I was fortunate enough to be able to complete my pre-registration year in a large hospital department. Not only did this mean that I was working with other pre-reg optometrists, but also had access to a variety of qualified practitioners. Some of these offered good advice, others less so, and often there were conflicting views which forced me to go away and think about what was best for me.
Even without the glow of nostalgia, I can honestly say that I learned most from discussions and arguments after work, often in the pub around the corner. Far more than I ever learned sitting in a lecture theatre.
I recall this as, earlier this week, I attended a meeting held at the new GOC building where CET approvers had gathered to discuss the latest CET requirements and to ensure a co-ordinated approach to approvals. One clear point about the enhanced CET scheme introduced over the last three year cycle agreed by all was the success of interactive CET. I hope you will agree that, despite some reservations about baring your soul in front of colleagues, peer discussions have proved not only popular but an excellent way of discussing aspects of practice and offering the opportunity of making sure what you do is appropriate and, if not, allowing you to think about modifying your practice to keep up to date.
The new cycle, which began this year, has changed little but one important area is the establishment of distinct models for interactive distance learning CET. Next week we will be launching the first of what I hope will be a monthly interactive exercise and the long-term aim is to cover the required number for each target group by the time this cycle is over. I hope they prove useful and offer an alternative to a one way flow of facts.
