College of Optometrists

17 February 2012 Return to news listings

Recent research conducted by the College of Optometrists has shown that the main reason people decided to study optometry was the link to health, promoting healthy living and making a difference within their local communities.

Results also showed that the 87% of newly-qualified optometrists were satisfied with the service they received from the College during their pre-registration period.

They said that while studying and during the pre-registration period, they frequently referred to the College website and publications, the Code of Ethics and Guidelines for Professional Conduct, and took advantage of special offers such as discounts on reading lists. Newly qualified optometrists (82%) also said that they expect the College will play a major part in their development and they plan to take advantage of membership benefits such as clinical management guidelines, patient leaflets, attend free member CET events and subscribe to the College’s CPD journal - Optometry in Practice.

Comments from newly-qualified optometrists included “The pre-reg year is a stressful time, but the College helped to ease the pressure by giving fantastic and relevant advice when asked” and “all the information that was provided in the college handbook was very thorough, and left no question unanswered.”.

The College’s Director of Education, Jacqueline Martin added, “the results from the survey clearly show that College support plays a key role for trainees. 92% of trainees found the trainee handbook, the definitive reference source, useful. One of the College’s fundamental roles is the development of future professionals, the optometrists of tomorrow. We will continue to support trainees by providing essential support, ensuring that they are suitably prepared to practice optometry.”

Newly qualified optometrists were less aware of the services offered by the College’s clinical adviser. Dr Susan Blakeney offers clinical and ethical advice to College members and responded to over 360 enquiries in 2011. Member enquiries included advice about patients who suffer from epilepsy and glaucoma referrals.

-Ends-

For more information please contact Zena Wigram, Head of Marketing and Communications.

Telephone 020 7766 4342  Email zena.wigram@college-optometrists.org