Case studies: Optometrist: Daniel

Daniel has a BSc (Hons) Optometry and is managing director of Clamp Optometrists Ltd. He is also a member of the College of Optometrists.

Science was my passion at school and I knew I wanted to work with people and in a career that had an element of social worth. The ability to own and run a business, while at the same time being a medical practitioner, was a big draw when choosing optometry.

I undertook lots of work experience during the holidays prior to and during my studies - I knew the first job I took once qualified would sit on my CV for evermore, so it should be carefully considered.

My optometry degree was vital in obtaining my current job as it is compulsory to have a degree in optometry to practise as an optometrist in the UK.

Optometrists can work in hospitals, independent practices (which are owned by the practitioner), for larger companies/franchises or in academia. Each area is slightly different and has advantages and disadvantages. I researched carefully which sector I wanted to work in as, once you are established, it is increasingly difficult to swap without starting again.

I only applied for jobs with companies who shared my values and ethos. It was a good investment of my time, as I am now the managing director of the same company that I joined upon qualification.

My day is very structured and starts at around 8.00am, normally completing administration tasks around running the business. I may also lead a team meeting, have a breakfast meeting with a supplier or discuss care pathways at the local hospital.

From 9.00am onwards, I see patients every 30-45 minutes throughout the day. One day a week we have a teaching clinic and run clinics for glaucoma triage and diabetic retinopathy screening, in addition to eye examinations. After work I may have more meetings or finish administration tasks.

I spend some evenings and weekends at conferences and events furthering my clinical and professional knowledge. Some newly qualified entrants are surprised at the amount of your own time that you need to contribute in order to excel in your profession.

I have been able to develop my role to suit my personal interests. For example, I have developed my medical skills by participating in training to run community eye care clinics. I have developed the business side of my work by attending trade fairs throughout Europe, meeting our suppliers and, increasingly, getting involved in purchasing fashion spectacles to ensure we always have next season’s spectacles and sunglasses before our competitors.

What I most like about my job is working in a caring profession that the public still values. It is great to meet interesting people and to build a long-term rapport with our patients and their families. I also enjoy the variety of work, combining both medical and business skills.

Being witness to preventable visual impairment can be a challenging aspect of the role. Working on weekends and, increasingly, evenings can also be a challenge. Optometry is seldom a Monday to Friday job.

My advice to others is to get relevant work experience, for example in an eye department, or part-time work in the industry. Speak with as many optometrists as possible prior to applying to university to get a feel for the profession.