Optometry experts gathered at the University of Huddersfield as part of an event designed to support eyecare professionals and their continuing development.
Organised by campus-based University Valli Opticians the annual conference included a programme of workshops, lectures and networking opportunities helping those attending to stay at the forefront of the industry.
The clinic itself is a collaboration between Valli, an award-winning provider of eye care services and the Department of Optometry at the University of Huddersfield.
It offers optometry students at Huddersfield real-life experience as part of their clinical development and is believed to be the first of its kind in optometry education in the UK.
Head of Optometry at the University of Huddersfield, Prof John Siderov was among the speakers at the conference, which is now in its second year. His lecture provided a case analysis on managing common problems with children’s binocular vision.
Prof Siderov said: “Now in its second year, this annual event brings together local optical professionals and key industry partners to the University of Huddersfield, to share clinical expertise and support business development.
“It was pleasing to receive positive feedback about the event from both the participants and the sponsors and exhibitors. We look forward to continuing to support educational activities that support the development of optometry.”
There was a total of 10 educational sessions throughout the day-long event, which all offered eyecare professionals points towards their continuing professional development. More than 100 people attended the conference.
The various lectures focused on refractive surgery, management excellence, dry eye and optical coherence tomography, with speakers including local eye surgeon Dr Fayyaz Musa, who has recently partnered with University Valli Opticians to bring his private eye clinic and expertise in advanced ophthalmology services to campus.
Moin Valli, managing director at University Valli Opticians, said: “The University Valli Opticians Annual Conference is a cornerstone of our commitment to supporting the professional growth of eyecare professionals, bringing together industry leaders and practitioners to share knowledge and foster collaboration.”
In addition to the educational programme, the conference hosted an exhibition showcasing the latest products, services and technologies from leading industry suppliers including FODO, Stepper Eyewear, Eye Space, Silhouette, Bausch & Lomb, Net Zero Optics and Good Karma Eyewear.
Sponsors of the annual conference included Hoya Lens UK, Optegra, The Body Doctor, Eyes @ Uni and Spa Medica.
To find out more about studying Optometry at the University of Huddersfield visit www.hud.ac.uk/subjects/optometry
Image by: MARK FLYNN PHOTOGRAPHY
