Section

General

This course expired on 31 December 2025. If you have completed this course, you can print your certificate here. 

This course has been replaced with our Cataract: Part 1 - Introduction course, reissued in January 2026.



Domains: Clinical practice, Communication

CPD Ref: C-101637

CPD Points: 

CPD Type: Non-interactive

Closing Date: 31 December 2025


Cataract is one of the most common ocular pathologies encountered in community practice. This three-part series explores the key areas of cataract care and aims to ensure optometrists are up to date with current practices and treatments, particularly in view of increased community involvement in pre- and postoperative care. 

The first part covers the following topics: 

  1. Meet the experts
  2. Definition and classification
  3. Pathophysiology
  4. Risk factors and incidence
  5. Assessments of cataracts in practice - including history and symptoms, visual acuity, contrast sensitivity and ocular examination
  6. Referral criteria.

At the end of the course you can complete the CPD quiz to gain one non-interactive CPD point. 

To learn more about management principles, treatment principles and surgical techniques (including a video of phacoemulsification), go to Cataract: Part 2 – Management and Treatment.

First published: November 2020
Last reviewed: March 2022

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    Communication

    s.2 Communicate effectively with patients

    • Understand the definitions, cause and types of cataract and to be able to explain more effectively to patients about their ocular condition.

    Clinical Practice

    s.5 Keep your knowledge and skills up to date

    • Understand the common risk factors for cataract.
    s.7 Conduct appropriate assessments, examinations, treatments and referrals

    • Understand how to investigate and manage patients presenting with cataracts and when to refer appropriately.

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      When you have successfully completed the course you can download your certificate in PDF format.

      Save this document and upload it to your MyGOC account to claim your CPD points.