Jan. 6, 2016
The World Council of Optometry has published “Why Optometry?” and “A Global Competency Based Model of the Scope of Practice in Optometry.” These documents detail the role, composition and contribution of the profession of optometry in its various forms throughout the world. They also highlight the contribution optometry can make to eliminate avoidable blindness and visual impairment, as well as aid in advocacy efforts to initiate or expand the presence and the scope of practice of optometric eyecare.
“Why Optometry?” was produced in response to the World Health Organization’s Global Action Plan for the Prevention of Avoidable Blindness and Visual Impairment 2014-2019. It makes the case for delivering high quality, advanced and equitable eye health and vision care for patients worldwide.
In 2005, the General Delegates Meeting of the World Council of Optometry (WCO) formally adopted the Global Competency-Based Model of Scope of Practice in Optometry. This model had been designed to provide a framework for addressing the challenges of differences in training, increased practitioner mobility across international borders and the need to promote greater harmonization of optometric education around the world. The new publication, “A Global Competency Based Model of the Scope of Practice in Optometry,” reflects the changes in education and scope of practice implemented since 2005.
These publications and other information about the World Council of Optometry can be found at http://www.worldoptometry.org.
