Kathy Oxtoby asks what optometrists need to know about antimicrobial resistance.
Once antibiotics were seen as a cure-all. Now, says England’s Chief Medical Officer (CMO) Professor Dame Sally Davies, there is the potential for a “post-antibiotic apocalypse”, and leading health experts say growing antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a threat “bigger than cancer”.
Optometrists are certainly not a cause of, or a significant contributor to, the problem of AMR. However, it is very important for optometrists, both those with and without independent prescribing (IP) qualifications, to be aware of the issues around AMR and the part that you can play in tackling the problem.
Sign in to continue
Not already a member of the College?
Start enjoying the benefits of College membership today. Take a look at what the College can offer you and view our membership categories and rates.
The College of Optometrists and the Optical Fees Negotiating Committee (OFNC) call on the government to make a long-term commitment to primary eye care in its NHS 10-Year Health Plan as part of the shift from hospital to community.