Pre-reg advice: The hospital experience

Part of the fun of being a pre-reg optometrist is the vast variety of experience gained within the cycle. An enjoyable component for many community practice students is the hospital experience where the trainee is able to observe more closely the workings of NHS eye care and learn about the diagnostic and management techniques used outside of practice. The experience is also intended to help the trainee gain an understanding of the importance of their own referral decisions and the effects and outcomes of those decisions. It is a pivotal part of the scheme.

Which hospital?

There are usually a few ophthalmology departments within a reasonable radius of any practice. Sometimes circumstances may dictate which hospital to attend, while in other cases the pre-reg may have a choice available. The trainee should be prepared to travel if necessary, the experience is essential and regardless of which hospital is attended the trainee is sure to meet an array of eye care professionals to learn from, whom will influence their work and careers.