Optical Express, Europe’s leading private provider of laser eye surgery, premium intraocular lens surgery and cataract surgery, have extended their Optometry Shadow Programme which was launched on an interim basis earlier this year. The Programme offers all qualified GOC registered optometrists the opportunity to shadow an experienced optometrist involved in the refractive surgery pathway and gain experience of working with refractive and cataract surgery patients.
The Programme aims to provide optometrists a unique and invaluable insight into refractive surgery procedures and provides the opportunity to observe a fellow professional at work.
The Optometry Shadow Programme, has proved a major success with optometrists during its trial period. The Programme has now been extended so that more optometrists will be able to spend time in theatre observing surgical procedures and witness pre and post-operative consultations. Participants have the opportunity to follow world-class ophthalmic surgeons and multi-disciplinary teams whilst also working with advanced diagnostic technology.
Alexandra, who took part in the programme commented: “I was lucky enough to view the whole journey; from observing initial consultations, seeing measurements taken with equipment I wasn't familiar with, watching the surgery itself and then being able to see the successful results in the post-op checks”.
“I feel partaking in this is definitely something which would be useful to many community optometrists”.
Reaction to the Shadow Programme has been very positive, with all participants rating their experience as excellent and reporting that following the shadow experience, their knowledge of refractive surgery increased dramatically. They also noted that they would recommend refractive surgery to their patients going forward. Many participants found the programme extremely beneficial, with every person saying they would also recommend the programme to other optometrists.
Faizah, one of the Optical Express Optometrists who Shadow Programme participants will follow on the day of their placement, commented: “Optical Express offers an insight into the profession that I’ve personally never seen before. Observing optometrists I have spoken to were surprised by the advanced technology used at Optical Express.”
Stephen Hannan, Clinical Services Director at Optical Express said: “The Shadow Programme is a great opportunity for optometrists to develop their skills and abilities. Participants in the Programme have the chance to see our optometrists undertaking pre and post-operative consultations and to learn from our world-class ophthalmic surgeons.
“Optometrists who take part in the Shadow Programme can observe as, day in and day out, our expert clinicians transform the lives of our patients through surgical vision correction and premium cataract surgery. The extension of our Shadow Programme ensures that more optometrists can be guaranteed a truly eye-opening experience.”
This unique initiative takes place at Optical Express’ state of the art surgery centres across the UK, making them accessible to optometrists up and down the country. Participants in the programme will be paid £150 per full day for taking part, and they will also earn two Continuing Professional Development (CPD) points as part of the initiative.
If you are interested in participating in the programme, or would like to find out more, click here and register your details. An Optical Express representative will be in contact with you.
Hear from Dhruti, a participant of the Optometry Shadowing Programme