Pre-Clinical Internship Workshop (18-05-2025)

Event Date: 18th May 2025

Event brief description

A Pre-Clinical Internship Workshop on Dispensing Optics and Low Vision is a crucial stepping stone for aspiring optometrists and vision care professionals. This hands-on program is designed to bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical skills, preparing students for real-world clinical settings. It typically covers key areas like lens selection, frame fitting, and optical dispensing, ensuring participants understand the science and art of creating personalized eyewear solutions.

In the dispensing optics segment, students learn the nuances of selecting and adjusting frames, interpreting prescriptions, and recommending appropriate lenses based on lifestyle and vision needs. This includes understanding the latest in lens technologies, coatings, and the importance of precise measurements to ensure comfort and optimal vision correction.

The low vision component focuses on aiding individuals with significant vision impairment. Participants gain insights into specialized devices like magnifiers, telescopes, and electronic aids, as well as strategies for enhancing visual function and quality of life.

Overall, this workshop emphasizes patient-centered care, critical problem-solving and effective communication, equipping future professionals with the confidence and competence needed in modern optometric practice.

Event Detailed Description

A Pre-Clinical Internship Workshop on Dispensing Optics and Low Vision is an essential training opportunity for optometry students and vision care professionals, aimed at bridging the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical application. This intensive program provides hands-on experience, enabling participants to confidently approach real-world clinical scenarios. It covers two critical areas: Dispensing Optics and Low Vision, both of which play pivotal roles in enhancing patient quality of life.

Dispensing Optics

Dispensing optics is the art and science of crafting and fitting eyewear that not only corrects vision but also meets individual aesthetic and comfort needs. This segment of the workshop emphasizes the importance of accurate lens selection, precise frame fitting, and patient education. Participants learn to interpret prescriptions, measure pupillary distances, and assess facial anatomy to ensure the optimal placement of lenses.

Students are trained to select the appropriate lens materials (such as polycarbonate, high-index, or Trivex) based on the patient's prescription, lifestyle, and budget. They also explore various lens designs, including single vision, bifocals, progressive addition lenses (PALs), and occupational lenses, each tailored to address specific visual demands.

Moreover, the workshop introduces the latest advancements in lens coatings, such as anti-reflective, blue light filtering, and UV protection, which can significantly enhance the wearer’s experience. Participants gain insight into frame selection, considering factors like frame shape, material, and color to match the patient’s facial features and lifestyle. Understanding the principles of frame adjustment and repair is also a critical component, as it directly impacts patient comfort and satisfaction.

Low Vision

Low vision care is a specialized area that addresses the needs of patients with significant, irreversible vision loss that cannot be corrected with conventional glasses or surgery. This part of the workshop teaches participants to assess the functional vision of individuals with conditions like macular degeneration, glaucoma, diabetic retinopathy, or retinitis pigmentosa.

Participants learn to conduct detailed low vision evaluations, focusing on maximizing residual vision through optical aids, environmental modifications, and rehabilitation strategies. This includes selecting and fitting devices like magnifiers, telescopic systems, electronic reading aids, and adaptive technologies that enhance visual function for daily tasks.

The training also emphasizes the psychological and emotional aspects of low vision, teaching participants to communicate effectively with patients who may be coping with significant life changes. Empathy and patient education are key, as these interactions often extend beyond routine eye care, involving ongoing support and personalized care plans.

Department Name –Department of Optometry

Event Outcome: The Pre-Clinical Internship Workshop on Dispensing Optics and Low Vision successfully equipped participants with practical skills in optical dispensing and low vision care. Students gained confidence in frame selection, lens fitting, and low vision device assessment. They developed patient communication and problem-solving abilities, enhancing their readiness for clinical practice. The workshop fostered a deeper understanding of patient-centered care and the importance of personalized vision solutions. Overall, it prepared future optometrists for real-world challenges in eye care.

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