Eye surgery provider launches academy to strengthen links between optometry and ophthalmology

A new education academy designed for eye care professionals that aims to “bridge the gap between optometry and ophthalmology” has been launched by independent eye surgery provider OCL Vision.

The OCL Vision Academy, which ran its first events on 13 and 20 June, has been designed to run alongside the London-based business’ Shared Care Partnership Programme which aims to improve patient care and community choice.

The Academy will offer professional development webinars, as well as in-person events led by a range of UK ophthalmic surgeons.

All aspects of cataract, corneal and retinal eye health will be covered by the OCL Vision Academy. The educational platform will also feature an online Knowledge Base, available to Shared Care Partners, which allows them to search for topics they want to learn more about.

Speaking about the launch of the Academy, Allon Barsam, consultant ophthalmic surgeon and co-founder of OCL Vision, said that it would “further strengthen our relationship with optometrists,” continuing that he was “excited to be adding another benefit to our Shared Care Partnership Programme.”

He added: “Community care is more important than ever, as NHS hospital waiting lists are under significant pressure meaning that many eye patients are now relying on optometrists to avoid the difficulties with the NHS. We hope the OCL Vision Academy educational platform will be a useful education and development tool for optical professionals at every stage of their career.”