If you have questions and scenarios for the panel please submit them before the conference here (please copy and paste the link into your browser): https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/2DCQHB3
ABOUT THE PANELLISTS
Steve Stenersen: Originally from Auckland, Steve has been working in the industry since 1978, beginning his journey in an optical lab grinding lenses and making glasses. This foundation has allowed Steve to think out of the box for complex cases and repairs. More than once he has been referred to as MacGyver! Over the years, Steve has been nominated for many awards including IOA Optician of the Year finalist, ADONZ Directors Award and Life Member. In his spare time, Steve enjoys spending time with his family, fishing, and camping.
Roger Sercombe: Roger started work in what was then his parents’ business in 1987 and qualified as a Dispensing Optician in 1991. A couple of years working in London in the early nineties widened his experience and he returned to the family business in 1994. These days, Roger’s particular area of expertise is progressive (multifocal) glasses – many previously dissatisfied wearers have benefited from his advice and problem solving skills 2016 saw Roger become a multifocal spectacle wearer so now he can empathise as well as advise. Outside work, his interests include mountain biking and movies.
Glenn Bolton: Glenn is the Director of Independent Lens Specialists in Christchurch; a wholesaler supplying high-quality, NZ-made lenses nationwide. Glenn and John Clemence founded ILS, and merged with Shamir in 2019. “We have merged with an innovative lens manufacturer dedicated to providing the best lens solutions for its customers and for independent optometrists. Our values align nicely, focusing on quality and service, and we look forward to continue to support independent optometry with Shamir New Zealand.
Stuart Whelan: Stuart is Sales Manager at Hoya NZ. He is an experienced qualified Dispensing Optician in New Zealand’s optical industry. With many years of experience working alongside independent optometrists and industry partners, he has developed a reputation for delivering practical solutions and consistently achieving outstanding results. Away from work, Stuart is a passionate sports fan with a particular love of rugby league and golf, enjoys researching investments and technology, and values spending time with his family. He approaches both his professional and personal life with curiosity, loyalty, and a commitment to continuous improvement.
Saturday 12 September 2:00pm
TROUBLESHOOTING PANEL – 1 GenDO
This interactive panel session brings together experienced dispensing opticians to explore common and complex challenges encountered in everyday practice. Using realistic case scenarios and audience-submitted questions, the panel will discuss practical approaches to problem-solving across a range of clinical, technical, communication, and customer service situations
Learning outcomes
1 Learning who in the industry you can ask when you have a difficult patient scenario that required extra help eg labs, fellow Dispensing Opticians
2 Tips and tricks for handling difficult prescriptions and how to work through to a successful outcome
3 Identify practical strategies for assessing and resolving common dispensing, lens, frame fitting, and patient communication challenges encountered in everyday practice
Industry experts