“No two days are ever the same”

When and why did you decide to become a domiciliary optometrist?

Once I had qualified as an optometrist, I took the traditional route of working in practice for a few years. I began to feel a sense of monotony with my days and felt my skill set could be better utilised. I wanted to help those who were unable to access a High Street practice. I decided to leave practice and become a domiciliary provider. I have not looked back since. I thoroughly enjoy travelling and meeting so many different patients, with flexibility to my day.

What do you enjoy most about domiciliary optometry and why?

No two days are ever the same. I meet incredible patients who are always happy and grateful to have accessed my service. It is highly rewarding knowing that you are able to make a sincere difference to the daily life of your patient, from watching snooker on the television to completing wordsearches.

 What would you change about domiciliary optometry and why?

I would change the requirements for pre-visit notifications. I feel these notifications reduce patient access and increase health inequalities.

What is the common misconception you hear about domiciliary optometry and what would you say to demystify it?

That the eye examination cannot be carried out to the same standard you receive in practice. Within my tools I have a portable digital retinal camera, portable slit lamp, portable tonometer and fields screener. This equipment enables me to carry out eye examinations to the same standard you would expect in a High Street practice.

I meet incredible patients who are always happy and grateful to have accessed my service

What is your most memorable moment as a domiciliary optometrist?

Approximately 10 years ago I saw a gentleman who I’ll name ‘CP.’ CP had learning disabilities. He had never experienced an eye examination and was fairly anxious about the visit. His support worker reported that CP rarely showed any interest towards the television or colouring pictures. Following his examination, I found a considerable spectacle prescription. I remember CP was reluctant to try on any sample frames. Once glazed, I returned to deliver and fit his new spectacles. I vividly remember his eyes light up. It was a magical moment. I have since returned and carried out several routine appointments. It’s now very difficult to get CP to remove his spectacles. He now enjoys television and colouring activities. I always look forward to visiting him.

What has been your most challenging moment as a domiciliary optometrist and why?

The COVID-19 lockdown was an incredibly challenging time. The uncertainty of not knowing when restrictions would be lifted was very concerning. During the period, we had many patients calling us wanting to be seen. Given that all our patients are clinically vulnerable, I advised we postponed visits until we received clear guidance. I felt a duty of care to ensure I was keeping everyone safe. We continued offering emergency eyecare by means of PEARS visits and telephone triage.

Empathy and communication is key in building good relationships with your patients and their relatives

What is the one piece of advice you would give those to considering domiciliary optometry?

Expect the unexpected. The environments you find yourself testing in will vary tremendously and you need be able to adapt accordingly to achieve the best outcome for your patient. Empathy and communication is key in building good relationships with your patients and their relatives.

What is the one piece of kit you could not live without and why?

A portable slit lamp as it allows a more thorough ocular examination. I have been able to detect several retinal detachments and many cases of uveitis, thereby avoiding loss of sight.