Decoding domiciliary

“It’s more of an informal conversation with patients when you see them at home”

Noor Hussein, domiciliary optometrist at Specsavers Home Visits in Derby, on the value he gets from providing care to patients at home

3 min read

A healthcare professional leans in to examine an elderly man’s eye using a handheld ophthalmoscope as the man sits in an armchair at home, with soft daylight and living room furnishings in the background

Specsavers

Lucy Miller

30 March 2026

Domiciliary optometrist at Specsavers Home Visits in Derby, Noor Hussein, tells OT about why he chose his mode of practice – and the satisfaction he finds in the role.

When and why did you decide to become a domiciliary optometrist?

I did my pre-registration placement and another year in a Specsavers practice – so, two years in a clinic room. I was looking to move area, and so about six months ago I did a couple of shadow days with the Home Visits team that covers Nottingham and Derby. I knew that I was early in my optometry career and that now was a good time to try out new things to see what I enjoy the most – I was looking for something a bit different.

What do you enjoy most about domiciliary optometry and why?

The variety of a different environment every day keeps it interesting, of course, but it’s also more of an informal conversation with patients when you see them at home. They are just so thankful that you have come out to see them. It feels good giving them access to something they otherwise wouldn’t have. I think everyone deserves the same service and care, whatever their situation.

Everyone deserves the same service and care, whatever their situation

What would you change about domiciliary optometry and why?

I’d like to see more advancement in the development of smaller, portable technology. Optical coherence tomography in the test room was a game changer – it would be great to have a pocket-sized one to take out with me. And of course, the pre-visit notification process takes time and limits who you can see, so I’d change that.

A healthcare professional leans over to examine an elderly man seated in an armchair in a living room, holding a handheld diagnostic device close to the patient’s eye. The room has patterned wallpaper, a wooden cabinet, and soft furnishings, creating a warm, homely setting

Specsavers

What is the most common misconception you hear about domiciliary optometry and what would you say to demystify it?

I think people assume that communication with people who aren’t able to get outside easily would be more challenging, but I haven’t found that. Despite some physical or cognitive limitations, you are still able to have really good conversations – in fact, more in-depth than you tend to have in practice. You can really get a feel for the patient’s needs and a better understanding of how to help them.

What is your most memorable moment as a domiciliary optometrist?

There are so many special moments. After one home visit to a lovely couple, they said I should call in for tea and biscuits every time I’m passing by their door – and they really meant it.

What has been your most challenging moment as a domiciliary optometrist and why?

More frustrating than challenging, but recently there was a lady who had acute angle closure glaucoma, and I needed to refer her to eye casualty. I was phoning them on and off all afternoon between driving and doing other test appointments, it took about three hours to get through.

You are still able to have really good conversations – in fact, more in-depth than you tend to have in practice

What is the one piece of advice you would give to those considering domiciliary optometry?

Definitely do a couple of shadow days to see what it’s really like – you’ve nothing to lose by trying out domiciliary, and you might find it’s a good place for you to be. With Specsavers, there’s also the chance to go into partnership and run your own domiciliary business as a way to progress.