Why I can't imagine doing anything else

Why I can’t imagine doing anything else

Anish, a domiciliary optometry partner in Nottingham for over a decade, talks about why he's so passionate about home visits—and tells the unforgettable story of one patient whose life was transformed thanks to his care.

Early career 

My career in optometry started with weekend work as an optical assistant in a high street practice. After completing my Optometry degree, I went back to the same practice for my pre-reg and then spent five years as a resident optometrist there. I had the chance to supervise and mentor new optometrists, which I loved but after a while, I began to feel like I needed something more challenging and something that would push me out of the routine.

That’s when I got involved in medical camps abroad, giving eyecare to communities in need. Seeing patients with all sorts of eye conditions and limited access to care was a realisation- I wanted to work more directly with people that needed that additional level of help. That’s how I found my way into domiciliary optometry.

A new adventure

I started as a locum, shadowing some experienced domiciliary optometrists. I loved the job’s variety. Every day felt like a bit of a new adventure—different environments, new faces, and fresh challenges. The most rewarding part was seeing the impact my work on patients' lives.

It was a life-changing moment.

One of the most memorable moments in my career happened with a man who had become isolated because his vision had deteriorated to the point where he could barely see anything. He’d grown anxious and agoraphobic because of it, but when I examined him, I picked up that he had bilateral cataracts. I explained to him that surgery could really change his life. He was nervous about the idea of having to go for treatment, but I reassured him and walked him through the process. I even helped him to map out the journey to and from the clinic.

A few weeks later, after his surgery, I visited him again. The difference was amazing. He was more confident, had started using his mobility scooter to get out and about, and was even socialising again. It was a life-changing moment. Not just for him, but for me too.

Making a difference

Domiciliary optometry is not without its challenges. Whether it’s working with patients who have mild cognitive impairments or testing in unfamiliar settings, there’s always something new to navigate. But for me, these challenges are part of what makes the job so rewarding. I get to meet people in their own homes and help them regain a bit of independence through better vision. Small adjustments, like improving lighting or offering tips on posture, can make a big difference in someone's life, and seeing their gratitude is what keeps me going.

Improving quality of life

I can’t imagine doing anything else now. Domiciliary optometry allows me to connect with people on a personal level, and to really make a difference in their day-to-day lives. If you're looking for a career that lets you make a noticeable impact, I can't recommend it enough. It’s all about offering hope, bringing clarity, and improving quality of life.