CPD provision was the keynote discussion at the recent Autumn OSA meeting, led by suppliers who are keen to bring the significant advances of optical technology to a wider audience.
Andy Sanders, Professional Services Director of Hoya, and an experienced and respected CPD provider, outlined the stages of becoming approved. His guidance included additional insights over and above those provided on the GOC website –
“Raising a company’s profile; supporting professional training; attracting new clients; and strengthening relationships are the major attractions of CPD. Quite rightly, the CPD must ensure that all major suppliers are equally represented in any presentation, but it is a very effective means for a business to show leadership in their field when looking to engage with the specific audiences of Contact Lens Opticians, Dispensing Opticians and Optometrists.
“For the profession to gain knowledge and convey this to patients is essential. Iti s not only the large events such as 100% Optical when CPD can be delivered, but within practices and as online sessions, often engaging the decision makers.”
This cost-effective form of engagement is uppermost in many OSA member company minds at a time when there is so much innovation to be shared. Delegates to the meeting were invited to discuss their experiences in providing CPD.
Andy emphasised how the OSA can help with the planning and provision of CPD, and encouraged delegates to make use of the tremendous pool of knowledge available to OSA members –
“We are now in the first year of the three-year cycle, but by December 2027 many in the profession will be very anxious to complete their 36 points. By starting now, OSA members can be well placed to provide this,” he added.
Meeting at the St Pancras Hotel, London, delegates from every aspect of the optical supply chain heard the latest regulatory news from OSA consultant, Ann Blackmore. There was also a briefing on the Green Charter’s progress in providing a benchmark for the entire optical community to work towards, and encouragingly this has been shortlisted for this year’s OPTICIAN Awards.
DICOM was also on the agenda as part of the Opticare Innovations update. The OSA DICOM Committee has been formed, with new Chairman Nathan Little and Vice Chairman Paulo Barbiero, who will be the OSA’s representatives on the wider DICOM Task Group. OSA members are being urged to make contact to ensure their voices are heard in the national group setting out principles with technical and practical realities at the fore.
The networking event provided an opportunity for members to chat with the OSA directors and specialists, with thoughts for the year ahead.
Next date: 5th December OSA AGM and Christmas lunch at the Bloomsbury Hotel, London WC1B 3NN. To reserve a place contact: mmacritchie@osa-uk.co.uk
Pictured l-r – Alex Webster, Andy Sanders, Julian Clarke