Gaurav Paramasivan

Gaurav Paramasivan

PhD Candidate
Postgraduate Research Student
Medicine & Health School of Optometry and Vision Science

Biography

Gaurav is a committed PhD student at the University of New South Wales, Sydney, where he is leading innovative research into the public health implications of bioptic driving for young adults. His work delves into the safety, value, and policy aspects of bioptics, aiming to significantly improve mobility and independence for individuals with visual impairments.

He has been honored with a prestigious Fellowship from the American Academy of Optometry (FAAO) in 2023, a testament to his contributions to the field. Gaurav holds a master’s in optometry (M.Optom) from the Elite School of Optometry, SASTRA Deemed University, India, and a Baccalaureate of Science (B.S.) in Optometry from the Elite School of Optometry, Birla Institute of Technology and Science-Pilani, India. His work is driven by a commitment to advancing eye care and improving quality of life for those with visual challenges.

Research Title

Public health impact of driving participation for young adults who use bioptics for driving: safety, value and policy

Supervisor

Dr. Lisa Keay

Co-supervisors

Dr. Sharon Oberstein, Dr. Sheela Evangeline

Research Abstract

The integration of bioptic telescopes into driving practices for young adults with visual impairments has emerged as a critical issue in public health. Bioptics, specialized optical devices that enable individuals with significant vision loss to drive, offer a unique opportunity for enhanced independence and participation in society. However, this innovation also raises important questions about safety, the value of driving for individuals with low vision, and the need for supportive policies.

This research aims to evaluate the public health impact of driving participation among young adults who use bioptics. We will assess the safety outcomes, including accident rates and driving performance, compared to those with standard vision. Additionally, we will explore the broader social and psychological value that driving offers to this population, such as increased access to employment, education, and social activities.

Ultimately, this project has the potential to shape future public health strategies, enabling young adults with visual impairments to lead more fulfilling lives, while also addressing critical safety concerns. By advancing our understanding of bioptic driving, this research will play a crucial role in promoting safer, more equitable access to driving for individuals with visual impairments.

Email

g.paramasivan@unsw.edu.au

Paramasivan G, Srinivasan R, Sharma A, Surya J, Sharma T, Raman R. Prevalence, risk factors and association with glycemic levels of presbyopia in South Indian population. Indian J Ophthalmol. 2021 Nov;69(11):3173-3177. doi: 10.4103/ijo.IJO_1407_21. PMID: 34708766; PMCID: PMC8725149.

Gopalakrishnan S, Paramasivan G, Sathyaprasath M, Raman R. Preference of low vision devices in patients with central field loss and peripheral field loss. Saudi J Ophthalmol. 2022 Jun 13;35(4):286-292. doi: 10.4103/sjopt.sjopt_164_21. PMID: 35814995; PMCID: PMC9266478.

  • Best Oral presentation award National level at FORCE INDIA 2018 on 27th March 2018 on “A retrospective review of subjects prescribed with Comfilcon - A spherical Soft Contact Lenses at a tertiary eye care hospital” Selected and presented as one of the best posters on 11th Narasimhan Memorial Session on Best Research Award in Optometry

  • Poster Presentation on "Management of Macular Edema with Branch Retinal Vein Occlusion in a Case of Secondary Polycythemia at Dr.E. Vaithilingam scientific memorial session 2017 Poster presentation on International Optometry Conference in 2021, “Visual Rehabilitation of glaucoma patients with Low Vision Devices” Oral presentation on Cost analysis of Low Vision Care Rehabilitation Services from a tertiary eye care hospital in India at Dr.E. Vaithilingam scientific memorial session 2023 Poster presentation on Cost and Requirements for setting up a Low Vision care Clinic- A semi-structured survey study at Dr.E. Vaithilingam scientific memorial session 2023 Poster presentation on Barriers and enablers to include low vision care in independent optometric practice: A qualitative study at Dr.E. Vaithilingam's scientific memorial session 2023 Oral presentation on 4th International Optometry Conference on Eye Health in 2023, Are the Costs of Low Vision services High? - Results from India Poster presentation on 4th International Optometry Conference on Eye Health in 2023, “Barriers and enablers to Implement low vision care in independent optometric practice”

  • 2021-present: Member of Optometry Council of India 2022-present: American Academy of Optometry (AAO) 2023-present: Member of Optometry Expert working group, TN RIGHTS, Welfare of Differently Abled, India

  • PhD at the University of New South Wales, Sydney Fellowship from American Academy of Optometry 2023 (FAAO) Masters in Optometry(M.Optom) - 2023 Elite school of optometry, SASTRA Deemed University, India Baccalaureate of Science (B.S.) Optometry 2013, Elite school of optometry, Birla Institute of Technology and Science-Pilani, India