Association of Optometrists
The Association of Optometrists is the leading representative membership organisation for optometrists in the United Kingdom.
It supports over 82% of practising optometrists to fulfil their professional roles to protect the nation’s eye health.
Activities and services
The Association provides a range of professional services and products to its members, including:- Indemnity insurance
- Legal representation and advice
- Continuing education and training
- Annual conferences, events and webinars
- News, online and print, under the brand title Optometry Today
- Political lobbying
History
The organisation traces its history back to 1946. when the Institute of Ophthalmic Opticians and the Joint Council of Qualified Opticians, were incorporated into The Association of Optical Practitioners.In 1986, the organisation renamed to the Association of Optometrists. The organisation retains use of the 'AOP' acronym.
In 2017 the organisation reported it had grown to "17,000+ members", "representing 80% of UK optometrists".