Professional development as a locum optometrist

However, locum optometrists may not receive the same level of structured support and in-house resources that are often available to resident optometrists.

OT approached locum optometrists to find out how they approach keeping their clinical and professional skills up-to-date.

Vital for patient care

Locum optometrist, Roma Malik, shared that CPD is not only vital for meeting GOC requirements, but for ensuring safe and effective patient care.

“As a locum, I often work independently, so staying clinically confident and ensuring my knowledge and skills are up to date is essential,” she said.

She added that resident optometrists often benefit from structured in-house training, peer discussions, and employer-supported CPD events.

“As locums, we typically don’t have direct access to these resources, so we rely more heavily on self-directed learning, online platforms, independent CPD events and professional memberships to stay current,” Malik observed.

Malik makes CPD part of her regular routine by attending online webinars, joining CPD events and taking part in peer review sessions.

“I also really value the chance to learn from the variety of practice settings I work in – it’s one of the perks of being a locum,” she said.

Skills guides

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A tailored approach to CPD

Locum optometrist, Frank Eperjesi, shared with OT that he plans his professional development around the learning outcomes he set in his GOC personal development plan.

He highlighted that often the topics he focuses on for CPD will stem from conversations with other optometrists, questions asked by patients and the latest developments in research.

“I identify gaps in my knowledge and skills and then look out for and complete CPD that will help me fill these gaps,” Eperjesi shared.

Eperjesi regularly uses AOP CPD and attends 100% Optical every two years.

“I'm naturally curious so I like finding out new things. I want to be able to conduct the best eye exam I can, manage complex cases and answer questions from patients or carers. It's only fair on the patient to be up-to-date,” he emphasised.

CPD at your fingertips

Active CPD exams

Study and gain CPD points through OT’s online CPD exams, and access archived CPD and CET articles, Practice team resources and Skills guides in our Education library