Low vision guide for optoms launched

November 17 2009

A “ground-breaking” new book for optometrists with an interest in low vision has been launched by the College of Optometrists and The Guide Dogs for the Blind Association.

Low Vision – the Essential Guide for Optometrists, written by two optometrists, Barbara Ryan and Maggie Woodhouse, and an ophthalmologist, Anne Sinclair, emphasises the key role the optometrist can play in helping an individual come to terms with sight loss.

The book covers improving the patient experience, working with other services, low vision aids and supporting visually impaired children and people with a learning disability.

Ms Ryan said: “Through making simple changes to the way they manage patients with sight loss, the optometrist can make a real difference to someone’s life by bridging the gap between diagnosis and access to vital information and services.”

At the launch to 30 guests at the College, she highlighted that the advice was not onerous for optometrists to follow but the impact on a patient’s life was “immeasurable”.

The book will be available through the OT bookshop at www.otbookshop.co.uk