AOP member survey 2014

The Association of Optometrists (AOP) recently undertook a comprehensive membership  survey to identify the changing needs of members. The research, including quantitative and qualitative methods, measured perceptions of the AOP. The survey response rate was well above average, with 31% of members who were invited to respond to the research completing the online survey.

AOP Chief Executive, Henrietta Alderman, said: “I would like to thank all our members who took part in the survey. We have listened to what you have said and will respond to your needs based on the feedback. The research has shown that there are a lot of things we’re doing right. We will build on this. But you have also indicated where and how we can support you more in your career and on professional issues. The excellent response provides a strong mandate for our approach going forward.”

The research revealed that eight out of ten members rated the AOP as ‘excellent’ or ‘good’. 84% of members responded that AOP membership is good value for money. The top five words used to describe the AOP were: ‘helpful’, ‘informative’, ‘representative’, ‘trusted’ and ‘approachable’.

Key reasons for joining the AOP included the in-house legal services, medical malpractice insurance and clinical support. The Association’s continuing education and training (CET) programme was highly rated, along with the AOP’s flagship journal, Optometry Today.

The top concerns of members in regards to the profession included financial pressure compromising clinical standards, free/discounted private sight tests and a lack of awareness of good quality eye health. A large number of members already benefit from the AOP’s CET but commented that they would like more choice and regional meetings. In response to this, the Association has developed its programme of regional peer review and legal roadshows around the UK.

Ends

For more information, please contact Anne Grenyer, Communications and Marketing Manager at the Association of Optometrists, [email protected] or telephone 020 7549 2063.

Notes to Editors

Association of Optometrists

Formed in 1946, the Association of Optometrists (AOP) is the only organisation that represents both optometry as a profession and the views of individual optometrists. Its core purpose is to provide unrivalled support enabling professionals to deliver high quality eye care with confidence. With nearly 14,000 members, the AOP represents and promotes the interests of its members to stakeholders in the UK and Europe. As part of the Optical Confederation, the AOP works closely with other optical bodies to lobby national decision makers on issues related to the eye health agenda.