Optometry Lecturer Sophia Gerritsma from the WA Centre for Rural Health (WACRH) and the University of Western Australia (UWA) has partnered with Geraldton Regional Aboriginal Medical Service (GRAMS).

Sophia has worked with GRAMS Eye Health Coordinator Eric Dalgety to ensure comprehensive, culturally safe eye care for patients attending GRAMS.

The initiative is underpinned by the establishment of the fully equipped Eye Health Clinic in GRAMS which can enhance patient outcomes through low-cost spectacle dispensing, and enabling early diagnosis, referral, and treatment for numerous sight-threatening diseases.

In addition, WACRH and the UWA School of Optometry are developing eyecare programs to assist vulnerable populations with limited access to optometry and eyecare services.

Sophia will work with final year UWA Optometry students to develop programs to assist with mobile school eye tests, mobile aged-care eye testing, and to streamline ophthalmology appointments and referrals prior to the arrival of visiting ophthalmologists in rural and remote areas.

The UWA School of Optometry are creating a tailored eyecare program for Western Australian children which will commence in 2024.

The pilot program will launch with Sophia and UWA final year Optometry students across four Midwest schools.

The school program aims to detect visual issues either overlooked or developed after initial screenings of early and pre-school children.

This proactive approach, including on-the-spot comprehensive eye testing, can change the educational trajectory for vulnerable children in rural and remote areas with limited to no access to optometry and ophthalmology services throughout their school years.