UK Optometrists’ Professional Learning Needs Toward Engaging with Myopia Control Interventions

Abstract

Purpose: This study aimed to explore the support that UK optometrists feel they require to facilitate their engagement with myopia control intervention. Methods: A self-administered online survey was distributed via QualtricsXM to practising optometrists in the UK via email lists and newsletters of local optical committees, social media, and optometric networks. Questions focussed on learning styles, training needs and barriers to learning. Results: Fifty-five respondents completed the survey. Forty-eight respondents answered the question on where they get information about myopia control and learning style, 79.2% indicated that conferences offering Continuing Professional Development (CPD) material were their main source, and 20.8% preferred online learning as the preferred format of delivery. Optometrists would like to receive training in clinical assessments (78.9%), evaluating suitable interventions (76.3%), developing and implementing specific patient intervention plans (76.3%), carrying out chosen myopia control interventions (fitting/prescribing) (73.7%), and the use of pharmacological interventions (94.4%). Of the 40 respondents who answered professional development questions, 97 5% were most interested in finding, identifying and applying evidencebased practice (EBP), followed by clinical decision-making in myopia control (95.0%). When asked about barriers to learning in this field, 29.7% reported limited time to attend training as the greatest barrier. Conclusion: Optometrists felt they need training in various aspects of myopia management, from practical skills to assessing and fitting/prescribing appropriate myopia control interventions. They were also interested in learning more on EBP and clinical decision-making related to myopia control. To improve the uptake of myopia control among optometrists, various learning methods, especially online learning, and providing sufficient time for training are crucial.

An Insight into Knowledge, Perspective, and Practices of Indian Optometrists towards Childhood Myopia

“…In addition, myopia control interventions are still a relatively new focus for optometrists. Limited clinical exposure, a lack of experience, and confidence in exhibiting clinical skills in myopia management might be additional barriers to performing ocular AL [ 31 ].…”

“…However, very little is known about the allocated or protected time to attend training for practicing optometrists. Workload and lack of support from the management are barriers to finding time for research and CPD [ 31 ]. Additionally, there are no published standard clinical practice guidelines for myopia control from optometry boards, councils, and associations in India, indicating the need to improve the prescribing guidelines to provide evidence-based care.…”