Clinical Excellence in Modern Optometry: Science, Strategy & Outcomes

At S.R.Gopal Rao Opticians & Optometrists, clinical excellence has always been a balance of science, and responsibility. This philosophy shaped the recent panel discussion on Clinical Excellence in Modern Optometry, organised by Essilor, with a focused dialogue on one of today’s most pressing concerns — the rapid progression of myopia in children.

Representing SRGR on the panel were Hemanth Manay, CEO, and Triveni, Chief Optometrist. They were joined by academic leaders Namratha Hegde and Vandana from Sankara College Of Optometry, reinforcing the importance of collaboration between clinical practice and education.

Why early intervention matters

A key theme throughout the discussion was urgency. Myopia is projected to affect nearly 50% of the world’s population by 2050 — meaning every second person may need vision correction. The panel highlighted that delaying the onset of myopia by even one year can reduce long-term progression significantly, comparable to gaining 2–3 years of effective control.

Counselling as a clinical responsibility

Speaking from SRGR’s decades of experience, the panel emphasised that myopia management does not begin with lenses — it begins with counselling. Taking time to educate parents, explain progression risks, and align on long-term care was identified as one of the most impactful clinical interventions.

“Year on year, month on month, we have seen myopia cases increase. Especially after COVID, the scale has gone up significantly, and many parents don’t even realise that their child could have myopia.” ~ Hemanth Manay, CEO, S.R.Gopal Rao Opticians & Optometrists.

This perspective reflected SRGR’s belief that trust, clarity, and continuity of care are as critical as clinical tools.

Building future-ready optometry practices

For young optometrists, the discussion offered grounded advice on setting up myopia management clinics:stay committed to the basics, practice with scientific integrity, and let passion for the profession guide growth — not shortcuts.

Addressing behaviour in a digital-first world

With over 5.32 billion unique mobile phone users globally, behavioural factors are now inseparable from clinical outcomes. The panel reinforced simple, evidence-backed practices:

• Increased outdoor play and sunlight exposure

• The 20-20-20 rule

• Balanced nutrition

• Mindful regulation of screen time for children, distance & size matters here - TVs are better than phones or tablets

Science-backed innovation

The panel also highlighted recent research and innovations in myopia management, including Stellest lenses, underscoring the role of evidence-based solutions when integrated into ethical, patient-first clinical care.

The Takeaway: Clinical excellence in modern optometry lies not in isolated solutions, but in a holistic approach — combining science, counselling, behaviour, and long-term vision care, a philosophy deeply embedded in SRGR’s practice.