New BCLA certificate aims to boost clinical confidence in presbyopia

New BCLA certificate aims to boost clinical confidence in presbyopia

Eye care professionals can gain a comprehensive overview of the theoretical foundations and clinical application of the BCLA CLEAR™ Presbyopia report series thanks to a newly launched certificate.

The Certificate in Presbyopia will explore evidence-based principles, emerging technologies, and best practices in the management of presbyopia.

The new course allows BCLA members to gain CPD credits while working towards a certificate and can also count towards BCLA Fellowship.

The certificate features five main learning objectives:

• Understand the definition of presbyopia, its global prevalence, and its impact on visual function, quality of life, and clinical workload
• Recognise the clinical signs and symptoms of presbyopia and apply appropriate diagnostic techniques to assess near vision function and accommodative status
• Compare and contrast the available spectacle and contact lens options for presbyopic correction, and identify patient-specific factors influencing their selection and success
• Describe the principles, indications, and limitations of corneal-based surgical interventions for presbyopia, including inlays and laser approaches
• Explore the role of scleral modifications and pharmacological agents in the management of presbyopia, including mechanisms of action and clinical considerations

Brad Parkes, chief executive of the BCLA, said: “We are always keen to help our members improve their clinical expertise which in turn enhances the patient experience; the Certificate in Presbyopia does exactly that.

“This new course is the latest addition to the suite of learning resources available to our members, following on from the success of other certificates in myopia management, dry eye disease and the fundamentals of contact lenses which have been completed by hundreds of eye care professionals.

“The certificate will allow eye care professionals to master the full presbyopia journey: from diagnosis to the latest management strategies, while boosting clinical confidence in managing ageing vision.

“By completing this certificate, BCLA members will have explored tailored presbyopic solutions while learning how to choose and apply the right spectacles, contact lenses, surgical or pharmaceutical options for patients, proving them with the best possible service.”

The certificate will be split into two parts, the first of which will consist of online lectures and MCQs and a second part featuring an interactive element such as a workshop or peer review session.

The course will be available to all full members of the BCLA, inclusive of their membership. There will also be an Early Careers Course for those starting out in their optical career journey – again inclusive of their membership.

If you are not a full member of the BCLA and would like to complete this course, you can join the BCLA online at www.bcla.org.uk. Alternatively, you can join or upgrade your existing membership subscription by contacting membership@bcla.org.uk