The Optician Award for Technology Practice of the Year always attracts a high number of entrants. Many of these are little more than lists of equipment and, in these times of routine use of imaging equipment, automated fields and increasing use of specialised instrumentation, a list is no longer enough. Having whittled out the list compilers, our judges this year were still left with a very strong shortlist of finalists all of whom showed evidence of good use of the equipment, either by testimonial or case study showing the actual benefits of the instrumentation.
Specialised service
For the sheer range of equipment in use, as well as a wealth of evidence of its usefulness, the judges had no hesitation this year in choosing an overall winner. Parley Optometrists, based in West Parley, Dorset, is a relatively new practice. It was established as a new-start practice in 1999 by Steve Jones, in partnership with his recently qualified son Rob. Both were keen to provide a comprehensive community service including a more specialised service in areas such as glaucoma and diabetes screening.
Rob Jones spends most of his time at the practice but explains: 'I am also a sessional optometrist at the local eye unit at Bournemouth Hospital where I see new glaucoma referrals and follow ups.'
Undoubtedly this relationship with the local hospital eye service stands the practice in good stead and ensures that the more specialist equipment is in constant use from not just walk-ins but also patients referred directly from local ophthalmologists.
The practice has a fully integrated software system linking the database to all the imaging and data storage equipment. As well as the clinical benefits, the owners are aware of the marketing potential for such as system too and use this to help build the practice. There is also a direct link with the local diabetic screening unit via a VPN. The glaucoma screening patients have pachymetry and gonioscopy alongside the automated fields and tonometry.
The practice boasts a slit-lamp imaging system as well as a fundus camera. They also use a corneal topographer which allows them to offer more specialised lens fitting and othokeratology. Those patients opting for spectacles have the luxury of the Smart Mirror system to help with frame and lens selection. The practice also has a Colorimeter for colour overlay provision and a sphygmomanometer is used for blood pressure screening.
Wired for sound
The patient is well cared for as there is an AVA display system in the waiting room. This is useful for patient information and is also an effective marketing tool, as it demonstrates what is potentially on offer before the consultation begins. There is also an impressive Bang & Olufsen sound system allowing music to be played in every room of the practice.
It was the patient testimonials of how the use of the technology had helped them, along with evidence of excellent integration with other professionals that swung the decision for the judges.
Rob Jones was delighted to accept the award. 'I was extremely pleased,' he said. 'It has added an excellent positive aspect to the practice.'
Their involvement in the Optician Awards has been followed in the local press and their winning caused something of a stir locally. Both father and son hope this will be the springboard to future success. ?