Continuing our Get to Know the Board series, we’re introducing the people who help shape and support the work of Optometry Scotland (OS).
This Friday, we’re getting to know the new Independent West Representative and OS Director, Gemma Hill. Gemma shares more about her background and experience, as well as the issues that matter most to her across community optometry.
Over the coming weeks, we’ll continue to feature members of the OS Board and highlight the different perspectives and experience they bring to our work.
Can you tell us a bit about your current role and what your day-to-day work involves?
I am an independent prescribing optometrist with a practice in Linwood, Renfrewshire and a supervisor for the final year Optometry clinics at Glasgow Caledonian University. Although I do see patients, I spend a majority of my time supervising! If I’m not at the university then I’m in my practice supervising my pre-reg, Emma, and my IP trainee, Alison.
What first inspired you to pursue a career in optometry?
I randomly got a job as an optical assistant and loved working with the optometrists. It took a while, but eventually I realised it was a job I really wanted to do.
What do you enjoy most about working in community optometry?
My practice has really concentrated on delivering high value clinical investigations and advice to our patients. The patients could not be more grateful and I think this gives me an incredibly high sense of job satisfaction.
What motivated you to get involved with Optometry Scotland?
I found Optometry Scotland to be incredibly supportive during the pandemic. In addition, their commitment to pursuing sight test fee uplifts has meant that my practice has been able to grow. We’ve been able to take on new staff, build a new clinic room, and have all been able to qualify as IP Optometrists. I hope that we can continue to deliver this to help other independent practices blossom.
What do you see as the biggest opportunities for optometry in Scotland over the next few years?
I think that negotiating the best possible mode of delivery for the foundation year training will ensure the smoothest transition to the new education model and the best output of new generation optometrists.
What are you most looking forward to in your role on the Optometry Scotland Board?
I’m excited to engage with other independent members and get more input into the direction Optometry Scotland should be going in.
What advice would you give to someone starting out in optometry today?
Get involved! Networking can start before you even start university; get a job in an opticians and befriend the whole team. At university, become a student representative for the AOP or College. Optometry is a small profession and it’s helpful to develop a wide network.
Outside of work, what do you enjoy doing in your spare time?
I very much enjoy getting out in good weather for a cycle or a run, but swimming, reading, and generally spending time with my family are my favourite pastimes.
A big thank you to Gemma for taking the time to answer our questions and share more about her experience.
Stay tuned for next week, when we’ll be introducing another member of the OS Board.