ABDO releases white paper on children’s vision

The Association of British Dispensing Opticians (ABDO) has published a new white paper by Dr Alicia Thompson outlining best practice in dispensing spectacles to children.

A statement from ABDO highlighted that Advancing paediatric vision care: evidence-based insights and best practices for dispensing spectacles to children combines the latest research and evidence-based practice to guide optical professionals in delivering “optimal visual outcomes” for young patients.

The ABDO statement added that the white paper also aims to assist frame producers and designers in providing their product for this market.

ABDO research director and white paper author, Dr Alicia Thompson, highlighted that children’s vision is foundational to learning, social development and long-term wellbeing.

“Dispensing spectacles to children remains one of the most rewarding, complex, challenging, and yet, at times, underestimated areas of primary eye care practice,” she said.

“I am hopeful this paper has taken a decisive step toward addressing this complexity in a comprehensive, evidence-based resource that highlights the importance of dispensing effectively to our youngest patients and showcases the extensive knowledge and skills of dispensing opticians,” Thompson shared.

Alongside the white paper, ABDO has produced a leaflet for parents and caregivers that can be shared in practice. The leaflet offers advice and guidance on caring for children’s vision.

ABDO chief executive, Alistair Bridge, noted that the white paper explains the complexity involved in dispensing spectacles to children as well as highlighting the expertise that dispensing opticians bring to this area of practice.

“As the professional body for dispensing opticians in the UK, we are proud to showcase the excellent patient care which our members provide and the evidence on which this is based,” he said.

Specsavers head of dispensing advancement, Kirsteen Newman, welcomed the publication of the report.

“Paediatric dispensing is a specialist area of practice, and it’s encouraging to see this new paper from ABDO reinforcing that important message,” she said.

Newman highlighted that dispensing opticians within Specsavers focus on providing frames specifically tailored to the individual needs of young patients.

“We know that successful outcomes go beyond the prescription alone – fit, comfort, durability and, crucially, ensuring children are happy to wear their glasses every day are all essential,” she observed.

“Expert dispensing opticians, as part of multi-disciplinary teams in community practices, are an invaluable part of serving this group of patients,” Newman emphasised.