Gillian Bruce

Qualifications: BSc.(Hons) MCOptom | MCOptom DipTP(IP) |MSc Primary Care Ophthalmology

Gillian Bruce is one of the most highly qualified and experienced specialist optometrists in Scotland. With more than 25 years in clinical practice, she provides advanced eye care for patients across Edinburgh, the Lothians, and wider Scotland. Her expertise includes complex contact lens fitting, myopia management for children, dry eye diagnosis and treatment, glaucoma care, and the management of acute eye conditions. Gillian joined Cameron Optometry in 2011 and is now the clinic’s Clinical Development Lead, guiding the growth of one of Scotland’s most advanced optometry services.

As an optometrist with extensive postgraduate training, Gillian holds the Diploma in Independent Prescribing and a Masters in Primary Care Ophthalmology from the University of Edinburgh. She graduated top of her cohort and was awarded the David Brewster Medal. Her professional development also includes certificates in Myopia Management, Dry Eye Management, and advanced diagnostic skills that support technology enhanced eye examinations. She is a long standing member of the College of Optometrists and the British Contact Lens Association.

Gillian is recognised nationally as an expert in myopia management. She was among the first optometrists in the UK to provide evidence-based treatments that slow childhood myopia progression and she now leads the Myopia Management Clinic at Cameron Optometry. Her contributions to the field include co-authoring the 2024 UK and Ireland modified Delphi consensus on myopia management and completing specialist training at Glasgow Caledonian University. She regularly speaks at national events and advises parents and carers seeking the best myopia management options in Scotland.

Dry eye disease is another of Gillian’s specialist areas. She established Edinburgh’s first dedicated Tear Clinic for the diagnosis and treatment of dry eye and ocular surface disease. Using state of the art imaging and targeted therapies, she supports patients with chronic dry eye and complex ocular surface conditions. Her expertise in this area led to her being shortlisted for the BCLA Dry Eye Practitioner of the Year, as well as contributing to the Scottish Dry Eye Guidelines which are used by medical professionals providing eye care services in Scotland.

Gillian also has significant experience in complex contact lens fitting. She works closely with the Lothian Hospital Eye Service to manage challenging clinical cases, including medical contact lenses for keratoconus and other corneal conditions. Her skills cover both comprehensive everyday contact lens care and specialist fittings for patients who have previously struggled to achieve comfort or good vision with lenses.

Glaucoma is another interest of Gillian’s and she contributed to the Scottish SIGN guideline on glaucoma referral and safe discharge. She is also the published author of research on glaucoma management in primary care and the clinical barriers for optometrists in Scotland.

Her clinical background includes emergency eye care, routine and specialist paediatric eye care, and two peer reviewed publications. Earlier in her career she volunteered with Vision Aid Overseas in Africa and served as an optometrist at both the London Olympic Games and the Glasgow Commonwealth Games.

Outside the consulting room, Gillian is a committed tennis player who enjoys both playing and attending live events. At home she spends most of her time with her young children, Matthew and Eva.

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