ABDO

ABDO, the Association of British Dispensing Opticians, is the professional body for dispensing opticians. It represents and supports the profession; it is not the statutory regulator. Dispensing opticians are healthcare professionals registered with the General Optical Council (GOC). ABDO states that a qualified dispensing optician completes at least three years of academic and practical training, and that only GOC-registered dispensing opticians may use the protected title in the UK. Patients can check registration through the GOC.

In an independent Glasgow practice, a dispensing optician’s central role is to advise on, fit and supply spectacles and lenses suited to a person’s visual, work, lifestyle and leisure needs. This can include frame fit and lens choices for driving, work, sport or screen use. Dispensing opticians may also advise on protective eyewear, children’s spectacles and low-vision aids, within their competence and the services available. Their advice is individual, not a guarantee that a product will suit everyone or correct every visual difficulty.

A dispensing optician is distinct from the optometrist who conducts an eye examination. ABDO says dispensing opticians can give guidance on common eye conditions and identify concerns requiring referral, including urgent care. This advice does not substitute for an eye examination or justify delaying contact with a clinician about worrying symptoms. Additional roles require further training: a dispensing optician may gain a qualification to register as a contact lens optician. Do not assume every dispensing optician provides contact lens services or that a service is available at a Glasgow practice; ask.