Preparing for a day in practice

With each practice a locum optometrist steps in operating in a slightly unique way, there can be several different factors to adapt to. Whether it is the way appointments are diarised, the patient journey through the practice, or the equipment used – having prior awareness of the set-up can help to avoid any unexpected turbulence on the day.

Optometrist, Pete Sharma, who has been locuming for around nine years, explained that he likes to know the type of equipment a practice has, such as optical coherence tomography, trial frames, or a phoropter. Knowing the approach for the clinic diary, and whether it is a rolling clinic, is also helpful.

“Having these before lets me prepare in advance for the day so that it can go more smoothly. I am also able to research tutorial videos online for certain equipment so that I am prepared on the day,” he said.

Optometrist, Sam Phillips, who has been locuming part-time for five years, shared: “It is useful to know whether your staff includes dispensing opticians, as well as the test times and lunch times, equipment in practice and any quirks involved in their use.”

Passwords for all the required systems are a must, Phillips added, as well as “any extended role services offered to ensure correct accreditations.”

It is useful to know whether your staff includes dispensing opticians, as well as the test times and lunch times, equipment in practice and any quirks involved in their use

Gathering this information can involve a mixture of calls and emails for admin-related information, such as passwords.

“A practice visit is definitely recommended closer to the date, to meet people, learn roles and the layout of the practice, and possibly to use the equipment or review the referral pathways to ensure you’re comfortable,” Phillips shared.

Sharma also visits independent practices ahead of time in order to meet the teams.

“This makes it more comfortable on the day as then they already know me,” he explained.

Apps for locum optometrists are also improving, Sharma noted, with many providing information on the equipment a practice has and the expectations involved.

I’ve found it very positive as they get to meet me in advance and show me around in a more relaxed manner

This advanced preparation has been met positively by practices, both optometrists have found.

Sharma explained: “I’ve found it very positive as they get to meet me in advance and show me around in a more relaxed manner. It also shows that the optometrist is more dedicated, and sometimes works in my favour.”

Phillips has also seen a positive reception and noted: “If a practice is well run, they will be able to organise and gather the information relatively quickly if they don’t already have it prepared.”

“A good practice that values their patients will appreciate any efforts you make to ensure you provide a good level of care,” he said, adding: “Making adequate preparations to learn about its set up proves, at the earliest stage, your professionalism and gives the appearance of an optometrist who wants to provide a high standard of service.”