Why take part in CET/CPD?
Optometry, like any medical profession, is constantly changing. New research and developments in the field mean that what new optometry students are taught is not necessarily the same things that were taught 20 years ago. When optometrists finish their formal training it is vital that they keep themselves up to date about any new research, techniques and guidelines in order to maintain a high standard across the entire profession. In many parts of the world, this is done using CPD (Continuing Professional Development), or CET (Continuing Education and Training). CET/CPD is a requirement of many governing bodies throughout the world and where it is not, it is sure to be very soon!
CET/CPD can be in the form of :
- conference attendance
- accredited practical workshops
- and by reading up to date articles and completing tests, with each article/test normally worth 1 or 2 points.
Points accrued are used in many countries to maintain registration and the number of points required varies from country to country. In the UK for example, 36 points must be gained over 3 years (equivalent of 1 point per month).
OptoCET CPD is split into four levels, which mirror as closely as possible the World Council of Optometry's core competency model. Members of the original TOAonline site will notice a change in CET level categories and all users are encouraged to familiarise themselves with our new system.
It is important to note that only members who are part of an organisation that has accredited OptoCET as an official CET provider will be able to claim points towards their registration. Please check with your professional organisation to see if OptoCET has been accredited. Optometrists in the UK, Canada, Australia and the USA cannot currently claim points by completing CET on OptoCET. There are no plans to accredit OptoCET in these countries at this time.
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Click here for a brief guide to OptoCET CPD levels. |
