Exploring IP in Welsh optometry: a chat with Omair and Hamza

I had the pleasure of chatting with Omair Khan and Mohammad Hamza Anwar from Specsavers Bridgend Derwen, Wales.  They shared how they’ve motivated each other to achieve new milestones in optometry and what fuels their passion for further qualifications. Plus, they let me in on a little secret about what it’s like to work in Wales…

Thank you both for joining me today. Can you introduce yourselves and describe your current roles? 

Omair: I’m Omair, the Director Optometrist at Specsavers in Bridgend, Sainsbury’s. I’ve always wanted to become a director because it was naturally the next step in my career. I think the current partners of Bridgend saw the drive and potential I had so when the opportunity to open up a new store came along, they suggested I be a partner in it…it’s the best decision I made.  

Hamza: I’m Hamza, a resident optometrist at the same store. I started in October 2020, qualified in September 2021, and was promoted to lead optometrist about a year later.

How did you two end up working together? 

Omair: Hamza was actually the first pre-reg I supervised! We’re family friends and, funnily enough, distant relatives. When I found out he was studying optometry, I encouraged him to join the team! 

Hamza: And living close to the store made it a perfect fit for me. I literally walk to work. It’s great! 

Hamza, you’ve advanced quickly. Was that due to Omair’s influence? 

Hamza: Definitely. After qualifying, I pursued certifications in Medical Retina and Glaucoma and am now finishing my Independent Prescribing (IP) course. Omair’s support and example played a big role in that.

Omair, you’re also pursuing the IP qualification. What motivated you both to do it? 

Omair: For me, it’s about providing comprehensive care. With the IP qualification, we can offer more services in-store, almost like GPs for the eyes. Hamza’s achievements have also inspired me; he was my student, but now I’m learning from him as he’s ahead in the course. 

Hamza: I wanted to build on my certifications and the IP qualification helps us manage more patients, which is crucial given long waiting times with hospitals at the moment. 

What advice would you give to optometrists considering an IP qualification? 

Hamza: Just go for it. It might seem daunting, but universities offer lots of support, and there are helpful networks and resources available. The learning curve can be steep, but the support system is strong. 

Let’s move on to Wales. What makes it such an attractive place for optometrists to live and work? I’ve heard about quite a few people relocating there recently. 

Hamza: Jobs are easier to find here, and the cost of living is lower compared to cities like London or Bristol. Bridgend has great parks and beaches, and there are many opportunities for professional growth, especially in primary care. The work-life balance is excellent. 

Omair: Commuting is also easier because Wales is compact. You can live in one town and easily commute to another, offering a good mix of professional and personal benefits. 

Could you share the benefits of working in Wales, especially with an IP qualification? 

Omair: Wales offers a collaborative environment with health boards working closely together. This means you can use your qualifications across various parts of Wales and fully integrate your skills. Outside of Wales, transferring skills from region to region can be tough.

Hamza: Exactly. Wales is small enough that you get to know other optometrists and learn from them. The sense of community is strong, and Cardiff University provides excellent IP courses, adding to the appeal. 

Thanks for sharing your insights. Your experiences and perspectives on working and advancing in optometry, especially in Wales, are really valuable. I really look forward to seeing the continued impact of your work in the field.