Optical coherence tomography (OCT) is now a familiar feature of everyday practice. This session will give dispensing opticians a practical introduction to OCT, focusing on age-related macular degeneration (AMD) and other common medical retina conditions they may encounter. Through a lecture and small-group discussion, delegates will learn how to recognise the basic features of OCT scans, build confidence in understanding the terminology used by colleagues, and appreciate how OCT findings relate to patient care pathways. Using real-world examples, the workshop will highlight how optometrists and dispensing opticians can use this knowledge to support their professional role, improve communication within the practice team, and enhance patient understanding of their journey.

Learning outcomes:

• Practitioners will be able to explain OCT test results to a patient and the wider practice team, and improve the patients' understanding of the disease and patient care pathways
• Practitioners will be able to recognise, assess, and manage AMD, relative to their scope of practice