Supporting the Growth of Orthoptic Education Worldwide

Guidance and Tools to Establish Orthoptic Training Programs

Introduction

The International Orthoptic Association (IOA) is dedicated to supporting the establishment of new orthoptic programs in regions where training opportunities are limited or emerging. By providing essential resources, tools, and guidance, the IOA aims to foster the growth of orthoptic education globally, ensuring access to high-quality vision care in underserved areas.

What We Offer

Guidance for Program Development
- Comprehensive step-by-step resources to help institutions plan, launch, and sustain orthoptic education programs.
- Support for designing curricula that align with international educational standards and meet the specific needs of local healthcare systems.
Framework for Educational Standards
- Access to the IOA Educational Standards to ensure consistency in core competencies, clinical training, and theoretical knowledge for orthoptic students.
- Resources to help new programs meet accreditation requirements and gain professional recognition.
Mentorship and Consultation
- The IOA connects new programs with experienced mentors—orthoptic educators and professionals—who provide ongoing support and guidance during program development.
- Assistance with faculty development to ensure qualified educators are prepared to deliver high-quality training.
Access to Teaching Materials and Tools
- Sample course outlines, teaching guides, and clinical assessment tools to facilitate program implementation.
- Resources for practical skills training, including clinical procedures, diagnostic techniques, and patient management strategies.
Collaboration and Partnerships
- Opportunities to collaborate with existing orthoptic programs, national associations, and global stakeholders to share expertise and resources.
- Support for forming partnerships with hospitals, universities, and healthcare providers to ensure clinical training opportunities for students.

Why This Matters

The development of new orthoptic programs is essential to:

Address global shortages of orthoptic professionals in underserved regions.
Improve access to specialized eye care services, including amblyopia management, strabismus treatment, and vision screening.
Empower local communities by training homegrown professionals who understand the specific needs of their populations.

Strategic Goals

Aligned with the IOA’s Strategic Plan, this initiative aims to:

Support the establishment of at least one new orthoptic program in emerging regions over the next four years.
Ensure programs are equipped with the resources and expertise needed to provide sustainable, high-quality training.
Advocate for the inclusion of orthoptic education within national healthcare strategies to enhance the global eye care workforce.

Get Involved

Are you looking to establish or develop an orthoptic program? The IOA is here to help. We welcome collaboration with educators, institutions, and healthcare organizations interested in expanding orthoptic education.

📧 For more information or to request resources, please contact:
IOA International Cooperation Program Coordinators
Sheila Chamberlin – usa@internationalorthoptics.org
Daisy Godts – belgium@internationalorthoptics.org