Being a Sunshine Coast Optometrist really means something to me. Not stuck in a city, not being forced to work in a retail situation upselling people into glasses that they do not need, being a Sunshine Coast Optometrist means not only a great lifestyle but also the freedom to practice in a way that is professional, ethical, fun and relaxed!
The Ethical Sunshine Coast Optometrist
In the field of optics, ethics is one area that is people are constantly calling into question. There are always anecdotes from patients who have been prescribed glasses they did not need, or more frequently being upgraded into a design which simply does not suit their needs, or was way beyond their budget. I certainly do not want to be a Sunshine Coast Optometrist whose patients feel they have been “upsold”!
My solution to the problem has been simple… I always discuss what my tests have revealed, giving 3 or 4 options of the way in which someone can use glasses or contacts lenses to help. I then allow the patient themselves to decide their preferred method of dealing with the problem. This leaves all of the decision making in the hands of the patient, rather than myself forcing them into a high cost solution which may not even suit their situation, or their budget.
Being an ethical and honest Sunshine Coast Optometrist is essential for me. Sure, I want to make money and I want a busy practice, but not at the expense of my integrity, and that is the way I live my life and practice.
The Relaxed Sunshine Coast Optometrist
Being a Sunshine Coast Optometrist is all about being relaxed. My practice is in the hinterland, far from big shopping centres and vast crowds, in a town called Palmwoods where I have to walk down the street and look people in the eye! I book my appointments spaced further apart than most other Optometrists, allowing time to sit, laugh and solve problems in a relaxed atmosphere. My staff are also relaxed and not stresses, and because I see so many children, we always have a party atmosphere in the office.
The Innovative Sunshine Coast Optometrist
Being in a hinterland town, I also have the time and the opportunity to develop and pioneer new ideas. I design my own vision therapy, and am the only Sunshine Coast Optometrist to do so. I also explore the latest in myopia reduction and treatment, as well as the newest contact lens innovations, multifocal designs and a host of other eye treatments.
In other words, I leave myself a little more time and use it to produce cutting edge treatments. I think that this is a valid use of time, and it also keeps my interest and understanding growing throughout the year!
So my aim is not simple to be an average, garden-variety Optometrist. I strive always to offer that little bit more for all our patients, in every field of eye examination and treatment. Being relaxed, professional, ethical and innovative… That’s what being a Sunshine Coast Optometrist means to me!

