21st Century Eye Care in the UK: Past, Present, and Future - Collaborative and Beyond
Research Institute / Research Centre Seminar
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Date
06 Nov 2025
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Organiser
Research Centre for SHARP Vision
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Time
11:00 - 12:30
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Venue
CD302, 3/F, Wing CD, PolyU Map
Speaker
Mr GAO Yuan
Enquiry
Miss Esther Cheung 34002312 info.rcsv@polyu.edu.hk
Summary
Reflecting on changes over the post-pandemic decade, the lecture highlights the newest developments and trends, outlines what to expect next, and considers the global potential for optometrists—working with consultant ophthalmologists, ophthalmic nurse practitioners, vision scientists, and other ophthalmic professionals—to lead eye-care delivery in partnership and beyond. This session will also include messages from different key roles from UK eye care, including consultant ophthalmologist, a university lecturer, vision scientist, and representatives from the College of Optometrists, the Royal College of Ophthalmologists, to provide a rounded perspective.
Keynote Speaker
Mr GAO Yuan
Specialist Optometrist, Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust, United Kingdom
Yuan Gao is an optometrist at Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust. He holds a Bachelor of Optometry degree from ARU and a Master of Science degree in Ophthalmology from University College London Institute of Ophthalmology. He received his training at Western Eye Hospital, part of the Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust, and is currently working in various eye clinics, including those for glaucoma, cornea, contact lenses, and pediatric eye care. He is also involved in research projects with the Imperial College Ophthalmology Research Group (ICORG). His broad range of clinical interests encompasses primary eye care, myopia control, spectacle prescriptions, contact lenses, dry eye, presbyopia, and the optometric management of eye conditions, including pre- and post-operative assessments for surgeries such as cataracts, glaucoma, and refractive surgeries. He collaborates closely and co-manages certain eye conditions with other consulting ophthalmologists at Imperial College Healthcare in London. In 2024, Yuan was elected as a council member for the College of Optometrists. In this role, he represents and advocates for the optometry profession, contributing to the advancement of standards and practices in the field.
