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Episode 30: Digital Health and the Evolving Scope of Optometry with Nicola Mountford




What does Digital health really mean in the context of optometry beyond the buzzwords? Nicola Mountford unpacks one of the most relevant topics in optometry as technology continues to reshape the healthcare landscape.

 

In this episode, Michael Nasser is joined by Nicola Mountford, Optometry Advancement Advisor at Optometry Australia, to explore the evolving role of digital health in optometry. Nicola breaks down the practical applications of digital tools in a clinical setting, how it's transforming the way optometrists practice, and how the industry can adapt to stay relevant and integrated into Australia's broader healthcare ecosystem.


Nicola Mountford has enjoyed a diverse and fulfilling career in Optometry and remains optimistic about the future of this remarkable profession. Her extensive experience spans multiple independent practices and clinical roles within both anterior and posterior-focused ophthalmology clinics. Nicola has also contributed to the development of future professionals through her role supervising student optometrists and was appointed to the optometry panel of the Queensland Civil and Administrative Tribunal.


In addition to her ongoing clinical work, Nicola currently serves as an advisor for Optometry Australia, focusing on the evolving scope of practice and digital health. She is deeply passionate about expanding the profession’s role within the broader healthcare system to enhance patient care and outcomes.


Key Topics with Timestamps:

1:54 - Nicola's optometry background and her work at Optometry Australia

4:13  - What digital health really means and why it matters for optometrists

5:45 - Benefits of digital health to both patients and independent practices

10:16 - Emerging technologies in optometric practice

12:17 - Government’s digital health roadmap

18:27 - The state of My Health Record in optometry: Access, limitations, and future plans

21:48 - Defining data terminology in optometry: Why language matters

25:29 - Real-world impact of interoperable health records

27:32 - The risk of being left behind if optometry doesn't evolve with digital systems

29:33 - Frustrations and hesitations to digital health evolution

33:49 - Data privacy concerns and how patient empowerment helps address them

36:47 - The most exciting part of digital health

38:59 - Integrating digital health to optometry: Where to start?


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Thank you for joining us in this episode of The Focused View Podcast. If you enjoyed this episode, give us a 5-Star rating, and leave a review on Apple Podcast and Spotify to help us reach even more eye care professionals and build a community of innovation and see new opportunities within the optical industry. Talk with you next time!

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