A peek inside... Fulgoni Opticians

Ferrand works at Fulgoni Opticians in Abergavenny, which he describes as “wacky,” in a way that helps to put patients at ease.

OT asked Ferrand to reflect on his time in the practice, his role, and his favourite moments of the day.

What is your role?

I am an optometrist at Fulgoni Opticians in Abergavenny.

What do you recall from your first week in practice?

My first week was eventful, despite only being in for three days. We were closed for the bank holiday on the Monday. On Tuesday evening, we went out for a meal with the local ophthalmologists. Wednesday, we had an open day where patients were invited to what I can only describe as a frame party – food and drink were provided, and an expanded frame selection was available for sampling. Friday, my wife was in for a test, though my colleague was able to help me out there.

How do you see your role in the patient’s journey?

I view my role as providing a professional service whilst also being personable and developing a patient-practitioner relationship.

We like to have a bit of fun whilst maintaining professionalism, which helps patients feel more at ease – especially those who struggle in clinical environments

What is one thing you love most about the practice?

The practice is a bit wacky. We like to have a bit of fun whilst maintaining professionalism, which helps patients feel more at ease – especially those who struggle in clinical environments. We have a selection of sweets in the counter (like an old-fashioned sweet shop) that are available for patients. The music is also tailored to patients – if we have a particular patient who we know would feel settled by a particular era of music, we put it on.

What is your favourite moment of the day?

My favourite moment every day is lunch. Those who know me are aware of my relationship with food.

What is one lesson you have learnt from someone in your team?

I have learnt the importance of Italian etiquette when working for an Italian family. I may have committed a couple of faux pas in the first week.

If you could have one wish for the practice, what would it be?

I would like to have a shower installed. That way, I could fit in a cheeky bike ride before work.

Joel Ferrand

Joel enjoys cycling to work

If you could help your community understand one thing about eye care, what would you say?

Not all conditions are visible. I quite often say to patients that, other than cataracts, we’re not great at fixing eyes. However, we are good at preventing them from worsening if we catch things early. Key examples of this would be glaucoma and wet macular degeneration.

How is wellbeing prioritised for the team?

The practice allows an hour for lunch so we can catch up on shopping, pop out for a coffee, etc.

What is one thing you are excited about?

I started my medical retina qualification in September. Although, if I’m completely honest, I would have to say I’m excited about my next holiday or bike ride.

How would your practice team describe you?

My unofficial title would be Switzerland – thanks to Ellie, our practice manager. Google helpfully summarises this as being precise, rule-abiding, and remaining impartial.