Post-Pandemic: Legacy systems

It has now been over two years since the Covid-19 pandemic drove a horse and cart through the optometric profession, but only now are we starting to see glimpses of the lasting changes.

Whether it is the full-scale adoption of personal protective equipment (PPE), greater use of remote testing technology or even changes to appointments, the impact of the pandemic on everyday practice has been profound. Some of the changes were simply a means to an end during a time in need, but there have been unexpected benefits to introducing new ways of working and adhering to infection control protocols.

Introduction of PPE was perhaps the starkest difference as UK optometrists started to see patients requiring emergency treatment in the early phase of the pandemic. Use of face masks was mandated by the government for healthcare professionals in patient-facing roles, and many practitioners chose to don full scrubs and eye protection. As government requirements on the public’s use of face masks have eased, so too has adherence, but while much of the public is opting for a care-free approach, practitioners are not of the same attitude.