Advanced Optometrist

An exciting opportunity has arisen for an Advanced Optometrist to join our friendly team at James Paget Hospital which consists of 5 Optometrists, 3 Orthoptists and 8 Consultants. The postprovides a valuable opportunity to develop core optometry skills as well as excellent clinical experience and teaching opportunities and is particularly suitable for Optometrists wishing to expand and consolidate their knowledge and clinical skills in Hospital Optometry extended roles. Main duties of the jobThe post holder will be required to deliver highly skilled and specialist clinical support to the Ophthalmology service. To undertake a range of advanced optometric clinical and specialist investigative, diagnostic and therapeutic procedures to assess, diagnose, treat and educate patients under the direct or indirect supervision of a consultant. The job role will develop around the specific skills and interests of the successful candidate. There are opportunities to work in Glaucoma, retinal, paediatric, corneal, low vision and research services. Hospital experience is desirable but not essential as full training will be given.About usThe department is an accredited placement site for Medical and Orthoptic students. We are also involved in the teaching of junior doctors, pre-registration Optometrists and student nurses. The Ophthalmology department is actively engaged in research and audit to improve outcomes for patients. We have regular teaching sessions and opportunities for CPD.Job descriptionJob responsibilitiesTo take responsibility for clinical decision-making with support from consultants and to provide specialised diagnosis, management, care and education of patients. In the retinal service provide support particularly the ARMD service and diabetic service. This will require the ability to carry out clinical examination and understand clinical signs, as well as interpretation of OCT scans to arrive at appropriate management decisions. In the Glaucoma service, working alongside glaucoma consultants to examine new and existing patients. This will involve using a range of clinical techniques and understanding how to interpret the results of specialist diagnostic tools such as OCT. Check visual acuities, IOPs, visual field testing, OCT imaging and perform other ancillary tests as required such as corneal pachymetry etc. Perform refractions as required including paediatric patients. Contribute to the delivery of optometric teaching and supervision to other ophthalmic professionals. Ensure contemporaneous records are kept for all patients seen in clinic. Work to set departmental protocols. May be required to comment on/implement policies or propose policy changes to own areas of work. Use appropriate IT, including electronic patient records, for clinical and audit purposes. Communicate effectively with other health professionals, patients and their carers. Responsibility, in conjunction with Ophthalmology colleagues, for the systematic and critical analysis of the quality of work carried out by optometrists in the shared care services if these are developed, including initiation and participation in clinical audit. Participate in continuing professional education and development (as required by the General Optical Council). Support and contribute to clinical research or assessment programmes. Contribute to publishing research/audit findings in peer-reviewed journals if required and present audit/research findings at relevant scientific meetings.Person SpecificationQualificationsEssential
Bsc (Hons) Optometry or equivalent
ExperienceEssential
working in a multidisciplinary team
SkillsEssential
ability to independently assess and make clinical decisions
Employer detailsEmployer nameJames Paget University Hospitals NHS Foundation TrustAddressJames Paget University Hospital Lowestoft Road Gorleston-On-Sea NR31 6LAAny attachments will be accessible after you click to apply. 177-ELEC-5999067-B
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