FAQ

Updated 07/04/2020

Should my optometry practice still be opened during this time?
  • Optometry Australia recommends practices to cease normal trading and routine eye examinations in order to reduce the risk of infection transmission. If practices choose to remain open, it should only be for urgent cases.
  • For now (02/04/2020), the government has not deemed optometry as a "non-essential", therefore optometry practices may remain open, but retail spaces need to abide by the 4 square meter rule (one person for every four square meters). 

Should my patients still be wearing contact lens during this time?
  • Optometry Australia and Cornea & Contact Lens Society of Australia maintain that there is currently no evidence to suggest an increased risk of getting COVID-19 through contact lens wear. Therefore it is still safe for your patients to continue contact lens wear. However it is important emphasise good contact lens hygiene, in particular thorough hand washing before any contact lens handling.
  • Optometrists should also advise patients to cease contact lens wear if they become ill or suspect they have COVID-19.
  • For more information refer to page

Should I still measure IOPs? Which method is recommended?
  • Consider measuring IOPs at a later stage, after the pandemic. 
  • If necessary, use single use/disposable tonometer probes when possible.
  • Avoid non-contact tonometry, especially in patients with conjunctivitis or flu-like symptoms

Should PPE be used when seeing patients?
  • There is a currently a global shortage of personal protective equipment (PPE) due to the emergences of COVD-19 across the globe. The information regarding use of face masks for general exams has been conflicting and confusing, and constantly evolving.
  • It is advised that in the setting of adequate PPE supplies, use of surgical mask and eye protection for the clinical as well as surgical mask for the patient may reduced asymptomatic and pre-symptomatic transmission.
  • Gloves are recommended to be worn by RANZCO, when examining patients. However the Royal College of Ophthalmologists UK currently do not recommend use of gowns or gloves.
  • Plastic Slit lamp breathe shields are recommended, but must be disinfected in between patients as the virus is viable for up to 72 hours on plastic. 


What should I do to keep my practice, my staff and patients safe? Infection Control Guidelines?

What should I do if I suspect my patient has COVID-19?
  • The current advice from the Department of Health is to provide the patient with a surgical mask (if you have access to one). Ask the patient to present their GP or emergency department immediately. (Phone ahead to warn them that a suspected COVID-19 case is coming).

Telehealth and do we get access to that?

Free online courses on COVID-19


Where can I get more information?