Professional Communication in English: Medical Opticians

Language barriers in the healthcare can lead to misunderstandings and/or errors, especially when circumstances require health care workers to speak a language other than their own mother tongue. That is why good communication skills are at the core of the modern optometric practice. The present textbook is customized to prepare undergraduate and postgraduate students for a large variety of patient encounters in their clinical practice in English as the universal language of professional communication.

Originally designed by the authors for medical opticians, this comprehensive book is highly recommended for those who dedicate their career to eye health - technical opticians, medical opticians, optometrists, ophthalmologists and nurses working in ophthalmology practices. The textbook provides key terms in authentic context, situational lessons and role play activities as effective approaches in developing the communicative skills of reading, listening, speaking and writing skills at levels B1 - B2 according to the Common European Framework of Reference for languages.

Review
Acknowledgements
Anatomy of the eye
The eyeball
The eyelids
Optical equipment
Vision tests and eye health
Optical hand tools and equipment
Central v/s peripheral vision
Common eye disorders
Common eye disorders: macular degeneration, dry eyes
Eyeware accessories: choosing frames
Contact lens fitting and care
Eye care and prophylaxis
Interacting with clients
Dealing with prescriptions
Revision
Human body systems in relation to vision health
Light and colour perception
Vision loss
Professions in eye care
The profile of a good optician
Eye protection: sunwear, safety and protective eyewear
Causes and prevention of vision loss
Methods for vision correction
Lenses: materials and design
Myopia management
Mastering communication with clients
Visual phenomena and optical illusions
Revision
Mock exam
Appendix I. Ophthalmic abbreviations
Appendix II. Sample conversation with a customer
Audioscripts
References