College of Optometrists launches new animation and poster explaining the role of the optometrist

The College of Optometrists has launched two new member-only resources to help members in the promotion of National Eye Health Week 2019. The College has developed a short animation that explains the role of the optometrist, and a poster outlining which professionals a patient is likely to encounter during a visit to an optometric practice. College members can download both resources from the website and can share and use them online and in practice. 

Clinical Adviser for the College of Optometrists, Daniel Hardiman-McCartney FCOptom says: “We are excited to share these two resources with our members for National Eye Health Week and beyond to help explain the expertise they can provide to patients. We know there is often confusion related to the term ‘optometrist’ and patients may not know which eye specialist to visit when they have a problem with their eyes or vision. We hope that these resources can help build awareness of the term optometrist, and in turn, work to encourage members of the public to keep their eyes healthy. At the College, we will be launching our own consumer-facing campaign during National Eye Health Week, with the aim of increasing awareness of the role of the optometrist.”

Members wishing to embed the animation in their practice website can fill in a short form on the website, and the poster can be downloaded and printed from the same page from 29 August. 

ENDS

Notes to Editors

1. The College is the professional body for optometry. We qualify the profession and deliver the guidance and training to ensure optometrists provide the best possible care. We promote excellence through the College’s affixes, by building the evidence base for optometry, and raising awareness of the profession with the public, commissioners, and health care professionals.