In this episode of the #EyeViews podcast from Eye News, host Loren Butler is joined by Consultant Ophthalmologist Dr Iain Livingstone to discuss the transformative role of mobile technology and artificial intelligence (AI) in eyecare, specifically within patient pathways for ophthalmology and optometry. The discussion begins with how a smartphone can assist an eye specialist and their patient. Dr Livingstone recounts his early innovation as a registrar, developing an app called Eyesight Test (one of the first to be CE marked) by scaling Kay's Picture Tests on his phone. This initial project affirmed his interest in mobile technology and led to the founding of Peak Vision, a technology which allows the extraction of a beautiful picture of the optic disc with zero experience, mobilising the eye clinic and enabling transatlantic retinal exams.The conversation moves to the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, where their work in peer-to-peer video conferencing and decision support rapidly mobilised a decision-support service across optometry in Scotland, particularly Central Scotland. This placed them unexpectedly in the public health space. By leveraging systems like NHS Near Me (re-labeled Attend Anywhere) and equipping optometrists with tools like the video slit lamp, the eye casualty was spread across the community.Dr Livingstone emphasises the continued focus on consolidating and maximising the link between community optometry and secondary/tertiary care. Strategies for maintaining this relationship include increasing independent prescribing and utilising simulation for training, shifting from "see one, do one, teach one" to "do one virtually a hundred times" before the first real case. The role of safety netting and understanding the attitude to risk and comfort with uncertainty are crucial in this blended care model.Discussing the origins of his involvement in digital tech, Dr Livingstone calls it his "burnout prevention part of the week" and explains it originated from the need for remote support as a first-on consultant with no juniors. The segment on patient-centered care explores the impact of mobile technology for the patient, citing a case where a patient with a cavernous sinus fistula was directed straight to neurosurgeons, bypassing the ophthalmology department, after a video consultation. However, Dr Livingstone cautions that the technology is not a panacea, noting a case where relying solely on the video call missed the crucial detail of dangerously high intraocular pressure in a young patient with a hyphaema.Regarding uptake, he notes that technology is a "totally polarizing prospect" among colleagues. While some embrace it, others see it as a distraction from an already saturated service. The lack of change in job plans to accommodate the time needed for unscheduled care and the subsequent drop in usage since the pandemic are significant challenges. He shares an example of successful video-first services at Moorfields Eye Hospital, where a 999 call can lead to a video consultation with an eye health specialist. Dr Livingstone's dream is to have a team of video-first ophthalmologists working across boards in Scotland to protect time for unscheduled care, especially in remote areas.Finally, Dr Livingstone addresses the use of AI in daily practice, emphasising the need for transparency, being the "biggest critic," and taking full responsibility. He quotes a colleague: "AI won't replace a doctor, but it will make you a more competitive doctor than your colleagues," arguing that not using it is a disadvantage. For those interested in AI, Dr Livingstone encourages them to start, noting the rise of "vibe coding" (describing what you want and letting AI create it) allows for rapid prototyping without a computing degree, making it a great time to be interested in digital tech in healthcare.

Why do ophthalmology conferences matter? David Lockington shares how UKISCRS and other meetings help young ophthalmologists grow, present, network and succeed.

Eye Views is proudly sponsored by Mainline Instruments, and was filmed on location at both UKEGS 2025 and UKISCRS 2025.

In the first episode from Season 2 of Eye Views, the ophthalmology podcast from Eye News, host Lorcan Butler, speaks with David who is a consultant ophthalmologist and president of UKISCRS. They talk about the importance of attending and engaging in ophthalmology conferences.

This episode highlights the value of networking for career growth in medicine. This is just the first episode in which you can stay informed with insights from leading experts in the field.
From first presentations to international podiums, David shares a candid and practical guide to navigating the ophthalmology conference landscape – including UKISCRS, RCOphth Congress, and major European and US ophthalmology conferences. He reflects on how conferences go far beyond keynote lectures, offering vital opportunities for career development, mentorship, collaboration, research presentation and lifelong learning.
The discussion explores how young ophthalmologists and trainees can make the most of conferences, including submitting abstracts, presenting free papers and posters, attending young ophthalmologist programmes, and engaging in dry labs and simulation training. David explains how these environments allow early-career ophthalmologists to develop presentation skills, refine clinical thinking and build relationships that can shape future fellowships and consultant careers.
David also addresses common barriers to conference attendance in ophthalmology, including cost, NHS study leave limitations, family commitments and imposter syndrome, offering realistic advice on how to invest wisely in yourself and your professional development. He highlights how conferences democratise access to mentors, foster corridor conversations that improve patient care, and create safe spaces for discussing complex cases.
A major theme is the pathway to the podium: how to move from clinical curiosity to publishable research and memorable presentations. David shares practical tips on abstract submission, storytelling in scientific talks, timekeeping and delivering high-impact presentations that stand out.
The episode also examines the role of social media in ophthalmology, how it complements conferences by widening audiences, and how clinicians can use platforms such as LinkedIn responsibly to build community rather than self-promotion. Industry partnerships, trade exhibitions and the importance of working with ophthalmic technology providers are also discussed, highlighting how innovation showcased at conferences directly benefits patient care.
Whether you are a trainee attending your first ophthalmology conference, a young ophthalmologist aiming to present, or a seasoned clinician looking to stay inspired, this episode offers insight, encouragement, and actionable advice on how conferences can keep the fire burning throughout a career in ophthalmology.
Season 2 of Eye Views is proudly sponsored by Mainline Instruments.
Visit their website here: https://www.main-line.co.uk/
To get in touch with their team, reach out to: sales@main-line.co.uk
Season 2 was filmed on location at the following conferences:
UKEGS 2025: https://glaucoma.uk/ukegs/
UKISCRS 2025: https://www.ukiscrs.org.uk/

Eye Views Series Two Trailer - The Highlights Coming Up with:

David Lockington

Dan Lindfield* (UKEGS)

Brendan Cummings

Masara Laginaf

Nishani Amerasinghe

Philip Bloom

Aisling Higham

Gok Ratnarajan

Iain Livingstone

Lucia Pelosini