Description
An exciting vacancy has become available for a part-time maternity cover as Senior Optometrist which involves working within the core low vision and paediatric service as well as extended role Ophthalmology clinics including Medical Retina Injection clinics at Whipps Cross.
The post-holder will work every Tuesday and Alternate Thursdays as part of the multi-disciplinary Optometry and Ophthalmology teams that provide comprehensive and quality ophthalmology services for the Trust.
You will be based in the Eye Treatment Centre at Whipps Cross University Hospital but there may be occasions where the clinic will be held at Newham General Hospital. The Eye Treatment Centre is a dedicated unit covering all ophthalmology specialties including vitreo-retinal, medical retina, glaucoma, cornea, oculo-plastics, paediatrics, neuro-ophthalmology and we also have a busy eye emergency service.
We are open to considering applications from Optometrists who would be interested in doing this post as a job share. Working hours and days to be agreed with the successful candidate.
Main duties of the job
You will participate in the educational activities run by and for the Optical Services and Ophthalmology Departments. This includes the teaching of other health care professionals, medical undergraduates and junior doctors.
There are significant opportunities to develop within the role gaining experience in extended roles and a being involved in audit and research.
We are a friendly, close-knit multidisciplinary team consisting of full-time and part-time 12 Orthoptists,18 Optometrists, 1 Contact Lens Practitioner, 11 Consultants across paediatrics and adult services, a nursing team including HCA's, an ECLO, photography and administrative teams.
We will support you in both your clinical and leadership roles to develop your skills and knowledge. We are in a position to fund courses both in leadership and in clinical areas such as attaining Independent Prescribing and other areas. The extensive range of clinics you can be involved in will also allow you to develop and progress in the areas you enjoy.
Job responsibilities
- Evidence of practical experience delivering optometric care within a hospital, community eye service, or equivalent clinical setting, performing duties comparable to those described in the job description.
- Experience applying specialist clinical judgement to assess, diagnose, and manage patients with a range of ocular conditions, supported by a strong theoretical knowledge base.
- Experience contributing to clinical governance, including maintaining accurate clinical records, adhering to professional standards, and participating in quality or safety processes.
- Evidence of analysing and prioritising complex clinical information to formulate appropriate care plans, including in cases involving multiple risk factors or comorbidities.
- Ability to communicate clinical information clearly and appropriately to a range of audiences, including patients (adults and children), carers, and multidisciplinary colleagues.
- Evidence of maintaining accurate, high-quality clinical records using electronic patient record systems.
- Ability to manage competing priorities and workload demands, demonstrating effective time management and organisation.
- Evidence of collaborative working within a multidisciplinary team to deliver safe and effective patient care.
- Ability to deliver training or pass on knowledge, such as teaching students, supporting junior staff, or presenting clinical information.
- Competent use of digital systems, including MS Office (Word, Excel, Outlook) and electronic patient record systems.
- Demonstrates attention to detail, accuracy, and a methodical approach to clinical and administrative tasks.
- Ability to work under pressure, adapt to changing clinical demands, and maintain professionalism in challenging or emotional situations.
- Ability to undertake the physical requirements of the role, including moderate to intense effort and managing frequent interruptions.
- Ability to act as a super-user for specialist optometric equipment or extended-role clinics.
- Experience presenting clinical information formally (e.g., case presentations, teaching sessions).
- Experience using Cerner Millennium, MediSIGHT or equivalent ophthalmic system.
Benefits
- Salary: £55,524 to £62,652 a year pro rata inc
- Fixed term contract for 12 months
- Part-time working pattern
Person Specification
- Qualifications: BSc (Hons) Optometry or Ophthalmic Optics (2:1 or above) and successful completion of the College of Optometrists Scheme for Registration, demonstrating achievement of all General Optical Council (GOC) competencies.
- Current registration with the General Optical Council (GOC) - candidates must provide registration number or evidence of eligibility to register.