Optometrist

Role Overview

This role places a qualified optometrist at the front line of patient vision care, performing everyday clinical duties such as eye examinations, refraction assessments, and contact lens fittings. Working within a busy practice environment, the optometrist will be responsible for identifying visual abnormalities, prescribing corrective and therapeutic measures, and guiding patients toward long-term eye health. The position matters because it directly supports the clinic’s mission to deliver accurate, accessible, and professional optometry services to the surrounding community, reducing preventable vision loss and improving quality of life.

Key Responsibilities

• Conduct full eye examinations, including visual acuity testing, tonometry, and slit-lamp evaluations, to diagnose refractive errors and ocular pathologies.
• Prescribe and verify eyeglasses and contact lenses, ensuring prescriptions are accurate and tailored to each patient’s lifestyle and visual demands.
• Fit and trial contact lenses, providing thorough instruction on insertion, removal, hygiene, and wearing schedules; perform follow-up assessments to monitor comfort and corneal health.
• Detect, evaluate, and manage conditions such as glaucoma, cataracts, macular degeneration, and diabetic retinopathy, referring patients to ophthalmologists or other specialists when advanced care is required.
• Maintain complete and confidential patient records using the practice’s computer systems, updating medical histories and documenting test results clearly.
• Educate patients on eye health, preventive practices, UV protection, and proper use of prescribed optical aids, ensuring they understand their conditions and treatment plans.
• Provide pre-operative and post-operative support for surgical patients, including coordinating referrals, performing follow-up measurements, and offering recovery guidance.
• Adhere to professional standards and the Optometrists’ Association of Kenya code of ethics, keeping all equipment sterilised and calibrated and reporting any clinical safety concerns promptly.

Requirements & Qualifications

• Hold a recognised Diploma in Optometry from an accredited institution, with comprehensive theoretical and clinical training.
• Be a licensed optometrist registered with the Optometrists’ Association of Kenya, with an active practising certificate.
• Have a minimum of one (1) year of hands-on experience in an optometric practice, hospital eye clinic, or similar clinical setting.
• Possess strong computer application skills, including the ability to use electronic health records, diagnostic equipment software, and Microsoft Office tools for reporting and communication.
• Demonstrate excellent communication skills, both written and verbal, with the capacity to explain technical findings to patients in clear, empathetic language and to cooperate effectively with colleagues.
• Show attention to detail in patient assessment and record-keeping, along with a commitment to ongoing professional development and continuing education in optometry.