The Advanced Certificate in Glaucoma (ACO-ACG) offers optometrists training in current best practice for the pathophysiology, diagnosis and co-management of glaucoma.
Graduates completing this course will have enhanced knowledge of glaucoma and improved ability to participate in collaborative care with ophthalmologists. This six month course offers a flexible remote learning structure ideal for rural or remote optometrists and those balancing work and other commitments.
– Applications open –
Start Date
20 March 2023
Duration
6 months
CPD Points
Australia: 35T (15i)
CPD Points
New Zealand: 38CD (2022 points)
2023 point allocation pending
Features
- NEW lectures on OCT analysis and diagnosis
- Self-paced independent learning
- Online lectures and demonstration videos
- Local clinical placements in Australia or New Zealand
- ODOB (NZ) approval for independent glaucoma prescribing
Applications
To apply, complete the fillable form attached to the 2023 course brochure and email it to cpd@aco.org.au. Alternatively, post your form to ACO Education, Australian College of Optometry, 374 Cardigan St, Carlton, VIC 3053.
Entry requirements
Candidates must be an optometry graduate and be registered as an optometrist in Australia or New Zealand. However, course enquiries from international applicants or optometrists with limited registration are welcome and should be directed to the ACO (cpd@aco.org.au).
It is recommended that candidates have a minimum of six months general practice experience prior to commencing this course.
Further information
Meet Alex, 2021 Graduate
Since graduating in 2017, Alex Kaye has dedicated himself to regional optometry and is passionate about delivering all aspects of general optometry to his community. For Alex, this certificate was the next step in enhancing his scope of practice.
“Glaucoma is a common and complex condition, and we encounter patients at all stages of the disease spectrum. Pursuing the course was a way to better care for these patients as well as serve my curiosity about glaucoma management.
Its diagnosis and management require
multiple elements. To see how these elements fit together and have a better understanding of a patient’s risk of glaucoma or risk of progression is very rewarding. Having 6 months dedicated to one topic provides plenty of opportunities to identify and address areas of weakness through various learning experiences.
I focused my attention on clinical skills, such as identifying subtle glaucomatous progression through OCT as well as the indication for the use of selective laser trabeculoplasty (SLT) as a first-line treatment. While these treatments are implemented by the ophthalmologist, gaining new insights allowed me to be more confident in caring for my glaucoma patients.
The course can be conducted at your own pace and the structure is laid out at the beginning, so it’s easy to plan ahead. Like most things, I find the more effort you put in the more you will get out.”
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