Seeing eye to eye on collaborative care

In the field of eye health, no one works alone. Just ask Professor Frank Martin AM, an acclaimed paediatric ophthalmologist who has been protecting the eyesight of Aussie kids for more than 50 years.  
 
Frank is the generous donor behind the UTS Frank Martin Orthoptics Award, which has provided financial support for an exceptional commencing Master of Orthoptics student every year since 2018. The award reflects Frank’s belief that orthoptists and ophthalmologists can achieve more together than they can apart.  
 
Ophthalmologists are medical doctors who specialise in eye diseases, while orthoptists are eye care specialists with a focus on eye movement and vision disorders. In the 1970s, Frank was one of the first ophthalmologists in Sydney to employ a full-time orthoptist in his practice.  
 
“They would take the lead on patient history and conducting key tests, so by the time I saw the patient, I was ready to progress their care,” he says.  

Frank was ahead of his time. Today, most ophthalmology practices include orthoptics, which has evolved to incorporate the use of cutting-edge diagnostic technologies.  
 
This evolution has only increased what Frank sees as the profession’s value. He now believes that orthoptist-led clinics will be key to sharing Australia’s growing eye health burden. 
 
When UTS launched the Master of Orthoptics in 2015, the only degree of its kind in the southern hemisphere, Frank was quick to establish the Frank Martin Orthoptics Award to support it. He also volunteers as Chair of the UTS Orthoptics Industry Advisory Board, ensuring the course keeps pace with industry need.   
 
“By contributing funds, time and expertise, Frank is helping to shape the future of the orthoptics profession in Australia,” says Head of UTS Orthoptics, Associate Professor Amanda French. 
 
“With his support, UTS graduates will have the skills to lead it.” 

“Together we can do so much”