About Us
Many of the eye conditions leading to blindness and vision loss are preventable or treatable. Australia has a large portion of its population residing outside major cities, with nearly 20% living in over 1500 rural and remote communities with fewer than 5000 residents.
Lions Outback Vision was established in 2010 with the support of the Lions Eye Institute and the University of Western Australia. We are a small but dedicated team of eye health professionals that are firmly committed to improving the eye health of rural, remote and Indigenous West Australians.
We believe that all Australians should be able to access comprehensive and appropriate eye health care services irrespective of where they may live. We currently provide specialist eye health care services throughout the Pilbara, Kimberley, Goldfields, Midwest and Great Southern regions of Western Australia.
A brief timeline
Together with our Partners and Supporters, we aim to further develop and build the capacity of local health care providers and planners to deliver accessible, equitable, effective and culturally appropriate eye health care programmes and services to regional, remote and Indigenous West Australian’s.
Our Achievements
Improved Service Provision
Year on year increase in our visits to community via the Vision Van and monthly clinics in regional hospitals.
Innovative Service Delivery
From the introduction of the Outback Vision van in 2016, the completion of the Kimberley Hub in 2021, increased Telehealth services and integration of AI technology for real time review LOV is embracing new opportunities for service delivery.
Resourcing for Better Eye Health Outcomes
Broome based ophthalmic consultants, nurse and optometrists providing services to the North West. Introduction of Unaccredited Registrar positions to support the North West and regional outpatient services.
Training and Education
Introducing Accredited Registrar training positions into regional locations. Advocated for an Optometry School at UWA and now hosting trainee placements. Delivered the first Artificial Intelligence in Indigenous Healthcare Conference in Broome in 2023 attracting international, national and state speakers and delegates.
Advocacy
Improve the training and accreditation pathway for International Medical Graduates. Collaboration to introduce and accredited ophthalmic nurse training course in WA. Working with Aboriginal Medical Services to integrate health records.