ABDO Highlights the Role of the Dispensing Optician

In the light of recent online information, The Association of British Dispensing Opticians(ABDO), would like to clarify the extensive role of the professional registered dispensing optician.

ABDO represents over 6,000 qualified dispensing opticians in the UK who are registered with and regulated by the General Optical Council(GOC). All registered dispensing opticians have undergone a minimum of three years academic and practical training to qualify. Only dispensing opticians registered with the GOC can practice in the UK or use the protected title dispensing optician.

Dispensing opticians are highly skilled professionals who have the skills to offer professional advice on lenses for night driving, UV protection, prescription sunglasses, spectacles for VDU use, low vision aids, dry eye, sports and safety eyewear.

Some members of the profession take further qualifications and specialise in low vision or contact lenses. Dispensing opticians with contact lens qualifications can also train to provide minor eye condition services alongside optometrists. A rapid assessment of the needs of patients presenting with an eye condition ensures that the patient is managed appropriately and safely, avoiding unnecessary referral to hospital.

Dispensing spectacles to children, to the visually impaired, or dispensing of contact lenses can only be undertaken by or carried out under the supervision of dispensing opticians or optometrists registered with the GOC.

When purchasing eyewear ABDO always recommend that you seek the personal advice and services of a qualified optical practitioner so that your individual requirements can be fully assessed and satisfied.

ABDO is liaising with the Association of Optometrists to ensure that all material for the public explains the true role of the dispensing optician.