Vision research in community optical practices (e.g., product testing and development, including bsc and MSC theses; opportunities for big data studies)

In the optometrists’ offices, we usually do not expect to find research setups or laboratory instruments. There is however an increasing practice to host students who work on their Bachelor‐ and Master theses, gathering data for their studies. This combination is beneficial for the staff, as they refresh the knowledge in research; it is beneficial for patients, because many times, new / innovative equipment can be utilised during a standard exam. And it is beneficial for the students, since they have access to consenting patients, a non‐recruited group of subjects, which comprises a much more valid sample for observational studies then making recruitment at eye clinics or hospitals.

Ethical approval for the studies is usually obtained via university, but in some countries, it is possible to get it via practice, provided the supervisor fulfils the requirements.

In some instances, testing of new instruments can be done in optometric practices, providing the clinicians with insights of research and development, enabling them to give valuable input to industry.

Beside regular occupational vision tests, also assessment of visual function in special groups, like certain professions can be made (ex. Policemen, Firemen, Aircraft pilots, Astronauts). This way, the data about speciality needs can be collected and used for academic research.

Recent developments of AI‐assisted diagnostics and telemedicine have also addressed optometric practices – for example, the recently approved I‐screen programme, which is funded by European Commission via Horizon 22, employs pilot optometric practices throughout Europe as primary sites of patient acquisition. During regular eye‐exams, patients are screened with OCTs for early forms of dry age‐related macular degeneration. This group of retinal diseases is increasing in prevalence and treatment options are slowly becoming available. However, if patients with relevant clinical signs are not discovered timely, the outcome of the treatment is not as good, or treatment is not applicable at all. Again, an advantage of such studies is that they can provide information on the prevalences of ocular conditions in a community sample that better reflects the population than patients visiting clinics or hospitals.