College of Optometrists

20 March 2012 Return to news listings

The College of Optometrists welcomed over 270 delegates to the south coast on 18 and 19 March for its annual conference and AGM, held at the Brighton Centre in the popular seaside town.

Delegates attended over 45 lectures, seminars and workshops spanning a wide range of topics. The extensive two-day programme, which offered up to 60 CET points, saw optometrists discuss hot industry topics such as AMD treatments, infective keratitis and independent prescribing. In addition, they took part in practical workshops about clinical skills including lacrimal syringing and gonioscopy, and business skills such as appraisals.

The Charter Lecture was delivered by Professor David Henson (pictured below), Professor of Ophthalmology & Vision Sciences in the School of Medicine at the University of Manchester. ‘Don’t pressure me about glaucoma’ reviewed the changing role of optometrists in the detection and management of glaucoma.

The conference programme also included refresher seminars - particularly relevant to optometrists who are returning to work after a break, or those who are newly qualified and would like to reassure themselves of their knowledge.

The highlight of the social programme was the gala dinner, held at the majestic Hilton Brighton Metropole. The black tie event with an ‘End of the pier’ theme provided valuable networking opportunities for guests, who enjoyed themselves at the seaside-type stalls and dancing to a live band.

Bryony Pawinska, Chief Executive of the College of Optometrists, commented, “A key aim of our annual conference is to provide optometrists with a prime opportunity to mingle with their peers and meet experts from the sector.  It was wonderful to meet so many members, and get such great feedback on the conference.

We work hard to provide members with the support and information they need to thrive in their professional careers, and it was great that they could do so in such an enjoyable setting – the lovely weather certainly helped!  I hope everyone who came to Brighton left inspired and positive about their continuing professional development.”    

The conference also featured an extensive trade exhibition at which delegates were able to meet industry representatives and learn about the latest in product and service development. Exhibitors included headline sponsors Topcon, CIBA Vision and THE VISION CARE INSTITUTE UK^® of Johnson & Johnson Medical.

Optometry Tomorrow 2013 will take place on 17 and 18 March in Nottingham. For more information and to stay up to date with the latest event news from the College, visit www.optometrytomorrow.org