optometric schedule can be found on the Association’s website www.optometrists.asn.au
Yours sincerely
JOE CHAKMAN
Executive Director
24 October 2007
The management and administration of the Spectacle Supply Scheme (SSS) is to be transferred from Health Service Districts to the Medical Aids Subsidy Scheme (MASS). Transition planning is underway with MASS to assume responsibility for the transfer effective 1 January 2008. During this transition period, there will be extensive consultation with all key stakeholders to facilitate a smooth transition process.During the transition process, a series of fact sheets will be added to this website to keep stakeholders informed of progress. As new procedures are developed, these will be included in the website.Matt Page has been appointed as the Senior Project Officer to coordinate the transition. Enquiries can be forwarded via email to Matthew_Page@health.qld.gov.au or by telephone on (07) 3250 8601 or 0438 543 721.
Unhealthy beauty habits put eye health at risk (21 August 2007)
Women are putting their eye health at risk because they are reluctant to part with out-of-date eye cosmetics, according to optometrists.
A UK study has found that one in four women are regularly using bacteria-infected make-up over four years old.
The study conducted by The College of Optometrists in Britain found that women are ignoring recommendations to discard eye make-up after six months, with 92 percent keeping mascara for longer than that. Almost two-thirds of the women surveyed admitted to using eye make-up that is over two years old.
Optometrists Association Australia, professional services manager, Ms. Shirley Loh says that while the research was conducted in Britain, the findings provide a timely reminder for Australian women.
“Eye make-up can be a haven for bacteria and unhygienic eye make up habits can lead to nasty eye infections,” says Ms. Loh.
“The research shows that women might not be aware of or are ignoring the use-by-dates given by make-up manufacturers. Eye make-up should not be used for longer than is specified and should be used by one person alone,” says Ms. Loh.
A quarter of the women surveyed had shared eye make-up with friends and family despite one in ten admitting they frequently suffered from an eye condition such as conjunctivitis.
“It’s easy for women to reduce their risk of eye infections simply by exercising a bit of care when it comes to their use of eye make-up,” says Ms. Loh.
OPTOMETRISTS ASSOCIATION AUSTRALIA
EYE MAKE-UP CHECKLIST
- Discard mascara after six months. Make-up brushes can hold bacteria, which increase your chance of infection.
- Don’t share your make-up. Sharing make-up can spread harmful bacteria so avoid using someone else’s.
- Avoid applying mascara on the move. Scratching the eye with a mascara wand is a common injury that can lead to an eye infection.
- Put contact lenses in prior to applying your make-up. Keeping your contact lenses clean is vital to avoid infection. It also makes it easier to see the make-up you’re applying, and prevents make-up getting underneath your lenses.
- Don’t apply eye make-up on the inside area of your eye. It can block the glands there, which can cause styes and dry eyes.
- Take your make up off at night. Eye make up can make its way into your eyes while you are sleeping.
- Clean your make up brushes regularly
- Avoid using your fingers to apply your make up. It can transfer harmful bacteria from your fingers to your eyes.
- Visit an optometrist regularly. Optometrists are trained to not only test vision, but to detect eye problems and treat infections as well.
For further information or to schedule an interview please call:
Rachel Chakman, OAA on 03 9663 6833 or 0412 787 349 or Robert Hilkes, OAA on 03 9663 6833 or 0413 338 144.
BIG W Vision Centre Set To Expand (20 July 2007)
BIG W plans to grow its network of optical centres after the successful launch of BIG W Vision Centres in Adelaide.
BIG W Vision Centres are an extension of the BIG W brand providing customers with a convenient and cost effective alternative to current optical providers.
The BIG W Vision Centre provides a full-service Optometry offering including on-site qualified Optometrists, dedicated and experienced dispensing staff as well as a full range of products including frames, lenses and contact lenses.
Optometrist Toh Ng from BIG W Vision Centre in Adelaide said “It’s a great place to work. All staff members are experienced and the equipment is top quality, no expense has been spared.”
With the planned growth of stores it is an exciting time for BIG W and extremely important to ensure the BIG W Vision Centres are staffed by highly skilled Optometrists and Dispensing staff.
“The Business Manager of the BIG W Vision Centre is an Optometrist so it’s a highly professional environment and allows me the freedom to provide quality eye care to patients,” explained Toh Ng.
The BIG W Vision Centres are developed to create the highest standards in working conditions including providing flexible work structures and competitive salaries.
The centres embrace the core values of BIG W including “Quality for less” as well as offering expert customer service.
The BIG W Vision Centres are attached to current BIG W stores to emphasise the strong commitment to quality and price, which is demonstrated in the quality range of frames and lenses the centres stock.
For information regarding our current and new BIG W Vision Centres please contact:
Amy King
Consumer Public Relations Manager
Woolworths Limited
P 02 8885 4322 | F 02 8888 4322 | M 0411 153 712
E amyking@woolworths.com.au
1 Woolworths Way Bella Vista, NSW 2153
PO Box 8000 Baulkham Hills, NSW 2153
Mail point: N2.A6
Johnson & Johnson Vision Care (JJVC), in conjunction with the Optometrist’s Association of Australia, is pleased to announce a new and exciting opportunity for Optometrists Association members to expand their current patient base, following the creation of the ‘Find an Optometrist’ facility on Australian online health information source, myDr.
The initiative is the first of its kind in Australia and is another step towards bringing recognition for optometrists in line with other essential healthcare professionals, such as GPs, specialists and pharmacists.
Helen Venturato, JJVC’s Professional Affairs Manager (Australia and New Zealand), sees the myDr search facility as a progressive move for the optometry industry. “JJVC is working hard to increase the profile and profitability of the Australian optometry industry. The myDr search will help to achieve this by offering patients easier access to their local optometrist”, Helen said.
Robert Hilkes, National Marketing Manager for the Optometrists Association, is excited about the new opportunity for members. “myDr has presented a wonderful opportunity for current members of the Optometrists Association to expand their relationships within their local community. The myDr search now provides prominence to our members on the fifth most visited consumer health and medical information website in Australia, with in excess of 250,000 unique users per month and an average visit lasting approximately eight minutes”, Robert said.
There will be no additional cost to Optometrists Association members. Information posted onto myDr will include a practice name, as well as basic contact and address details. There will also be the opportunity for people to click through from the myDr homepage to consumer eye health information posted on the Optometrists Association website, www.optometrists.asn.au, and to a ‘Find an Optometrist’ page within myDr.
myDr is an Australian healthcare website dedicated to providing consumers with the most comprehensive and relevant health information in Australia and includes searches for local healthcare professionals and a virtual Eye Health Centre. The myDr website can be found at www.mydr.com.au.
Federal Budget
A few items from the Federal Budget for 2007-08, announced by the Treasurer last night, will be of interest to members. After what seemed a never-ending review period, a significant increase in funding to the Visiting Optometrists Scheme (VOS) was announced. The Australian Government will provide $8.6 million over four years to implement a revised scheme. Previous annual funding for VOS was around $700,000.
2007 Annual Falls Forum please click here for registration form
You might have read that we are working with Queensland Health on a partnership agreement that will roll out a program to optometrists aimed at helping patients at risk of falls. The three key areas in vision are bi/multi focal spectacles, infrequent eye examinations and lengthy cataract surgery waiting lists. In opening QV2007 last Friday Minister Robertson commended the profession for its involvement in the partnership.
Anyway, on 7 June the 2007 Annual Falls Prevention Forum is on at PA and optometrists are invited. I'll be there, registration is free, please let me know if you can make it and I'll get you registered. Alternatively a registration form is attached.
Linking CPD with registration as an optometrist (21/03/07)
In 2006 the Optometrists Board of Queensland resolved to link CPD compliance with registration as an optometrist and 1 July 2007 was the proposed commencement date. Board Chair Colin Waldron presented on this at several OAA meetings last year, including QV, and coverage was provided throughout the year in “SEE.” It is thought that each December the Board will ask the OAA for a list of non-compliant optometrists and a "please explain" will be sent to them from the Board. Mr Waldron mentioned recently that slowness in the legislation unit might mean that the commencement date is later than 1 July. At this point the OAA is not aware of a new commencement date, if any, or if the arrangements will be retrospective to 1 July 2007 after the legislation goes through.
Irrespective of the timing of the Board's actions, the OAA's position is unchanged and that is that CPD compliance is mandatory for members and non-compliance results in a higher professional indemnity insurance excess and non-publication of the member's details on the OAA website. The Queensland/NT Division already has a very high compliance rate.
Indemnity Insurance Policy Renewal (06/03/07)
For your reference, our professional indemnity insurance policy for members has been renewed with UMP. A copy of the 2007-2008 policy & schedule is available for download from the member section of our website at: www.optometrists.asn.au/information/indemnityinsurance
The trial will entail a series of seminars and focus groups for optometrists and officers will present small group electives at QV etc and provide editorial for "SEE" and our website. The areas to be targeted are bi/multi focal lenses, infrequent eye examinations and cataract waiting lists. We see this as a very exciting development. From memory one in three persons over 65 will have a fall in the next twelve months and maybe optometry can play a part in reducing that.
Simon Hurwood gets EXTRA coverage(5/3/07)
Simon Hurwood worked with Extra's Michelle Cannon and Sandra to produce a program on the cost of spectecals.
Simon told OAA" I told her that all optometrists sell budget frames, you just have to ask. I mentioned the CSS (Community Spectacle Scheme) which we initiated to help optometrists stock a range of budget frames to help the needy. I mentioned Queensland Health's free Spectacle Supply Scheme (brochure attached) under which most pension/health/seniors cardholders could access free spectacles. Eligible cardholders can consult any optometrist who will then conduct the eye examination and either order the spectacles him/herself if they are in the SSS or refer to another SSS member optometrist if they are not. Finally, I mentioned to you that spectacles are not a regular repeat purchase and in most cases they have an extended life so in assessing cost it is worth noting that it is a once every (5 years??) expense."
General Practice and Optometrists sign MOU
The Australian General Practice Network (AGPN) and the Optometrists Association of Australia (OAA) today signed a Memorandum of Understanding representing an agreement to strengthen the relationship between the two organisations ensuring Australians receive the best possible primary eye care. please click here for the full document
Warning on non-prescription cosmetic contact lenses
click here for the press release from the Honourable Chris Pearce Parliamentary Secretary to the Treasurer (14/02/07) Please click here for the media release from OAA President Mr Ian Bluntish.
Wait times for Seeing Eye Dogs Radically Reduced (released 02/02/07)
Seeing Eye Dogs Australia (SEDA) has announced that it has managed to cut the waiting list for one of their Seeing Eye Dogs from two years to as little as three months, in some cases. The massive reduction in waiting time comes as a result of extensive improvements to SEDA’s breeding and training processes over the last four years.
The news is expected to be welcomed by those people with vision impairment on long waiting lists with other organisations around Australia and significant news to the estimated 2,000 people who could use a dog if one was available.
One of the unique elements to SEDA’s approach is that training is individually designed to fit the need of each SEDA client – matching the breed, temperament and ability of each dog to suit their new owners. SEDA also offers clients the option of training in either their own homes or at an external residential training centre.
T
Another cosmetic contact lens tragedy
New Zealand Eye specialists are calling for greater restrictions on the sale of novelty contact lenses after they destroyed a man's cornea - the first case of its kind in this country.
The 24-year-old from Auckland lost the sight in one eye after it became infected from wearing a pair of coloured contact lenses.
He wore the lenses for fun and did not need contact lenses or glasses before the incident.
"The infection had basically eaten away at his whole cornea," said corneal specialist Dr Trevor Gray. "It's horrible. Here's somebody in his early 20s who is basically never going to see out of that eye again."
The young man had borrowed the fashion lenses from a friend for a party.
Unaware of their proper usage, he wore them for three consecutive days. An infection developed and by the time he sought medical attention the infection had already eaten away at his cornea, leaving a perforation.
Two emergency corneal transplants were done as "hot grafts" (transplanting in the presence of inflammation and infection), but the man had failed to follow instructions to minimise the risk of rejection.
"He's now got an opaque cornea that he can't see out of at all, and has this big white-looking eye like they've got in science fiction movies," said Dr Gray.
But his other eye is fine.
"It's actually a perfect eye. It doesn't need any glasses, it doesn't need any contact lenses. He only wore this for fun at a party. This is what's so heartbreaking."
The fashion contact lenses come in a variety of colours and designs and give wearers a dramatic new look such as cat's eyes or lenses featuring a flag.
The Medicines Regulations Act (1984) governs prescription contact lenses, but does not apply to fashion lenses. As these lenses have no optical power, they are not defined as a medical device, and are easily available from flea markets, clothing shops, novelty stores and through the internet.
Dr Gray, who is president of the Cornea and Contact Lens Society, said the law required optometrists and ophthalmologists to ensure someone getting prescription contact lenses learned their proper use and care.
The "illogical technicality" that did not require the same of fashion contact lenses was a worry, he said. People buying fashion lenses did not necessarily get advice on proper use. A $60 pair of fashion lenses which the Herald bought from a party accessory store came with a lens case and cleaning solution - and comprehensive instructions.
Dr Gray had no problem with this sample, but those sold without instructions concerned him.
Some people shared lenses, putting them at risk of transferring conjunctivitis or hepatitis.
Martin Blandford, owner of fashion contact lens seller New Eyes, said people could abuse them whether they got them from an optometrist or from any other store.
Queensland Health Minister, the Hon Stephen Robertson MP, is currently investigating the options available to him to remove this threat to public health.
Health Minister to Open Queensland Vision 2007
Queensland Health Minister the Honourable Stephen Robertson MP has agreed to open the 12-15 April 2007 Queensland Vision congress at the Brisbane Convention and Exhibition Centre. The opening will take place at 10:00 am on the 13th of April.
Optometrist on Today Show and in Papers
Robert Hilkes our National Marketing Manager reports that, " We are 99 percent confident that NSW member Narelle Hine will be on the 'Today' show tomorrow morning at 7.20am. The show is national, on channel 9 and live from the Sydney studio. It also looks like we'll be in 'MX' tomorrow in Melbourne, a bit like the Herald Sun, but its handed out to commuters on public transport to and from the CBD."
December 2006
Holiday Closure
Optometry House will be closed from 25 December to 1 January inclusive. We apologise for any inconvenience. Should there be any urgent matters please contact Greg on 0414 783 343 or greg@optomsqld.com
2006/2007 Council Committees
Centenary 2008 (celebration of the Division’s 100th anniversary) – Peter Montgomery (Chair)
Conduct (complaint resolution and award determinations) – Kate Johnson (Chair) and Dave Foresto
Driver’s Vision (goal of compulsory vision testing for drivers) – Nancy Atkinson (Chair)
Education (CPD delivery including Queensland Vision) – Shannon Pugh (Chair), Henry Heron, Kate Johnson and Asha Mahasuria
Forster Report (implementation of the recommendations on optometry) – Simon Hurwood (Chair)
Membership (convening leader meetings) Asha Mahasuria (chair), Dave Foresto
2006/2007 Council Elected
Toowoomba optometrist Ms Shannon Pugh was again elected President of the Division at the AGM on Saturday, 4 November. She will be joined by Mr Henry Heron (Vice-President) Mrs Nancy Atkinson (Treasurer), and Councillors, Mr Dave Foresto, Mr Simon Hurwood, Mrs Kate Johnson, Mrs Asha Mahasuriaand Mr Peter Montgomery.
John Mountford Optometrist of the Year
Mr John Mountford received the prestigious Hon Bill Hayden AC Queensland Optometrist of the Year award at the 4 November President's Graduands Ball and Annual Awards. John has dedicated his professional life to contact lens wear. His name has become synonymous with orthokeratology and has authored a book on this subject. He has also developed a new contact lens design currently in use by optometrists globally. As a speaker on demand from the world wide eye specialist community he has fostered goodwill between the various professions.
Tess Pollock, inaugural Peter J Montgomery Award for Social Justice recipient
The inaugural recipient of the Peter J Montgomery Award for Social Justice was named at the 4 November OAA Qld/NT President’s Graduands Ball and Annual Awards. Darwin optometrist Tess Pollock received the award and a cheque for $2,500 to assist her in her worthwhile endeavours in the top end. Tess has a long history of providing service to remote and indigenous communities. The award was presented by Mr John Mountford, on behalf of Peter, and received by new OAA Qld/NT Councillor, and NT-based optometrist, Asha Mahasuria. The grant is funded by the Vision Group as part of its commitment to optometry.
OPTOMETRY HOUSE EXPANDS
Council recently purchased an adjacent, Victorian-style house at 58 St Pauls Terrace, Spring Hill. The house is part of the body corporate to which Optometry House belongs. Two other titles in the body corporate are the adjoining delicatessen and one-bedroom apartment and they are owned by the operators of the delicatessen and an investor.
The Division has enjoyed many years of prosperity courtesy of good outcomes from endeavours including Queensland Vision. It has not increased its portion of member’s fees since 1 July 2000. Council took the view that it would be prudent to plan now for future generations of optometrists and council. The house has been rented back to the former owners for a two-year period with three, one-year options. It might be the case that a future council chooses to rezone the property as commercial.
Optometry House was purchased in 2001 for $392,000 and was recently valued at $1,075,000.
Members who would like to inspect the new property are invited to contact me either on telephone 07 3839 4411 or alternatively by email: greg@optomsqld.com
QUEENSLAND STATE ELECTION, 9 SEPTEMBER 2006
The Division will again be active in the lead up to the Queensland election, writing to each sitting member and any candidates that have a chance of winning a seat. Candidates will be invited to respond to five issues and those responses will be communicated to members and patients.
On 25 April 2003 then Health Minister The Hon Wendy Edmond MP announced that optometrists could prescribe a list of eye drops consistent with the list granted to Victorian optometrists in 1999. Three years later that list has not been delivered and optometrists are still unable to treat many diseases including glaucoma.
Peter Forster’s 30 September 2005 Report made some overdue recommendations about the better utilisation of optometrists in the public health system. Those recommendations included the use of therapeutic eye drops, and diagnosing, triaging and treating public patients in private practice. To date none of these recommendations have been adopted.
To legally acquire contact lenses for the correction of vision deficiency in Queensland, a patient must obtain a prescription from an optometrist, or other eye health professional. “Prescription” is more than just a piece of paper. It is effectively a contract between optometrist and patient stating that both confirm that the patient has been properly trained to insert and remove the devices, to hygienically care for them and to dispose of them at the appropriate time. Plano contact lenses (also known as cosmetic, coloured and novelty) are not subject to a prescription. They are sold at shows, markets, in food stores and, sadly, by pharmacies. Wearers do not receive instruction about the devices, caring for them or disposal. These items are popular with young females who swap them at parties. There are local, interstate and overseas examples of youngsters suffering serious infection and blindness from these devices. We receive at least one complaint per day from our members and wearers. We have placed several submissions before government for the inclusion of plano lenses under the definition of prescription contact lenses.
Drivers in Queensland do not need to satisfy Queensland Transport that they can see. There are no tests. We contend that all drivers should prove that their vision is sufficient to enable them to drive safely. We have submitted to Queensland Transport that at the very least all drivers should have to produce documentary evidence from an eye care professional that their vision is of sufficient standard.
The Queensland Vision Initiative was established three years ago by twenty-seven organisations, including ours. It seeks to inform the public about eye disease and conditions and the need for regular eye examinations. It also seeks to establish referral pathways so that patients can get the appropriate treatment at the appropriate time. It employs a part-time project officer and is self funded by a handful of community and charitable organisations including ours. For the Initiative to achieve its aims it needs to embark on a mass media campaign similar those used for smoking cessation, heart disease and obesity. We seek government funding for such a campaign.
23 MORE FOR POST GRADUATE THERAPEUTICS CERTIFICATE
23 more optometrists commenced study on 4 August 2006 in QUT’s (third) Graduate Certificate in Ocular Therapeutics. Students include President Shannon Pugh, Councillor Russell Cooper, Council aspirant David Foresto and retired Councillor Bill Watson. Students can anticipate three demanding, four-day campus periods followed by an examination then an extended period of clinical placement before final exams. Over 100 optometrists have thus far enrolled in the courses and some 60 have graduated and are safely prescribing 31 eye medications. Four fortunate students will each benefit from recently announced industry scholarships of $2,000. Course fees are almost $7,000 per student.
NOVELTY CONTACT LENS PRODUCES VISUAL LOSS
” Researchers at the Gold Coast Hospital in Queensland, Australia report the case of a patient who developed a corneal abscess after wearing plano coloured contact lenses. A 13-year-old girl with no significant medical history was referred to for management of a left corneal abscess. She had borrowed her friend’s plano coloured contact lenses the preceding weekend and presented to her general practitioner with a red, painful, left eye. Her community ophthalmologist prescribed topical chloramphenicol. She was referred to the Gold Coast Hospital 24 hours later with deteriorating visual acuity, increasing pain and purulent ocular discharge.
”Upon admission, the patient’s visual acuity in the left eye was light perception. Slit lamp exam revealed a large, central, necrotic corneal abscess and hypopyon. Corneal scrapings and the patient’s contact lens case were submitted for microscopy, Gram stain and bacterial, fungal and viral culture. The authors prescribed fortified gentamicin, cephalothin and oral ciprofloxacin. Testing isolated Pseudomonas aeruginosa 48 hours after admission. Clinicians then changed treatment therapy to gentamicin and tobramycin. The patient’s symptoms abated and the ulcer reepithelialised after scraping. She was discharged after three weeks with marked corneal thinning, dense residual scarring and limited visual acuity (to count fingers at 30cm).
Li YC, Zeldovich A, Chua BJ, et al. Hazardous contact: a case of visual loss following Pseudmonas keratitis from novelty contact lens wear. Med J Aust. 2006 Aug 7;185(3):173-4.”
QUEENSLAND VISION 2007 “EARLY” LAUNCH
2007 will be a busy year in continuing professional development terms, and so we’ve taken an early opportunity to promote Queensland Vision 2007. The interim program is a wonderful 53 CPD point presentation from leading ophthalmologists, optometrists and other professionals. The 8-page, full colour program will be officially launched on Saturday, 4 November at the annual “President’s Graduands Ball and Annual Awards” and more lectures and small group electives will be added.
The Brisbane Convention and Exhibition Centre, at the corner of Merivale and Glenelg Streets, is the venue for QV and sessions will be held from Thursday, 12 April to Sunday, 15 April 2007. Presenters include Associate Professor Jan Lovie-Kitchin, Dr Art Epstein (proudly sponsored by Alcon Australia), Dr Stephen Godfrey, Dr Diane Hartley, Professor Lawrie Hirst, Dr Lee Lenton, Dr Paul Ng, Mr Paul Brand, Mr Pat Gerry, Mr Leo Hartley, Mr Bob Lees, Mr Marcus Kaye, Mr Gary Page, Mr Mark Roth, Mr David Stephensen, Ms Lesley Vedelago, Ms Pauline Powell and dermatologist Dr Perry Wilson.
OPTOMETRISTS ASSOCIATION AUSTRALIA QUEENSLAND/NT DIVISION POSITION ON THERAPEUTIC EYE DROPS
OAA PRACTICE EXPO 2006!
Employers, students and optometrists seeking employment are urged to be in Brisbane on Tuesday, 18 July 2006 for the “OAA Practice Expo.”
To put it bluntly, the goal of the Expo is to get students jobs - particularly jobs outside major capitals and into regional Australia! One hundred students from QUT School of Optometry’s third and fourth years will be in attendance and will be joined by an estimated fifty employers, a similar number of rank and file optometrists and up to thirty trade companies.
QUT students have been urged by the Division to defer making employment decisions for 2007 until the Expo.
This year’s Expo will be held at the magnificent Rydges Southbank Hotel with its panoramic views of the city and the Brisbane River. Date is Tuesday, 18 July 2006.
A stimulating education program has been put together for the benefit of all attendees and CPD points apply. Supper and drinks will be served. There is no charge for employers, students and members and a small exhibition charge applies for trade exhibitors.
This is the program:
Three years out, what’s it all about? - Mrs Kate Johnson, Optometrist, Pat Gerry Optometrist Brisbane
Experience the difference - Ms Cheryl Nichols, Human Resources Manager, Optometry Group, OPSM
Cover yourself in glory, and insurance! Ms Heather Dhuna, Risk Insurance Adviser and Ms Gabrielle Baumber, Business Manager, Guild Insurance
Attending employers are urged to contact OAA Qld/NT Executive Director Greg Johnson at the earliest opportunity with contact details and locations where staff are required for 2007. This information, plus like information from students seeking employment, will be collated and presented in booklet form on the evening. Students will be encouraged to visit every employer during the day/evening and a passport system, with lots of great prizes, will be in place to achieve maximum participation.
Queensland Eye Centre Lectures 2006
PETER MONTGOMERY TESTIMONIAL DINNER - Sat 27th May 2006
Gold Coast optometrist Peter Montgomery has dedicated his working life to his patients and profession.
He has served his profession with distinction and has led it as OAA Queensland/NT Divisional President, Divisional Councillor, National Councillor and National Treasurer. He has experienced all modes of optometric practice and has worked in co-management with some of Queensland's finest ophthalmologists.
Peter Montgomery has a reputation as a gentleman and is respected by all who meet him. He is kind and caring and a mentor to those who choose optometry as their career.
Sadly, Peter has been diagnosed with a progressively debilitating neurological disease and has already ceased practice at his beloved Broadbeach rooms. The future is not bright for Peter and Sue as they attempt to deal with mobility issues, medical expenses and absolute loss of income. Peter will need lots of care, lots of equipment and significant structural changes to his home.
We are aware that many ophthalmologists and optometrists throughout Australia wish to make a contribution to improving Peter’s quality of life and so we have resolved to convene the “Peter Montgomery Testimonial Dinner ” at the Southport Golf Club, Slayter Avenue, Southport Queensland on Saturday, 27 May 2006 commencing at 7.00pm.
The dinner will be a celebration of Peter’s wonderful life and presents an opportunity for old friends and new to say hello. There will be entertainment and fundraising endeavours, (courtesy of our friends at the Royal Blind Foundation), and ABC television personality Mr Andrew Lofthouse has kindly volunteered his services as Master of Ceremonies.
If you know Peter or know of his reputation please set aside Saturday, 27 May to attend his dinner. Special accommodation rates have been negotiated at the nearby Marriott Surfers Paradise Resort. All Australian and New Zealand optometrists and ophthalmologists will shortly receive an invitation to attend, and "SEE" and "Australian Optometry" will promote the event. Email greg@optomsqld.com for further information or telephone 07 3839 4411.
QUEENSLAND ROAD SAFETY SUMMIT
On 20 February 2006 OAA Queensland/NT put a submission to the “Road Safety Summit” to make vision testing for drivers and motorcycle riders compulsory. The Summit was convened following a tragic holiday period, concluding a year in which 329 Queenslanders died on our roads. OAA Queensland/NT contends that some of the citizens lost may have had poor vision. Our submission requests:
- Licence renewal should occur every five years until the age of seventy, three yearly from age seventy and then annually from age eighty.
- Persons applying for a new licence or licence renewal should be required to produce a certificate, which is not more than 6 months old, from an eye health professional stating that their vision meets the current requirements for driving.
- This certificate should make provision for the eye health professional to recommend a conditional licence or to recommend more regular visual assessments.
- Eye health professionals should be assisted in the task of advising drivers to surrender their licence with clear, concise and easy-to-read resources on 1. Visual standards for driving; 2. Patients’ obligations to self-report; 3. Practitioners’ indemnity from civil action for reporting patients who are unfit to drive; 4. Queensland Transport processes for notification; 5. Options for conditional licenses; 6. Strategies for safer road use; 7. Available assistance, including, other professional services that may assist the driver and options for decreased reliance on driving. Material on safe driving should regularly promote the importance of best possible vision for safe driving.
SIGHT FOR SORE EYES
"Sights for Sore Eyes" Madeleine Tiller talks to two health experts who say the 'no hat, no play' rule in most playgrounds just doesn't go far enough.
SPECTACLE SUPPLY SCHEME (SSS) UPDATE
As part of the recent reorganisation in Queensland Health, the oversight of the SSS has been transferred from the renamed Statewide Health Services Purchasing and Logistics Branch to the Policy and Legislation Branch. Madonna Cuthbert (Senior Director, Policy and Legislation Branch), will be the key contact for issues relating to the Scheme within Queensland Health centrally.
The Health Economist, appointed by Queensland Health following the release of the Action Plan: Building a Better Health Service for Queensland in October 2005, is in the process for examining components of a number of Schemes including spectacles, patient travel and medical aids. The review is anticipated to take approximately 3 months.
DRIVER LICENCE TESTING REVIEW GO SLOW
Queensland Transport (QT) is continuing to investigate the issue of driver vision testing requirements, and a policy determination is expected in early 2006. The Division will be informed of the outcomes once this process is completed.
TAXI SUBSIDY SCHEME RUN-AROUND
Advice from Queensland Transport (QT) is that regarding the ability of optometrists to provide medical information to assess category three applicants for the Taxi Subsidy Scheme, the matter was referred to Queensland Health (QH) for advice. QT does not employ health care professionals and relies heavily on advice from QH on these types of issues. In this instance, QH recommended that the current arrangement not be varied.
Indeed advice was given by Dr Russell Bach, Queensland Chair of RANZCO.