My role is perfect for someone who is interested in solving problems, enjoys communicating with people and is enthusiastic to keep on learning.
Ivy Tang
My first role as an optometrist was working for NHS England as a pre-registration optometrist. Pre-registration was a year that followed the completion of my optometry degree at Cardiff University.
It was a year of training, hands on experience and applying things that I have learnt in my degree to practice. Having loved this pre-registration year, I decided hospital optometry was something I would like to continue to do and I joined NHS Wales after moving back to Wales.
Since then, there has been a great deal of learning opportunities that has allowed me to upskill in areas that I am particularly interested in. I have completed several postgraduate qualifications which has expanded my scope of practice.
My current role as a specialist optometrist involves providing comprehensive eye examinations for people that have been referred into the hospital eye service. As well as other optometrists, I work closely with a broad spectrum of other professionals, in particular, with ophthalmologists and orthoptists.
A typical working day involves a variety of fascinating clinical activities. This can include examining, diagnosing and managing different eye conditions, fitting contact lenses, measuring for glasses prescriptions, interpreting imaging studies and arranging onward referral if needed.
The patients I see range from a few months old to 90+ years old. Besides working with people, I use a variety of modern technologies and equipment, including special lenses and machines to visualise the front and the back of patients eyes.
Working as a hospital optometrist, I am presented with challenges which are very rewarding to overcome. I am continuously growing professionally and personally.
The thing I enjoy the most about my job is being able to improve a person’s quality of life by helping them with their vision problems. Sometimes, I am also detecting possible problems with a person’s general health, as there are many systemic conditions that are associated with the eyes.
I also really enjoy working collaboratively with other professionals, sharing our ideas and thoughts to make sure patients get the best care.
My role is perfect for someone who is interested in solving problems, enjoys communicating with people and is enthusiastic to keep on learning.