WCO produces curriculum guide for optometry schools

The World Council of Optometry’s Education Committee has developed curricular support elements to assist schools, colleges and universities intending to start or upgrade an optometry program, according to a WCO press release.

The guide outlines areas in which optometrists should be competent at a level that is of the highest international standards, according to the document.

“[Because] this document is comprehensive, not all programs will include all elements to the same extent often [dependent upon] the regulations governing optometry in the country of the program,” the guide reads. “This document considers the elements of the comprehensive eye examination and develops the curriculum content from the knowledge and skills that underpin each element.”

The guide outlines elements of a patient exam, patient management, general health assessment, specialized care and professional responsibilities.

For example, a comprehensive eye exam includes, according to the guide: case history; assessment of the form, condition and functionality of the anterior ocular adnexa, anterior segment, ocular media and posterior segment; assessment of the quality of the visual pathway and sensory visual function; assessment of refractive status and binocular and oculomotor function; and assessment and prescription of spectacles and contact lenses.