The International Orthoptic Association represents over 20,000 orthoptists, in over 20 countries.
History
The International Orthoptic Association was formed in 1967 after the first International Orthoptic Congress. The British Orthoptic Association were the founding members.
Registration and licensing
Orthoptists are required to be licensed by their respective countries. Many countries also require them to undertake continuing professional education.Koklanis K, Georgievski Z. Continuing professional education programs for orthoptists. Insight 2009; Feb/March: 43. [PDF]
Professional work
Orthoptists are part of the eye care professional team. They primarily work alongside ophthalmologists, in the co-management of strabismus and binocular vision disorders, such as amblyopia.Georgievski Z, Koklanis K, Leone J. Orthoptists' management of amblyopia - a case based survey. Strabismus, 2007, 15(3): 197-203. [Pubmed Link]
Orthoptists are involved in international research,Koklanis K, Georgievski Z. Recurrence of intermittent exotropia: Factors associated with surgical outcomes. Clinical and Experimental Ophthalmology 2008; 36 (Suppl 2): A765. [Link] while some are employed (particularly in the US and Canada) to teach ophthalmology residents standard orthoptic care, vision therapy and ocular sonography practice.Devereux C, Georgievski Z, Santamaria L. An online discussion forum to support orthoptic clinical education. In: Verlohr D, Georgievski, Z, Rydberg, A (Eds.) Global Perspectives Converge Downunder. Transactions of the Xth International Orthoptic Congress, Melbourne, Australia, 14–17 November 2004; 348-351.
See also Amblyopia Eye care professional Eyepatch Optometry Orthoptist Pediatric ophthalmology Strabismus Vision therapy
References
External links International Orthoptic Association