The marathon of comfort

32 Pages·2015·2.02 MB·English

by  Ros Argent

Vision Now
A National Eyecare Group Publication
NOVEMBER 2015
The marathon
of comfort
Today’s contact lens wearers demand
comfort - all day, every day and
throughout the entire wearing cycle.
That’s where Biofinity® comes in -
designed to deliver comfort that lasts.
www.coopervision.co.uk

Vision Now Comment
Vision Now magazine is published by Peekay Publishing Ltd for The PK National
Eyecare Group Ltd, the UK’s largest purchasing group for independent opticians.
Half the world’s population, nearly five
billion people, will be myopic by 2050 if
CONTENTS something’s not done soon to stem the
emerging tidal wave of myopia across the
globe (see News page 9). This is the

News prediction of some of the world’s leading
2 Slight rise in NHS sight tests experts at the Brien Holden Vision Institute
in Australia, who also warn that around one billion people will
5 Ortho-k lens awareness drive
be in the high myopia category and so at risk of going blind.
7 Contact lens power range extended
9 DOCET launches training magazine As reported elsewhere in this issue (see ABDO conference
report on pages 19 and 21), there are some promising
11
Developing Thoughts interventions already available, which have been shown
to have some efficacy in helping to slow down myopia
“Well, I didn’t know that!”
progression. These include prescribing orthokeratology
contact lenses, using progressive addition lenses, and
12
AIO conference encouraging children to spend at least two hours outdoors
Bright outlook for sector every day.
19 ABDO conference However, it seems there is still much work to be done in raising
awarenesson this issue, and this is what’s led No 7 Contact
Dispensing in the spotlight Lenses to embark on a consumer marketing drive on the
benefits of ortho-k lenses (see News page 5). Myopia control
22
A consultant’s eye view is one topic that looks set to remain hot for many years to
History repeating itself come and we’ll be keeping members updated – whether it
be about the latest research or the commercialisation of
25 myopia control products, none of which are yet available in
Falmouth sightings
the UK.
In praise of the double bass
Sadly, this is our final edition of 2015. We hope you have
26 Style spotlight found all of this year’s issues useful, relevant and informative
in some way or another. We will begin planning ahead
Eyewear artistry at Silmo 2015 for 2016 soon, and would really value some feedback from
members on what you would like to see featured: topics that
28
Suppliers’ directory would be particularly useful to you as an independent
practitioner.

I will be joining the team at the NEG conference in Leicester

later this month, so I hope to see you then to ‘brainstorm’
any ideas you may have. If I don’t, have a great Christmas
and see you in the New Year…
EDITOR Nicky Collinson BA (Hons) Yours,
[email protected]
Nicky Collinson @eyestories
EDITORIAL PA Sharon Hicks
Editor
[email protected]
Vision Now
FASHION EDITOR Joan Grady
[email protected]
BUSINESS EDITOR Philip Mullins FBDO
[email protected]
DESIGNER Rosslyn Argent BA (Hons) The Editor welcomes letters, articles and other contributions for
publication in the magazine and reserves the right to amend them.
PUBLISHER Michael C Wheeler FCOptom DipCLP FSMC FAAO Any such contribution, whether it bears the author’s name, initials or
pseudonym, is accepted on the understanding that its author is
responsible for the opinions expressed in it and that its publication
does not imply that such opinions are those of The PK National
The PK National Eyecare Group Limited Eyecare Group Ltd. Articles submitted for publication should be
Managing Director: Michael Daunt original, unpublished work and are accepted on the basis that they
Clermont House, Cranbrook, Kent, TN17 3DN will not be published in any other journal. Acceptance of material
for publication is not a guarantee that it will be included in any
Tel: [phone] Fax: [phone] particular issue.
Copyright © 2015 for Peekay Publishing Ltd. All rights reserved. No
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or by any means, including photocopying and recording, without the
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2 NEWS
NEWS
1 Optical Confederation
The number of NHS sight tests carried out in the UK in 2013-14 rose (by 3.6
per cent) to 16.027 million (from 15.47 million in 2012-13) according to the
2013 and 2014 editions of Optics at a Glance published by the Optical
Confederation (OC). The report also showed that for the year ending 31 Devesh (centre right) with his project supporters
March 2014, domiciliary sight tests in England rose by 5.2 per cent, and Exhibition of 1851. The 1851 Royal Commission awards a range of fellowships
rose even further in Wales by 10.2 per cent. In Northern Ireland, however, and grants to support science and engineering research as well as industrial
domiciliary sight tests decreased by 8.3 per cent. education across the UK.
Results from an OC members’ survey for the year ending 31 March 2014 Devesh’s project involves incorporating liquid crystals into intraocular lenses
showed that: the average charge to patients for a private sight test, excluding to address presbyopia without compromise. It builds on work between
‘no charge’, discounts and special offers, increased to £26 (from £25.18 in UltraVision CLPL and the University of Manchester, which started in 2010,
2012-13); the average interval between sight tests increased to 25 months involving creating and patenting technology incorporating liquid crystals into
(from 24 months in 2012-13); the proportion of re-glazed spectacles contact lenses, again for addressing presbyopia without compromise. John
decreased to 7.7 per cent (from 9.8 per cent in 2012-13); the annual contact Clamp, COO of UltraVision CLPL, said: “Working with Devesh has been
lens care fee remained the same £42.53; and the percentage of people on inspirational and we are thrilled that all the hard work has resulted in Devesh
a contact lens regular payment scheme decreased to 55 per cent (from 60.2 being awarded the prestigious Fellowship from the 1851 Royal Commission.”
per cent in 2012-13). Read the full report at www.opticalconfederation.org.uk
4 CooperVision
2 Silhouette
Romana Khaliq, a final-year optometry student at Glasgow Caledonian
With the festive season fast University (GCU) in Scotland, has been named 2015 CooperVision Student
approaching, Silhouette has of the Year. The final of the competition took place during CooperVision’s
announced its seasonal National Student Summit, when finalists were able to tour the company’s
Christmas window initiative manufacturing site in Hamble and its European Distribution Centre. For her
featuring its Crystal collections research project, Romana had investigated the effects of hydrogel and
of rimless eyewear. Each silicone hydrogel single use lenses on tear evaporation rate under different
Crystal frame is crafted from environmental conditions.
23 carat gold-plated titanium,
with between six and 24 Xilion
crystals and all hand-finished
in Austria. Practices will qualify
for a window display kit
by purchasing a minimum of
four frames from its Crystal
collections. The kit contains a
snowflake-patterned poster
Christmas Crystal display kit
and gift boxes in tones of gold
and cream, designed to attract passing customers.
The Crystal frames focus on different character traits: Light Attraction frames
are fine and elegant; Sparkling Finesse conveys a contemporary, linear look;
while Caresse frames hold a single crystal, creating simple luxury.
Customers who receive a display kit will be invited to Tweet a photo of their
display by 15 December, using the hashtag #silhouettechristmas and tag
@silhouette_1964, for the chance to win a luxury Fortnum & Mason
Christmas themed hamper. The kits are available from local area managers.
Romana Khaliq with finalists, supervisors and judges
Her prize is a full delegate package to attend the 2017 BCLA clinical
3 UltraVision CLPL
conference and exhibition and she will represent the UK at CooperVision’s
European FORCE (Future Ocular Research Creativity Event) at its Centre of
Along with the University of Leeds and the University of Manchester, Innovation in Budapest, Hungary, in spring 2016. CooperVision’s Karl
UltraVision CLPL has successfully collaborated to support and fund Devesh Aberdeen said: “Each year the students raise the bar on the standard of
Mistry in a doctoral project, ‘Development of liquid crystal based ophthalmic research and presentation. All this year’s finalists show great promise. It’s
devices with switchable focusing of ageing eye’. This has resulted in Devesh wonderful to see this young talent and for CooperVision to play a part in
being awarded an Industry Fellowship from the Royal Commission for the nurturing that talent.”
0151 426 3907
continental-eyewear.co.uk
Continental Eyewear
MODEL WEARS ZENITH ZEST 80
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Heidelberg Engineering
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Visit www.HeidelbergEngineering.co.uk to see what SPECTRALIS owners really think. www.HeidelbergEngineering.co.uk K.BE15
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OCT (cid:127) MultiColor (cid:129) Autofluorescence (cid:129) Infrared (cid:129) FA (cid:129) ICGA (cid:129) Widefield (cid:129) Stereo (cid:129) Anterior (cid:129) Perimetry (cid:129) Topography 94289-002
NEWS 5
5 Dunelm Optical acetate frame that mixes soft curves with an edgy yet feminine modern
front. Brown, burgundy and red, as well as a classic black and white version,
adorn the temples, while silver or golden detailing, inspired by the fold of a
Richard Stott has joined Dunelm Optical as area sales manager covering the
dress, provide added elegance.
Midlands, parts of Lincolnshire and South Wales. He joins the company with
more than 10 years’ sales experience in the optics industry. Richard said:
“Dunlem is one of the most established suppliers of eyewear and 8 British Contact Lens Association
prescription glazing in the UK so I’m delighted to be joining the company as
it moves forward into its next phase of growth. Being able to sell such a
The British Contact Lens Association (BCLA) has announced a new training
variety of quality frames, backed up by a major in-house lens lab, is a really
day focusing on rigid gas permeable lenses. Taking place on Sunday 6
exciting opportunity for me. Offering this full service to independent opticians
December at Aston University, it will offer practitioners of all levels the
is something I’m passionate about.”
opportunity to learn about RGPs for the first time or to update their
knowledge on the latest advances with these lenses and their place in
6 No7 Contact Lenses modern contact lens practice. The day begins with an overview of GP lenses
and how they fit into modern practice, then divides into two tracks, both with
a high degree of interactivity and hands-on content.
No7 Contact Lenses has embarked
on a six-month regional consumer
Andrew Elder Smith, BCLA Education Committee chair, said: “This newly
marketing drive to raise awareness
developed course offers a unique opportunity for practitioners at all stages
of orthokeratology (ortho-k) amongst
of their career to enhance and develop their gas permeable lens fitting skills.
children and adults. This will see
About one in 12 contact lens wearers are wearing GPs and more could
successful case studies highlighted
benefit from the latest mini-scleral and ortho-k designs. The course will give
in the local press with publicity for
attendees the knowledge and practical skills and confidence to build their
the practices involved. Katie Harrop,
contact lens practice.” Register at www.bcla.org.uk/events
No7 professional services manager,
said: “The potential for ortho-k is
enormous – there are unlikely to be 9 Norville
better ways to secure patient loyalty
and to promote an independent
practice with such specialist
knowledge. The biggest barrier to
Leading the way on ortho-k awareness wear is a lack of awareness.”
Citing five studies completed in the past three years into the effectiveness
of the night-time vision correction, the company believes there is clear
evidence to put before parents and their children. For example, a University
of Ulster April 2015 study showed that 23 per cent of British 12 and 13-
year-olds were myopic compared with 10 per cent 50 years ago. Aston
University will start a myopia clinic in 2016, providing consultations for
parents about their children. Professor James Wolffsohn, deputy dean of life
sciences, said: “I have been involved in myopia for 20 years and am jointly
supervising PhD students in Hong Kong to look at corneal changes. In clinical
practice, ortho-k is the most effective treatment for myopia that we have.”
7 Charmant
Discreet design elements with Cecil Gee
Elle Eyewear’s latest collection draws its inspiration from the purity of
minimalism and fluid forms currently dominating Paris catwalks. Autumn Norville has added six new styles to its Cecil Gee range including traditional
colours are combined with traces of gold and silver for added sophistication. and modern design elements, and statement detailing throughout such as
Model EL13393 (pictured) reinvents the iconic Havana look with a new double bars and cut-out temples. Model CG-029 (pictured) is a full rim
acetate frame available in tortoiseshell and black. The frame benefits from
two size options, a 54 and 56 eye, and features tapered spring hinged
temples with a shallow cut away detail balancing the fine twin lines of metal
on the joint. Discreet outer temple branding carries the famous CG signature.
All new frames are available in two colours and two eye sizes offering a
great choice.
10 Eyeplan
Eyeplan has renewed its sponsorship of the Association for Independent
Optometrists and Dispensing Opticians (AIO) and in recognition of his
contribution over the years, Eyeplan’s commercial director Chris Clemence
has been awarded affiliate membership of the AIO. “As devoted supporters
of the independent sector, we are delighted to renew our sponsorship of the
AIO,” said Chris. “Our continued relationship is in recognition of the AIO’s
growing stature as the voice of independent practice and the natural home
Autumn chic by Elle of independent optometrists and dispensing opticians.”

NEWS 77
11 Eyespace 7233 (pictured) is a lightweight acetate frame featuring a modified rectangle
silhouette for a sleek, trendy look. A dynamic colour accent on the inner
temples and front pins adds a subtle pop of colour to the frame, while a laser
etched enamel filled Nike block logo appears on the outer temples for a
branded finish. The frame is available in Satin Black, Satin Dark Grey, Satin
Grey Tortoise and Tortoise.
14 De Rigo
British luxury brand Dunhill, part of the Richemont Group, and De Rigo Vision
have announced an exclusive license agreement for the design, production
and worldwide distribution of the Dunhill-branded optical and sun collection.
A touch of fairy dust and sparkle Michele Aracri, managing director of De Rigo Vision, said: “We are very
pleased to begin this new and exciting partnership with such a prestigious
Ready for the party season, Eyespace has launched Florence, a brand new
brand as Dunhill, which is synonymous with elegance and luxury. We will
Rock Star children’s model. Full of sparkle, the acetate frame for girls
use De Rigo’s expertise to develop an eyewear collection reflecting the
embraces its Rock Star roots with an on-trend retro eyeshape and striking
brand’s commitment to quality and heritage with a contemporary
eyefront in tones carefully selected to flatter young skin tones. The finishing
sophistication of design”. The collection will debut at the beginning of 2016.
touch to this model is glittering fairy dust set within the temples. Florence
is available in size 47-16-130 and in two colours: C1 is cherry-red with ruby
and gold-infused temples and C2 is magenta with shimmering sugar-lilac 15 Silhouette
temples (pictured).
In other news, the company has celebrated its second anniversary by moving
into new premises. Joint managing directors, Jayne and Julie Abel, said:
“The new open plan premises provide opportunities for growth, with an in-
house design studio to benefit future product development. Having such a
state-of-the-art facility allows us to bring customers more new products
and collections, whilst also keeping the needs of opticians close to home.
Larger warehouse factilities will also allow stock holdings to expand and
offer even greater availability for immediate order dispatch. Orders will be
managed even more efficiently and effectively, with full preparation being
placed on demand: our focus on exceptional customer care maintains – we
always endeavour to exceed expectations.” Eyespace’s new telephone
number is 01527 870 550.
12 Alcon
Alcon has increased the sphere power range of its Dailies Total1 brand, from
-10.00D to +6.00D. Launched in 2013, and granted a patent by the
European Patent Office for pioneering manufacturing methods and contact Urban Lite range expanded
lens technology in the same year, Dailies Total1 features more than 80 per
New colours and shapes in Silhouette’s award winning collection, Urban Lite,
cent water content at the lens surface. Jonathon Bench, head of professional
have been introduced. Model 1562 (pictured) is a rounded feminine shape
affairs for Alcon Vision Care UK and Ireland, said: “With Dailies Total1, we
with lifted upper line, while model 2891 is a masculine quattro shape. Both
have entered a new era in contact lenses, delivering a new standard of comfort
styles benefit from ultra-thin rims, proven hinge technology, smooth sliding
not seen before in the contact lens market. With the launch of Dailies Total1
properties and maintenance free durability plus the introduction of integrated
Plus Powers, we are able to make this available to a wider range of patients,
nose pads for a selection of styles. New colours include Cranberry Red,
better meeting the needs of the optical community and their patients.”
Oyster Grey and Navy Blue in men’s styles, and Ruby Red, Soft Jade, Lilac
Blue, Peachy Nude, Fuchsia and Marsala in the women’s frames. The Urban
13 Marchon Eyewear Lite frame was awarded an IF Design Award for excellent design and
outstanding design achievements in 2015.
16 LOCSU
The Local Optical Committee Support Unit (LOCSU) has completed the first
major update to its Atlas of Optical Variation. The Atlas now reveals details
of services delivered by LOC Companies as well as those commissioned via
individual contracts. The map view shows services by pathway type, with
geographic groupings by NHS regional team that can be broken down to
LOC or CCG level. LOCSU MD Katrina Venerus said: “The reality is community
eye services are still a postcode lottery due to the absence of national
Seeing sport better
standardised commissioning. The updated Atlas of Variation offers a
Nike Vision’s product line continues to expand with an array of new optical snapshot of the current provision and gaps around the country. It will be
styles that maintain the same attention to detail and ultimate focus on the useful for LOCs, for commissioners and for the public to be able to see where
athlete, providing premium quality eyewear to help ‘see sport better’. Nike services exist and how they are provided.” The live Atlas is at www.locsu.co.uk
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eyespace-eyewear.co.uk | 01527 870550