By Noko Mashilo
Optometrist Kelebogile Modutwane of Kelzmo Eyecare at Maponya Mall in Pimville, Soweto, emphasises that policies in optometry serve the best interests of the public and patients, given their role in healthcare.
She informed Vula Vala that optometrists are trained to address visual challenges. “The policies we follow are designed to guide the profession, protect patients, and ensure we serve to the best of our ability,” Modutwane stated.
She explained that obtaining a license and certification requires four years of university education to qualify as an optometrist. “Currently, there are only four optometry schools in South Africa: UJ, UFS, UKZN, and the University of the North. After earning a Bachelor of Optometry degree, one must register with the Health Professions Council of South Africa (HPCSA), which protects the public, regulates the profession, and provides guidelines on professional conduct. Within the HPCSA, there are different bodies, such as those for GPs, psychologists, and optometrists,” she noted.
Modutwane described the scope of optometrists as caring for the eye, including testing, diagnosing, and treating visual impairments or eye pathologies. “We correct visual impairments and can detect any pathology within the eye. We also provide therapeutic pharmaceuticals for certain eye conditions, such as dry eyes, which are common among people who use computers frequently,” she said.
She highlighted the collaboration between optometrists and other professionals, such as ophthalmologists, for conditions beyond their scope. “For example, if we diagnose a cataract, we refer the patient to an eye specialist. We prescribe corrective spectacles to improve vision rather than performing surgery,” Modutwane explained.
Regarding billing, Kelebogile mentioned that there is no prescribed pricing. “We charge differently based on our target market, although the South African Optometric Association provides guidelines, particularly for patients paying cash. Medical aid schemes, however, have different charges,” she stated.
Modutwane also pointed out that optometrists can pursue further academic qualifications, including honours, master’s degrees, or specialisation in fields such as paediatric optometry or contact lenses.
She also emphasised the importance of privacy policies. “By law, we must respect and keep patient information private, except during referrals to specialists. We must honour each individual’s values and treat them with fairness, respect, kindness, and empathy. Listening to patients’ concerns and communicating clearly to ensure they understand their conditions and treatments is crucial,” she said.
Modutwane recently hosted the Ukubona Foundation’s 4th Annual Charity Fundraising Golf Day at the prestigious Randpark Fairthorn Champions Golf Course in Randburg, north of Johannesburg. The event was graced by well-known personalities such as Marks Maponyane, Dingane Mokebe, Wilson B. Nkosi, and Mosibudi Whitehead, who also took on the role of MC.
Reflecting on the day, Modutwane, who also serves as the foundation’s executive chairperson, described the annual golf fundraiser as the lifeblood of their mission. “It’s not just about a single day; it is about making a lasting difference in the lives of children who face challenges we are determined to overcome,” she said.
She also emphasised that the foundation’s deepest purpose is to restore hope, dignity, and joy to children by making their education journey brighter and more meaningful. “We want every child to see clearly, to learn with confidence, and to dream without limits,” she added.
For those who wish to walk this journey of hope with them, visit www.ukubonafoundation.org or email info@ukubonafoundation.org. Together, we can give children not only the gift of sight, but the courage to envision a future full of possibility.
