Issue #4 | May 2025

Welcome to
In Focus!

Your monthly ticket to independent optometry excellence.

A Message from Jo

Hi Everyone,

It’s a pleasure to have you join us in the 4th issue of In Focus.

This edition has me reflecting on just how much technology has changed over the years. It is a constant in every part of our lives. Just think about our phones—

In the 70s, we relied on landlines.

In the 80s, the first large “brick” mobile phones made their debut.

By the 90s, mobiles had become more portable, with SIM cards making it easier to switch devices.

In the 2000s, we started using our phones to take photos, and smartphones soon followed.

Now, our phones are practically pocket-sized personal assistants and we use them to stay connected, manage our daily lives, and even work from anywhere!

The evolution of technology in optics has been just as transformative. Here’s how much we’ve progressed over the years:

Equipment

In the 1980s, everything was manual and fundus photography started to appear.
In the 1990s, some automation was introduced along with the first OCTs.

Since then, equipment has continued to improve with practices upgrading to the newest options and Optometrists being able to diagnose more and improve patient outcomes.

Contact Lenses

In the 1980s, soft lenses became mainstream, RGP was introduced, Torics were being tested.
In the 1990s, monthly and fortnightly lenses became more popular. The first daily disposables were introduced, and we had better Toric designs.
In the 2000s, there were multifocal advancements, cosmetic-coloured lenses became more popular, and 30-day continuous/extended wear lenses became the norm.
In the 2010s, myopia control lenses came into play and blue light filtering was added, and more recently, the adoption of Ortho-K, and more myopia management has grown.

Lenses

In the 1980s, CR39 (plastic) became more popular, polycarbonate was introduced, and the first transitions were introduced.
In the 1990s, better multicoats were introduced, progressive lenses became more widely used, aspheric designs were introduced, and polarised lenses became more widely used.
In the 2000s, freeform designs were introduced, hi-index became more common, blue light blocking started to be used, and better designed lenses for wraparound sunglasses were introduced.
In the 2010s, anti-fatigue lenses were introduced.
In the 2020s, myopia management lens ranges were expanded and are used more commonly.

Frames

In the 1980s, everything was big and bold, acetate was everwhere.
In the 1990s everything went small, rectangular, shallow and minimal with a focus on metal.
The 2000s were about technology, geek chic, memory, and light metals.
In the 2010s. we moved back to acetates, styling was more about retro and vintage looks, and tortoiseshell rose in popularity.
In the 2020s, sustainability is a bigger focus with eco-friendly materials, cat eyes, and style are big and smart glasses are on the rise.

Prescriptions

For as long as I’ve been in optics, (and from the time we started testing people’s eyes for vision needs), the standard for testing has been 0.25 dioptre steps. While we moved from testing in + (plus) cyl to – (minus) cyl, the 0.25 standard measure has not changed. the standard for testing has been 0.25 dioptre steps.

Wavefront Aberrometry was introduced in the early 2000s – the ability to look at aberrations and how that impacts the prescription and vision for patients.
Labs can produce lenses to the accuracy of 0.01 dioptres – we see this with compensated powers – but ordering for most is still in 0.25 steps.
While testing and prescribing in 0.25 steps is standard for the majority of Optometrists, a study completed by NSW University recently may start to change this. They tested a group with traditional 0.25 standards and with 0.05 steps. They then made glasses up based on the 2 options. The study showed a high percentage of those who took part preferred the outcomes and glasses of 0.05 testing. Read the full study here.
While wavefront testing has been around, it is becoming more widely available and looks to be the next big change.

I can say that since starting work in the industry back in 1986, technology has indeed reshaped the way we deliver care, interact with patients, and operate our practices. It’s been a fascinating journey and there’s still so much more ahead!

I want to share as well that this issue is packed with supplier updates – many are technology-focused! We at Optipro encourage you to take the time to explore these insights, embrace the advancements, and think about how you might incorporate them into your own practice.

Enjoy the read and as always, if you have any questions, reach out through info@optipro.com.au!

Warm regards,

What's New?

Introducing Optipro Marketing Services (OMS)

Marketing That Understands Your Practice

We’re excited to launch Optipro Marketing Services (OMS) — a dedicated marketing solution designed specifically for independent optometry practices.

Combining proven marketing campaigns with over 40 years of industry knowledge, OMS helps you attract new patients, boost retention, and grow your practice with confidence.

Whether it’s your website, social media, local campaigns, or in-store promotions, OMS offers flexible services tailored to where you are — and where you want to go.

Our Full-Service Suite

EDMs/eNewsletters
Social Media
Social Media/Google Ads
SEO/SEM
Direct Mail
Website Design
PR
Blogs
Graphic Design
Product Packaging
In-store Display Materials
Out-of-home Advertising
Video Production

TECHNOLOGY: A Supplier Focus

This month we asked our Suppliers about the latest technology they are using and have included a selection of information covering what is current and new.

The Opticare ART Process

Opticare ART is not just a single step in a process or a device. It is a fully integrated multifunction advanced diagnostic tool, refined processes, and a state-of-the-art device designed to enhance the precision and efficiency of refraction.

By incorporating advanced technology, Opticare ART gathers more comprehensive data and provides greater precision for lens calculation, ensuring lenses are crafted to match the patient’s unique vision needs.

The ART provides your practice the ability to:

Test Objectively and Subjectively to a much higher accuracy – while the ART can test to 0.01D accuracy, you can use 0.25D steps Subjectively. For a more precise WRx Opticare provides optional trial lenses in 0.12D and 0.06D options to subjectively check the best prescription to provide for the best patient outcomes
Provide a day and twilight/night prescription – PRx and MRx results, and Point Spread Function allow you to verify subjectively to a patient how their vision can be improved at night. Practices have patients presenting regularly who advise they don’t feel safe or comfortable driving at night, or they feel their vision isn’t as good as in the day even with their glasses on. While around 2 out of every 10 will advise they have issues with night vision, those using ART have found around 1 in 10 will have a significant difference requiring a different prescription
Have control of the prescription you use – continue to use 0.25D or use 0.12D or 0.06D trial lenses for more precise outcomes with your subjective prescription. This means you can check the vision and have control over what you provide your patients

Opticare provides support so your practice can introduce ART effectively with great patient outcomes by:

Working with you to build a customer journey that suits your practice and your patients
Building marketing material including social media posts, website information and banners and imagery for your shopfront or advertising
Training your team to ensure an easy introduction and ongoing support

If you are interested in viewing the ART and talking to one of our team about it, you can:

Contact us via email or phone (info@opticare.com.au / 1800 251 852)
Visit our stand at ODMA (Booth 149) – booking a time will ensure you get time with our team to test and discuss the ART

Explore Next-Level Retinal Imaging
— and Save!

The Huvitz HOCT-1/1F is a powerful all-in-one OCT and fundus imaging system that delivers fast, high-resolution scans in a compact design. For a limited time, Opticare is offering a $3,000 rebate on units ordered and paid by 31 July 2025.
*T&Cs apply.

Bausch + Lomb's ULTRA® ONE DAY Multifocal

Outstanding Comfort All Day and All Month

Technology has revolutionised our lifestyle, and in an age where we spend more time plugged in than powered down, we need a new contact lens that will let you embrace the digital age.

Bausch + Lomb ULTRA contact lenses provide an exceptional combination of comfort, vision and health for your digital lifestyle. With its unique MoistureSeal™ technology Bausch + Lomb ULTRA contact lens offers moisture retention for a full 16 hours, and it helps to prevent dehydration blur. Ultra soft, ultra breathable contact lenses suitable for all-day wear and for up to 7-days extended wear, replaced on a monthly basis.*

*As prescribed by an eye care professional.

ULTRA For Presbyopia

Bausch + Lomb ULTRA for Presbyopia offers an exceptional comfort united with a proven multifocal design. Bausch + Lomb ULTRA with MoistureSeal™ technology for exceptional end-of-day comfort.

The 3-Zone Progressive™ Design delivers outstanding near, intermediate and distance vision. It provides a smooth, quick transition that lets you see clearly even as your eyes change focus from one zone to another, without blurriness. A design that gives you clarity in real-world experiences.

The Ergo Profile Tools from Hilcovision

Hilco have a range of pliers that have been designed with ergonomics, technology, and use considered. The ErgoProfile range was created by eyecare professionals for eyecare professionals.

The range available through Hilco includes the following features:

Ergonomic, co-molded handles for anti-slip and comfortable grip
Magnetic handles for convenient access and granting maximum visibility in a resting position
Jaws constructed in a ready to use position for maximum efficiency
Peace of mind with their pliers lifetime warranty

ODMA Pre-Sale Offer

With ODMA Fair in June fast approaching, Rimoptics is giving Optipro members a head start with an exclusive pre-show deal. Check out the offer below and stock up while it lasts!

Tree Spectacles — where minimalism meets modernity in optical frames

Tree Spectacles first launched at Mido in 2012, the result of innovative, forward-thinking R&D to create niche ‘Made in Italy’ products
Frames were created where layers of wood were ‘sandwiched’ with carbon fibre – a design innovation which was quickly praised and patented for its lightness, flexibility and unique beauty
Today, the company produces a wide range of collections with new releases in Japanese titanium and Mazzucchelli’s bio-based M49 acetate
The Japanese titanium allow Tree to achieve a very high level of design in their products – it gives the opportunity to make products with very thin construction which maintain exceptional robustness, durability and flexibility as well as thicker frames that are still very comfortable to wear
These premium materials ensure durability, comfort, and a luxurious feel which showcase the brand’s commitment to both aesthetics and functionality
The acetate that Tree use for their frames are not obtained from oil – there origin is completely natural and enclosed in cotton flower
In Tree’s “Colouristic” collection it’s the finer details that truly shine – the play of colour, the two-tone finishes or the precision with which they’ve milled and crafted each material. All of these design and technology elements come together to form designs that they consider truly groundbreaking

Order new frames, get rewarded!

Frames Etc is turning your next frame order into a win — receive a $200 Visa Gift Card when you place a qualifying order on their latest styles!

Capricornia’s Extended Depth-Of-Focus (EDOF) SEED contact lenses

There is an increasing number of presbyopes wearing contact lenses today. SEED has been striving to meet their demands for good vision at all visual distances regardless of environment, so they can see clearly for every occasion. Working jointly with the Brien Holden Vision Institute, a world-renowned research institution, SEED is now able to offer an innovative contact lens for presbyopia.

The Brien Holden Vision Institute and SEED have developed an algorithm that unlocks the full potential of optical characteristics (lens performance) and visual properties (visual acuity for users). They have applied this to lens design to develop a unique EDOF lens that minimises variability in visual performance at varying distances, the major limitation of conventional bifocal contact lenses.

Factors such as varying visual distances and changing pupil size can affect the stability of visual performance of conventional bifocal contact lenses.

Welcome to
In Focus!

Table of Contents

What's New?

The Opticare ART Process

Bausch + Lomb's ULTRA® ONE DAY Multifocal

The Ergo Profile Tools from Hilcovision

ODMA Pre-Sale Offer

Tree Spectacles — where minimalism meets modernity in optical frames

Capricornia’s Extended Depth-Of-Focus (EDOF) SEED contact lenses

Members

Suppliers

Welcome to In Focus!

Table of Contents

What's New?

The Opticare ART Process

Bausch + Lomb's ULTRA® ONE DAY Multifocal

The Ergo Profile Tools from Hilcovision

ODMA Pre-Sale Offer

Tree Spectacles — where minimalism meets modernity in optical frames

Capricornia’s Extended Depth-Of-Focus (EDOF) SEED contact lenses

Members

Suppliers

Welcome to
In Focus!