National Eye Health Week takes place each year at the end of September to promote the importance of good eye health. In this case study we hear from Joanne Fu and Awais Ahmad, Specialist Ophthalmic Science Practitioners (OSP) in Glaucoma at Manchester Royal Eye Hospital on the role they play in helping patients with their vision. Manchester Royal Eye Hospital is part of Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust, who is a member of the Greater Manchester Diagnostics Network.
What is your area of expertise? 
- Glaucoma
- Ophthalmic Imaging and Diagnostics
How did you develop skills in this area?
We attended the University of Manchester to undertake the Professional Certificate in Glaucoma course. We also shadowed consultant ophthalmologists and specialist optometrists in Glaucoma clinics at Manchester Royal Eye Hospital.
Why did you choose a career in your specialist area?
Disorders of the optic nerve are a complicated yet interesting area; not only does investigation provide information for the detection of Glaucoma, but it also provides insight into other medical conditions involving other sub-specialties in Ophthalmology i.e. Neurological and Uveitic conditions affecting the eyes.
What does a typical day involve?
Every day is different; as Glaucoma OSP’s we have roles in face-to-face clinics to aid clinicians with their diagnosis and management, by performing a series of diagnostic tests e.g. Tonometry, Pachymetry, Visual Fields and OCT capture. We take a comprehensive history and symptoms analysis on patients prior to their final consultation.
Our involvement in the imaging and diagnostics department, particularly virtual Glaucoma evaluation clinics, is that of training for our fellow practitioners in areas such as Goldmann Applanation Tonometry (for the measurement of Intra Ocular Pressure) and Visual Field’s testing.
As Glaucoma OSP’s we are the port-of-call for our team running virtual clinics across Manchester, in the event of patient issues e.g. high Intra Ocular Pressures. As “on-call practitioners” for the department, we are contactable to offer our advice, to the best of our ability. Based on a patient's presenting signs we may make the decision to refer that patient to the Eye Emergency Centre – if we believe the issues are urgent and/or sight-threatening.
We also play a role in the management and co-ordination of clinics, as well as helping to make decisions at Glaucoma service meetings with the wider team.
What's been your biggest inspiration?
Seeing how the work of clinicians here at the Manchester Royal Eye Hospital has helped to improve the quality of life for patients, and how early detection and a high quality of care can positively impact a patient’s treatment and care.
It is rewarding to work with a team of highly accomplished and supportive clinicians who are experts in their field.
How have you grown in the profession?
Having only been in position for a few months, our role is constantly evolving and we take on new opportunities and responsibilities every day. It is exciting yet rewarding.
What has been your biggest achievement so far?
Seeing first-hand how our care can positively impact the lives of patients accessing the Glaucoma service; whether it be patients who we have seen for repeat follow-ups, or detecting changes in a patient’s pathology and ensuring they are seen urgently, preventing sight-loss and other issues.
What advice would you give to someone looking for a career in your specialist area?
Practice, Practice, Practice! It’s imperative to take initiative and shadow clinicians to gain a better understanding of the practical skills and level of knowledge and communication required for the role.
As challenging as aspects of the role can be, it is increasingly rewarding, and it is reassuring to have such a supportive team on hand here at Manchester Royal Eye Hospital. We look forward to seeing where the role takes us next!