EP7: Adapting to Change: Empowering Optical Dispensers Through Continuing Professional Development (CPD) with April Petrusma

The Focused View: Empowering Eye Care Professionals

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In this episode, Michael Nasser invites April Petrusma, CEO of Optical Dispenser Australia (ODA) and Optical teacher at ACOD - Australianasian College of Optical Dispensing, to share her extensive experience in the optical dispensing industry and discuss the importance of Continuing Professional Development (CPD) in adapting to change and creating new opportunities in optometry practice.

During the conversation, Michael and April delve into the impact of regulations and deregulation in the industry, the role of CPD in improving patient care, and the evolving landscape of optical dispensing. April also shares her insights into how technology and AI are transforming the eye care industry and emphasizes the necessity for professionals to stay current with these changes.

April holds a degree in visual communication design and is an experienced Optical Dispenser with a high level of expertise in optics, business management, and tertiary education. After 12 years of working in graphic design and photography, April switched and focused on a different kind of view—health care. April is now committed to professional excellence and ensuring the optical dispensing profession reaches its full potential.
Key Topics with Timestamps:

4:18 - April Petrusma's career background

6:04 - Roles of ACOD and ODA in the optical industry

8:46 - Regulation and Deregulation impact

14:23 - The value of Continuing Professional Development (CPD)

16:01 - Accessibility and evolution of CPD opportunities

16:48 - ODA’s role in CPD for optical dispensers

21:26 - The future of CPD for professionalism and dispensers

22:54 - CPD’s effect on patient care, team culture and overall quality of service

27:53 - Real-life examples of CPD influence

29:42 - CPD career opportunities in the optical industry

32:24 - Broadening career horizons through CPD

32:28 - Never stop seeking out learning opportunities

34:59 - Technology and AI in optometry

37:36 - Constantly refine skills and knowledge to remain current

Mentioned Resources:

ODA

ACOD

2025 ODA International Conference’ in SYDNEY

O-Show24

EP5: Elevate Your Practice: Topic 3 - Building Effective Teams

Connect with April Petrusma:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/april-petrusma-5560097a/

Email: [e-mail]

Learn More About Us:

Website: https://www.thefocusedview.com.au/

Email: [e-mail]

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/the-focused-view

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thefocusedview/

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