An Optometry student in practice
Alethea Lim with patient, Benny Foar.
My name is Alethea Lim and I am an Optometry student in my fifth and final year of the University of Auckland (UOA) Bachelor of Optometry degree.
As Optometry students in our final year we see real patients in the Grafton Optometry Clinic. Registered Optometrists supervise our exams, assess our performance and provide feedback. Patients provide Optometry students with an opportunity to learn with a slower paced eye exam, while the patient is looked after by both an Optometry student and a registered Optometrist.
The most rewarding part of being an Optometrist is the social interaction with patients. I enjoy chatting to my patients as I am noting down test results and I take pride in seeing my patients happy and satisfied.
At a recent course workshop on Low vision, people with low vision spoke candidly about their experiences. It was inspiring to see how people moved beyond their low vision status living normal lives. Their frankness taught me that our interaction with people with low vision need not be awkward, so long as we remain considerate and understanding.
I would like those with macular disease to know that your decision to engage with Optometry students in the Grafton Eye Clinic is invaluable to students who are learning to assist people through our careers.
A Low Vision Enhancement and Rehabilitation appointment at the UOA Optometry clinic costs $65 (including 6 months unlimited visits) or $25 with a Supergold card. This involves a full eye health check and learning how to perform visual tasks that are difficult to accomplish with new techniques, visual aids and non-optical solutions such as contrast and lighting.
For appointments, mention Macular Degeneration NZ and contact:
The UOA Optometry Clinic, Level 3, Building 505, 85 Park Road, Grafton, Auckland.
Phone: 09 923 9909.
graftonclinic@auckland.ac.nz
www.optometryclinics.auckland.ac.nz
Ask reception about the available parking, when you call.
