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Optometrists Association Australia Universal (entry-level) and Therapeutic Competency Standards for Optometry 2008
1Optometrists Association Australia, Melbourne, Australia. p.kiely@optometrists.asn.au
Clinical & Experimental Optometry
|June 16, 2009
Summary
Updated competency standards for Australian optometrists were released in 2008, incorporating new elements and performance criteria for both entry-level and therapeutic practice. These revised standards ensure optometrists meet evolving professional requirements.
Area of Science:
- Optometry
- Professional Standards
- Healthcare Education
Background:
- Optometry competency standards in Australia were first established in 1993 and subsequently revised in 1997 and 2000 to include therapeutic competencies.
- The entry-level standards define competencies for new optometrists, while therapeutic standards address additional skills for specialized practice.
- This paper details the 2008 revision of both universal (entry-level) and therapeutic competency standards for Australian optometry.
Purpose of the Study:
- To present a revised version of the universal (entry-level) and therapeutic competency standards for the optometry profession in Australia.
- To update the professional requirements to reflect current practice and ensure high standards of optometric care.
- To provide a benchmark for the education, assessment, and registration of optometrists.
Main Methods:
- Consultation with expert members of the optometry profession.
- Involvement of representatives from optometry schools, registration boards, and professional associations in Australia and New Zealand.
- A systematic review and revision process of existing competency standards.
Main Results:
- Introduction of three new elements of competency.
- Addition of twenty-three new performance criteria with associated indicators.
- Combination of some previous performance criteria and substantial alterations to the presentation of indicators.
- The updated standards were adopted by the National Council of Optometrists Association Australia in November 2008.
Conclusions:
- The revised competency standards are utilized by Australian and New Zealand registration authorities for professional registration and therapeutic endorsement.
- These standards facilitate accreditation and assessment processes through the Optometry Council of Australia and New Zealand.
- The updated standards serve as a foundation for the World Council of Optometry's Global Competency-Based Model.
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