Orthoptists play a key role in assessing children and adults that approach the Sydney Eye Hospital with eye turns and disorders affecting the eye movements.
We are university trained allied health professionals that specialise in providing thorough assessments of alignment of the eyes, movement of the eyes, and the ability of the eyes to work together. Orthoptists conservatively manage symptoms of double vision or eye strain that patients may experience from disorders affecting the function of their eye muscles or ability of their eyes to work together. By working with patients and understanding their needs, Orthoptists are able to help patients manage their symptoms and minimise the impact symptoms have on their daily activities and general wellbeing.
Melanie Lai (Head Orthoptist), Maria Tran (Orthoptist), Jodie Attard (Acting Orthoptic Student Educator), Sally Steenbeek (Orthoptist)
Orthoptists are also highly skilled in the area of treating amblyopia (or lazy eye) in children. Up until the age of 8 years, the visual system of a child is still developing. It is crucial that any reduction in vision is detected and treated as soon as possible to help the child’s vision and visual system to develop normally. If a vision defect is not found until later in childhood, it reduces the potential for normal vision following treatment. When a vision defect is found, the orthoptist and ophthalmologist work together with the child and their parents to treat and improve the child’s vision.
The Sydney Eye Orthoptists have a clinic dedicated to screening children to promote early detection of vision defects, eye turns, and eye muscle disorders that may impact a child’s vision and visual development. We also take part in the NSW Health State-wide preschool vision screening program that aims to provide all 4 year olds with a free vision screening and access to care when vision defects are found.
Orthoptists also have expertise in using specialty diagnostic equipment for assessment of chronic and age related eye conditions including cataracts, glaucoma, retinal conditions, macular degeneration, and diabetic eye disease.
The Sydney Eye Hospital Orthoptic department accepts referrals from optometrists, family doctors, and private ophthalmology clinics.
How You Can Support the Orthoptic Department
The life-changing work of the Orthoptic Department at Sydney Eye Hospital is made possible thanks to the generosity of our donors. From cutting-edge diagnostic tools to innovative treatment programs, your support helps ensure patients receive the highest quality care.
Donations to the Sydney Eye Hospital Foundation directly fund specialist equipment and resources that assist our Orthoptists in diagnosing and treating complex eye conditions. This includes advanced imaging technology that allows for early detection of rare conditions, like those seen in young patients such as Jake.
By contributing to the Foundation, you’re helping patients of all ages access world-class eye care and giving them the best chance at a brighter, clearer future.
Donate today to support the Orthoptic Department and help transform lives.
