This subject introduces students to the importance of quality, efficient, patient-centred delivery of eye health services. Students will develop an understanding of the relationship between health policies, evidence-based practice and quality improvement. Using an enquiry-based learning program, students will learn how to design, implement and evaluate quality improvement programs in clinical settings. Students will also develop an appreciation for the numerous issues, drivers, demands, complexities and consequent impacts related to change and improvement in the clinical setting.
Orthoptic graduates are expected to have understanding of and be able to implement a service management program to monitor and treat eye disease, and critically evaluate, update and improve the program through engaging in an ongoing cycle of review, auditing and quality reporting to value add to service and service-delivery for patients.
Key Learning Outcome 1
Examine the structure and function of the Australian Health Care system.
Enabling Outcomes:
a. Differentiate and evaluate the relationships between the various components of the health care system, types (or degrees) of illness that require support and the health care funding models and policy drivers.
b. Identify professional bodies and organisations responsible for changes in eye health care.
c. Explain healthcare issues as they relate to quality, efficiency and equity.
d. Examine the burden of eye disease and evaluate its impact on healthcare services.
e. Examine workforce capacity and predict implications related to workforce
Key Learning Outcome 2
Design an alternative model of eye health care which aims to improve patient care and service efficiency.
Enabling Outcomes:
a. Describe models of eye health care/ pathways of health care including principles of practice.
b. Use an evidence based approach to evaluate service provision and identify gaps and weaknesses in current models of care
c. Critically review clinical protocols and procedures used in eye health care
d. Apply relevant formulae to resolve issues in patient progression through clinical services.
The subject includes 5 online modules which you should complete in the order presented.
Start by watching the Introductory Video which explains how the subject works.
The creation of this subject was coordinated by Dr Konstandina (Connie) Koklanis (B.Orth, Phd) and content created by staff in the Department of Clinical Vision Sciences, La Trobe University. The revised online content was created by Dr Meri Vukicevic (B.Orth, Phd)