SpaMedica launches pre-reg training programme for optometrists

SpaMedica has partnered with Vision Express to offer 150 pre-registration optometrist training placements across its nationwide network of hospitals.

Trainees will shadow SpaMedica’s clinical teams and in-house optometrists as they treat patients with eye conditions including cataracts and wet age-related macular degeneration (AMD).

SpaMedica has worked in collaboration with the College of Optometrists to provide accredited hospital eye service placements for trainee optometrists who are currently gaining High Street experience in Vision Express practices.

Trainees will participate in cataract pre- and post-operative clinics, as well as medical retina services.

Placements will last for two and a half days, and trainees will also have the opportunity to attend virtual clinics with patients.

Tom Critchley, principal optometrist at SpaMedica, said: “We know hospital placements for pre-reg optometrists can be difficult to secure due to limited availability, so we’re delighted to be working with Vision Express and The College of Optometrists to facilitate wider access to professional development and training opportunities.”

Pre-reg trainees will gain practical skills, underpinned by theoretical modules, Critchley said.

Dan McGhee, director professional services for EssilorLuxottica Optical Retail UK and Ireland, Vision Express UK and Ireland, commented that the partnership would “ensure pre-reg optometrists are able to access high-quality training and supervision in both community and hospital settings, meeting many of the competencies outlined in the Scheme for Registration.”

The first pre-registration optometrist from Vision Express, Rafeh Rehman, began his hospital placement at SpaMedica Manchester on 4 February. Rehman was greeted by Critchley, Alex Vann, the national lead optometrist for cataract at SpaMedica, and the clinical team.

Rehman shared: “It was lovely to receive such a warm welcome and I’m looking forward to gaining valuable experience and expanding my skill set.”

“It will be really interesting to get an insight into hospital optometry and I’m grateful to both Vision Express and SpaMedica for helping me on my journey to becoming a registered optometrist, ensuring I’m able to deliver the highest standard of care to my patients,” he added.

SpaMedica plans to welcome more pre-reg optometrists in the future. The provider also runs a training programme for ophthalmic surgeons.

Pictured: Victoria Parkinson, medical events manager, SpaMedica; Alex Vann, national lead optometrist (cataract), SpaMedica; Tom Critchley, principal optometrist, SpaMedica; Rafeh Rehman, pre-reg optometrist, Dan McGhee, director professional services for EssilorLuxottica Optical Retail UK and Ireland / Vision Express UK and Ireland, Laura Dimelow, vision care expert, EssilorLuxottica Optical Retail UK and Ireland / Vision Express UK and Ireland.