03 October 2025
Domiciliary optometrist at the OutsideClinic in Bristol, Kate O’Brien, tells OT about the balance with family life that her role brings, the satisfaction she gets from revisiting patients at home, and why portable optical coherence tomography (OCT) is on her future domiciliary wishlist.
When and why did you decide to become a domiciliary optometrist?
As a relatively newly qualified optometrist, I regularly worked alongside a fellow optometrist who worked at Outside Clinic. It was the first time I had ever heard of domiciliary care, and I loved the idea of community-based work.
What do you enjoy most about domiciliary optometry and why?
The patients. I love spending time talking to individuals who might not get to talk to anyone else all week. I love hearing people’s stories, and making sure that they feel cared for.
Another thing I love about domiciliary work is the flexibility. I am able to have a much more balanced work/home relationship, and I’m able to be far more present in my children’s lives than when I was working in practice.
“I’m able to be far more present in my children’s lives than when I was working in practice”
What would you change about domiciliary optometry and why?
It would be wonderful to have a portable OCT device.
What is the most common misconception you hear about domiciliary optometry and what do you say to demystify it?
Lots of people think it’s a more harrowing concept than it really is. A lot of our patients are just like those individuals we see in practice, just less mobile. I enjoy talking to other optometrists about domiciliary care, even if it’s just so they know the services are here so they can refer patients to us.
What is your most memorable moment as a domiciliary optometrist?
There are too many memorable moments to count. I love going back to see the same patients year after year, and being welcomed like family.
What has been your most challenging moment as a domiciliary optometrist and why?
I saw a gentleman who had been wearing the same contact lenses for a very, very long time, with extremely poor hygiene. He had severe corneal infections. I had to arrange hospital transport and try and emphasise the significance of the situation to him.
What is the one piece of advice you would give to those considering domiciliary optometry?
Just try it. Do a shadow day – you might well fall in love.
What is the piece of kit you could not live without and why?
My trusty ophthalmoscope.
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