Association of Optometrists

The Association of Optometrists (AOP) is the leading representative membership organisation for optometrists in the United Kingdom.

It supports over 82% of practising optometrists (members) to fulfil their professional roles to protect the nation’s eye health.

Activities and services
The Association provides a range of professional services and products to its members, including:


 * Indemnity insurance
 * Legal representation and advice
 * Continuing education and training (CET)
 * Annual conferences, events and webinars
 * News, online and print, under the brand title Optometry Today
 * Political lobbying

History
The organisation traces its history back to 1946. when the Institute of Ophthalmic Opticians (formed in 1904) and the Joint Council of Qualified Opticians (founded in 1923), were incorporated into The Association of Optical Practitioners.

In 1986, the organisation renamed to the Association of Optometrists. The organisation retains use of the 'AOP' acronym.

In 2017 the organisation reported it had grown to "17,000+ members", "representing 80% of UK optometrists".

Publishing
The organisation publishes a professional journal, Optometry Today.