Ophthalmic Design & Dispensing (OPDD)

Designed to introduce the student to the field of Ophthalmic Dispensing, this course will provide a general overview of optical theory and is intended to provide the student with a basis for more advanced study. The course will include segments of basic lens theory, normal and abnormal vision, the history of lenses and eyeglasses, an introduction to prism, and a determination of lens power at any point of a lens. The laboratory component will include introduction to the lensometer, marking and blocking devices, mechanical edging equipment and hand edgers, as well as an overview of the fabrication process.

This course will deal with the relationship between spectacles and the patient's visual needs. Topics shall include frame types and materials and the proper fitting and adjusting of spectacles, determination of lens thickness and weight, and vertical prism imbalance at the reading level. The laboratory segment shall include work in neutralization, fabrication of multifocal spectacles, pattern making, tinting, and lab equipment operation and maintenance.

A continuation of Ophthalmic Dispensing I, discussion will include comprehensive spectacle verification, American National Standards Institute (A.N.S.I.)standards, lenses and frames for high powered prescriptions, managing presbyopia, occupational and lifestyle analysis and lens application, specialized absorptive lenses and sports and safety eyewear. The course will also include a review for the American Board of Opticianry (A.B.O.) exam.

A continuation of Ophthalmic Dispensing II, to include segments on Low Vision, prescription analysis, critical thinking and problem-solving skills, marketing fashion eyewear, dispensing progressive addition lenses, record keeping, professional ethics and liability. Discussion of and preparation for the State Practical Exam will be included.

This course is designed to prepare the Ophthalmic Design and Dispensing student for the challenges of managing or operating an Optical business. Topics will include business organization, financial management, purchase, sale or merger of a business, marketing, advertising, accounting procedures, third party billing, inventory control, management skills, and patient/ client relations.

This course is designed to introduce the most commonly used ophthalmic devices and their use. It will explore single vision, bifocal, trifocal and progressive lenses commonly used in ophthalmic practice. Special emphasis will be placed on the physical properties of lens materials including index of refraction, absorptive ability, lens coatings and special applications of lens materials. It will include the discussion of the lens surfacing process and the surfacing laboratory. Frame materials, design, selection, and dispensing will be discussed.

A continuation of OPDD 1010 with special emphasis on unique optical devices and their function. This course will increase hands on experience in optical finishing skills, including edging, hand edging, drilling, grooving and inserting lenses. Basic frame adjustment and bench alignment shall also be included. Included in this course will be a mandatory optical clinic rotation.

A continuation of OPDD 1011, to include rimless, semi-rimless, specialty eyewear and more advanced spectacle fabrication. It will include the use of more advanced spectacle fabrication machinery and instruments. Fabrication of trifocals, and progressive addition lenses will be included. Additional didactic and practical application of frame adjusting techniques will be presented. Included in this course will be a mandatory Optical Clinic rotation.

An introduction to the fitting of contact lenses; outlining the history of contact lenses and the development of new materials. Advantages and disadvantages of these materials will be outlined, as well as indications and contraindications to contact lens wear. Emphasis is placed on rigid lens fitting philosophies and acquisition of basic skills with related instrumentation.

Continuation of OPDD 1020, with increased attention to lens selection and design. Fitting philosophies of hydrophilic and oxygen permeable lenses are put into practice, and follow-up care is stressed. Diagnostic as well as insertion and removal skills are increased.

Continuation of OPDD 1021, dealing mainly with special fitting problems and special lens designs. Practice management techniques are included, as well as continued use of all needed instrumentation.

This course is designed to familiarize the student with a wide range of physiological disorders and diseases that lead to significant vision loss, and the optical and non-optical devices used to provide correction. Emphasis will be placed on the use of telescopic, magnifiers, illuminating devices, and a list of resources for the partially sighted patient.

Students are placed in area optical firms licensed by the State of Connecticut, Department of Health Services, under the direct supervision of a licensed optician. This summer practicum is designed to provide more diverse practical experience to the student/apprentice optician. Supervision of this program will include job site visits by the college faculty member and both employer and faculty evaluation of student's performance. Students will be required to complete an on-campus orientation to the Optical and Contact Lens Clinics, and will be required to keep a log of their daily activities in the off-campus work place.