June 4, 2025As we celebrate Orthoptics Awareness Week and this year’s theme, “I am an Orthoptist,” we acknowledge the essential contributions orthoptists make to eye health every day. With expert knowledge, innovation, and compassion, they leave a lasting impact on every patient they care for.
Orthoptists are highly trained allied health professionals who play a vital role in the assessment, diagnosis, and management of eye and vision disorders. At Broadmeadows Hospital, they are an integral part of the ophthalmology team, working closely with ophthalmologists to deliver high-quality, patient-centred care.
Orthoptists specialise in evaluating the visual system, monitoring eye development, and managing eye movement disorders. They care for a wide range of conditions, including cataracts, glaucoma, diabetic eye disease, macular degeneration, and neurological visual disorders. Their responsibilities include performing diagnostic tests, contributing to personalised treatment plans, and supporting areas such as low vision care, vision rehabilitation, and paediatric eye health.
They support both surgical and non-surgical treatment pathways – preparing patients for procedures, conducting pre- and post-operative assessments, and providing ongoing education and support throughout the patient journey.
The Orthoptic team at Broadmeadows Hospital consists of four permanent staff, Leyla Avci, Zeina Dayoub, Anastasia Giantsis, and Hiba Casado, and three experienced locum orthoptists, Ozlem Akdemir, Mary Ochana, and Yasmine Hazim. Each team member brings unique expertise and a shared commitment to exceptional patient care.
The team is also deeply involved in education and training, offering clinical placements and hands-on learning opportunities. They regularly support orthoptic, medical, and optometry students in developing essential skills.
Leyla Avci says, “I am an orthoptist, and I find great personal fulfillment in helping patients enhance their vision and overall quality of life.”
“One of the most rewarding aspects of being an orthoptist is forming lasting connections with patients throughout their eye care journey,” adds Anastasia Giantsis.
Hiba Casado shares, “I enjoy working in the eye clinic – it’s a supportive environment where you’re constantly learning and growing.”
The value of orthoptists is also recognised by their medical colleagues. Dr Jack Kane, one of the ophthalmologists at Broadmeadows Hospital, says, “Our orthoptists are the backbone of the ophthalmology service.”
United in their commitment to evidence-based and compassionate care, the orthoptic team at Broadmeadows Hospital plays a vital role in improving vision and enhancing patients’ quality of life.
From all of us at Northern Health, happy Orthoptics Awareness Week and thank you for all that you do!
Pictured in featured image (L-R): Leyla Avci (sitting), Zeina Dayoub (standing), Anastasia Giantsis (standing) and Hiba Casado (sitting).
