Optometric advisor eyes national award for improving patient care

Swansea Bay’s optometry advisor has received national recognition for his support and vision to improve eye care for patients and staff.

Mohammed Islam’s role as an optometric advisor sees him advise and support the health board in managing and improving its eye care services.

This can involve helping to develop new services, advising on policies, overseeing training and education, supporting local opticians and helping to bridge the gap between community and hospital eye care.

His dedication to the role has seen him shortlisted in the Health Board Support category at this year’s Optometry Wales Awards, held in Cardiff on 29th November.

Esther Harrison, branch manager at M&S Opticians in Llanelli’s Parc Trostre, nominated Mohammed (pictured), known as Raf, for his hard work.

She said: “Raf consistently exceeds expectations by voluntarily dedicating a significant amount of his personal time to support, advocate for and represent the optometry profession, both at local and national levels.

“He is proactive, and his involvement and commitment has had a positive impact on the delivery of eye care services in Swansea Bay.

“One of his most notable contributions has been the successful implementation of multiple clinical pathways that are now crucial to the way optometry services function within the health board.

“He played a central role in the introduction of new pathways which have improved the efficiency, accessibility and clinical quality of our services.

“This has helped to provide more timely and appropriate care for patients.”

Raf was involved in introducing the new stroke pathway, which allows community-based optometrists to refer patients with stroke symptoms directly to hospital specialists, reducing the time they must wait.

Previously, if a patient displayed stroke related symptoms, optometrists would have to refer them to their GP practice or the Emergency Department.

“This is another example of his forward-thinking approach,” Esther added.

“This pathway has enabled faster and more accurate identification of these patients, ensuring they receive the urgent care they need, while relieving pressure on secondary care services.

“Raf has enhanced the profile of optometry within the NHS and strengthened the link between primary and secondary care, which has resulted in improvements in patient outcomes.”

He has also been recognised for helping to increase training and education opportunities, helping to upskill staff in requested areas.

A new teach and treat clinic was recently introduced in Neath Port Talbot Hospital as a way of supporting optometrists studying for their independent prescribing qualification.

As well as supporting staff during their placements, the clinic helps to reduce waiting times for patients in the area too.

Esther said: “Raf is a champion for innovation and professional development.

“He listens to feedback from optometrists and takes the time to understand the challenges they face on the ground.

“He organises local workshops and skills sessions, often tailored to areas where optometrists have requested additional training.

“These sessions have helped to upskill staff, improved clinical confidence and also encouraged an environment where practitioners can learn from each other.”

Raf and colleagues will have to wait until Saturday 29th November to find out whether he has been successful at the awards ceremony.

He said: “I feel really proud to be shortlisted for this award.

“I’m very grateful to work within such a supportive primary care team.

“It’s incredibly rewarding to see the work we do being recognised, and I’m thankful to be part of a team and community that make it all possible.”

Esther added: “Raf is a vital link between optometrists and the health board, making sure frontline voices are heard at decision-making levels.

“His input helps to shape more effective pathways and better working conditions, ultimately leading to better patient care.”