Specsavers is continuing the rollout of its Ophthalmologist Local Education and Engagement Program (OLEEP) in 2020, following the success of the 2019 program, which has led to positive results and measurable improvements in patient outcomes.

In 2019, there were 26 OLEEP events held across Australia and New Zealand, involving 135 Specsavers stores, 253 optometrists and 34 ophthalmologists.

The program, a collaboration between RANZCO and Specsavers, gives Specsavers optometrists the opportunity to attend a series of face-to-face CPD workshops delivered by local RANZCO ophthalmologists to improve their ability to detect glaucoma in patients, and provide additional rigour around clinical decision making and referrals for specialist assessment. The program also aims to build stronger professional relationships between optometrists and ophthalmologists.

The program is just one activity that forms part of Specsavers Transforming Eye Health Strategy.

Specsavers Optometry Development Consultant, Dr Joe Paul said, “It is well documented that approximately half of all patients with glaucoma are undiagnosed through traditional optical testing.

“Data from Specsavers 2019 Eye Health Report showed that using OCT as part of standard patient care at Specsavers has enabled our optometrists to detect glaucoma at a rate close to prevalence. The OLEEP program continues to build on their knowledge of the RANZCO referral guidelines and improve their clinical practice with the guidance support of ophthalmologists.”

Last year, stores that participated in the OLEEP program showed significant improvements in clinical outcomes and glaucoma detection, with referral rates up 15 per cent, or approximately 2,080 additional glaucoma referrals.

Specsavers will continue to build on the success of 2019 by hosting a series of OLEEP sessions on glaucoma and diabetic retinopathy throughout 2020, beginning with a session held at Specsavers Support Office on February 20.

To find out more about the OLEEP program or how your store can participate email anz.oleep@specsavers.com.