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- Tasks: Assist in surgeries, conduct pre-operative tests, and support patients throughout their eye care journey.
- Company: Join Optical Express, the UK's leading provider of laser eye and cataract surgery with over 35 years of excellence.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, free eye surgery, generous leave, and ongoing training opportunities.
- Why this job: Be part of a caring team that transforms lives while working in modern clinics across the UK.
- Qualifications: Excellent communication skills, adaptability, and a professional attitude are essential; travel flexibility required.
- Other info: Travel costs covered by the company; no night shifts and a supportive management structure.
The predicted salary is between 21600 - 37800 £ per year.
Title: Healthcare Assistant
Location: London
Hours: 40 hours per week
Salary: £27,000 per annum
*Please note this role will require you to travel to our different clinics throughout the UK
Optical Express is focused on delivering exceptional patient care, outstanding clinical outcomes and continued investment in our people and technology.
For over 35 years, millions of patients have trusted Optical Express with their eye care. As the UK\’s leading private provider of laser eye, premium intraocular lens and cataract surgery, our Surgeons undertake more laser procedures collectively than any other provider. We look after thousands of patients in our clinics every week and it’s a privilege to transform the lives of so many.
The Optical Express team work together, collectively and consistently striving for excellence. We support each other, respect each other and are committed to a culture of care, trust and integrity.
The culture extends to our local communities, through our range of charitable and environmental projects. We focus on doing what is right for our patients, our colleagues, our local communities and our planet.
Due to continued growth, a fantastic opportunity has arisen to join Optical Express as a Surgery Associate (Healthcare Assistant) based in our London Clinics.
The role involves travelling to cover other Optical Express surgery clinics (travel costs will be covered by Company)
Key Responsibilities and Accountabilities:
Following appropriate training, supervised practice and competency achievement assessments, you will be able to undertake all designated roles within the surgery team working across two surgical specialities: laser vision correction department (LVC) and ophthalmic (IOL) theatres.
You will also be responsible for the following:
- Pre-operative testing; conducting tests prior to examination and treatment and assisting during the consent appointment process, including providing information to patients prior to their IOL or LVC procedure.
- Patient discharging; instructing the patient pre and post procedure on the care of the eyes, updating medical records, making follow up appointments.
- Laser technician; preparation and calibration of the lasers, understanding data, loading and transferring data, safe running of the lasers.
- Co-ordinating: Controlling patient flow on the day of the consent appointment and surgery appointments to ensure minimum waiting times for patients and managing queries.
- Assisting the surgeon during consent appointments and treatments – acting as scrub assistant (LVC only); taking notes for the surgeon; instilling eye drops.
- Undertaking the role of ‘HCA’ (Healthcare Assistant) in IOL theatre to assist the surgical team and patients during surgery and associated tasks such as decontamination of instruments.
- Actively participating in the end of treatment day activities; updating patient files, filing, compiling ‘end of day’ reports for head office, cleaning the department, stock and lens ordering.
- Reporting untoward incidents – taking an active role in patient safety issues and quality and risk management.
Essential Skills
- Excellent communication and presentation skills
- Ability to absorb and convey highly technical information
- Adaptable with a flexible approach to work
- Excellent time management skills and ability to prioritise tasks
- A confident and professional individual who has fantastic organisational skills
- Excellent telephone manner
- Demonstrate confidentiality, integrity and discretion
- Flexibility to travel to other clinics on a regular basis (travel costs will be covered by Optical Express)
What’s in it for you?
- A market leading salary
- No night shift
- State of the art, modern working environments
- 29 days’ annual leave per annum
- Free Laser Eye Surgery and Intraocular Lens Surgery
- Free eye tests
- Discounted prescription eyewear and sunglasses
- Generous Optical Express friends and family discount scheme
- Ongoing training and development opportunities
- An accessible management team and transparent management structure
- Working in a larger clinical team means less pressure on our staff and more time to spend with our patients
- Full visibility of 6-weeks\’ rota
This is a fantastic opportunity to join a global organisation where you will have the opportunity to grow and develop within a professional working environment.
Optical Express is an equal opportunities employer.
Healthcare Assistant employer: Optical Express
Contact Detail:
Optical Express Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Healthcare Assistant
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the specific responsibilities of a Healthcare Assistant in a surgical setting. Understanding the nuances of pre-operative testing and patient care will help you stand out during interviews.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with current or former employees of Optical Express. They can provide valuable insights into the company culture and expectations, which can be beneficial when discussing your fit for the role.
✨Tip Number 3
Demonstrate your adaptability and willingness to travel by highlighting any previous experiences where you've successfully managed similar responsibilities. This will show that you're ready for the demands of the job.
✨Tip Number 4
Prepare to discuss how you would handle patient safety issues and quality management during your interview. Being able to articulate your approach to these critical aspects will showcase your commitment to patient care.
We think you need these skills to ace Healthcare Assistant
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience and skills that align with the Healthcare Assistant role. Emphasise your communication skills, adaptability, and any previous healthcare experience.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your passion for patient care and your understanding of the responsibilities outlined in the job description. Mention your ability to work in a team and your commitment to maintaining high standards of care.
Highlight Relevant Skills: In your application, specifically mention skills such as time management, organisational abilities, and your capacity to handle technical information. These are crucial for the role and should be clearly articulated.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting, carefully proofread your CV and cover letter for any spelling or grammatical errors. A polished application reflects your attention to detail and professionalism.
How to prepare for a job interview at Optical Express
✨Research the Company
Before your interview, take some time to learn about Optical Express. Understand their values, mission, and the services they provide. This will help you align your answers with their expectations and show that you're genuinely interested in being part of their team.
✨Prepare for Technical Questions
As a Healthcare Assistant, you'll need to demonstrate your understanding of medical procedures and patient care. Brush up on relevant terminology and be ready to discuss how you would handle specific scenarios related to pre-operative testing and patient discharging.
✨Showcase Your Communication Skills
Excellent communication is key in this role. Be prepared to give examples of how you've effectively communicated with patients or colleagues in the past. Highlight your ability to convey complex information clearly and compassionately.
✨Demonstrate Flexibility and Adaptability
Since the role involves travelling to different clinics, it's important to show that you're adaptable. Share experiences where you've successfully adjusted to new environments or changes in your work routine, emphasising your willingness to embrace challenges.
