Mastering the optics business

As part of the comprehensive education programme at O=Mega19, and running concurrently with the main clinical conference, are a series of masterclasses designed for optical dispensers, practice managers and optometrist practice owners with an interest in dispensing.

The masterclasses will cover a mix of practical issues from basic lens dispensing through to advanced sessions aimed at experienced practitioners. Topics include:

Progressive lens dispensing – getting the basics right
Essential anatomy and pathology for dispensers
How to compete with millennial-focused outlets
The true cost of dispensing mistakes
Managing myopia
The private world of prism
Paediatric dispensing
The principles of planning, developing, marketing and the financial obligations of a new optometric practice

Speakers include Steve Daras, Australian Dispensing Opticians Association director and TAFE New South Wales optical dispensing course coordinator; James Gibbins and Chedy Kalach, ACOD directors; Leigh Robinson, Spectrum Optical’s ophthalmic training facilitator; Michael Morton, from the Brien Holden Vision Institute; and Grant Hannaford from the University of New South Wales.

Meet Grant Hannaford

A physicist, lens designer and qualified optical dispenser, Grant Hannaford is the first and currently only qualified spectacle lens designer in Australia. He majored in pure and quantum mathematics at university and has an interest in research and photonics.

An adjunct senior lecturer at the School of Optometry and Vision Science UNSW, Hannaford is also past chair of the NSW Optical Dispensers Education Trust and past vice president of the Association of Dispensing Opticians of Australia (NSW).

As part of his masterclasses, Hannaford will share a selection of real-life dispensing problems and analyse the true cost of remakes to your practice.

How do maths and physics combine with optometry?

Understanding the core concepts underpinning lens design and aberrations means we can solve complex problems for patients and identify potential issues. I teach theory and practice at the University of New South Wales and, together with my wife Thao, have established the Academy of Advanced Ophthalmic Optics to promote integration of high-level lens designs into daily practice through continuing education. Being in private practice with Thao in Bowral in NSW, ensures our methodologies and professional development programmes are rooted in real-world experience.

What does a "spectacle lens designer" do?

Spectacle lens design encompasses the process of applying powers to a physical lens while endeavouring to minimise aberrations. The industry has now also developed the ability to apply lens designs to a given prescription and suit the biometric data of a given patient. While this raises the level of lens design complexity, it also allows us to deliver a specific solution for a patient rather than operate on a set of assumed core parameters.

What developments are on the horizon?

Changes in regulatory frameworks have led to a disconnect between the latest developments in lens design and the practitioner. We want to bridge this gap with our continuing professional development to build the existing knowledge base of the practitioner and make them aware of the full range of potential lens solutions for patients.

What do you do in your spare time?

My spare time is split between working towards my doctorate in ophthalmic science and engaging in martial arts with Thao, including ryukonkai (an Okinawan weapons art), karate, iaido and jodo (Japanese sword and stick martial arts).

What are you looking forward to at O=Mega19?

The education stream. Having a forum where a diverse range of topics are delivered will challenge practitioners in all areas of the sector as well as across skill levels.