We're in the middle of a pandemic where social distancing is encouraged. Yet Optical practices are doing the opposite to line their pockets with no regard for patient safety or Optometrists working conditions.

For patients and customers not aware, after each eye exam the Optometrist will disinfect the room, clean down all equipment and change PPE. Initially they were given a necessary 30 minutes per appointment to do this. Appointment times have now been reduced, but Multiples have also gone down the unethical route of adding a ghost clinic (Vison Express and Specsavers). Essentially eradicating any sort of cleaning time. To people not aware, a ghost clinic is where extra patient appointments are booked alongside a full clinic. At any one time, there could be 3 patients for one appointment. Optometrists have been told to absorb the load as its "essential for business needs". I have witnessed Optometrists having no time for any sort of break, nor have they been able to leave on time. The only way to run on time would be to either compromise on the quality of the eye exam or compromise on the quality of the cleaning. Both of which are vital. All Optometrists want is for multiples to be held accountable. In times when social distancing is essential, they are doing the complete opposite. They have no regard for working conditions nor are they concerned about the pressure placed on Optometrists and the impact on patient eye examinations.
During these uncertain times, Optometrists are reluctant to change jobs hence being exploited. Please sign and share to get safer working conditions for Optometrist and allow us to provide a thorough eye test without compromise.