Member Spotlight – World Sight Day 2024 – Shahnaz Rind

Shahnaz is a proud Yamatji woman and a recipient of the IAHA Brien Holden Vision Scholarship. Shahnaz is currently completing her final year of Doctor of Optometry at the University of Western Australia. Shahnaz shared the following reflection from her first semester this year.

Earlier this year, I sat for the OSCE (Observed Structured Clinical Examination) exams, a significant milestone in my studies. The OSCE consists of ten different stations, each presenting unique patient scenarios to test a range of clinical skills. Successfully passing the OSCE was a crucial step in my journey to becoming a proficient Optometrist. Following this achievement, I embarked on my first clinical rotation in Geraldton, Western Australia. Geraldton offered a unique and enriching environment for my first clinical rotation. During this period, I encountered a wide range of eye conditions, which significantly enhanced my understanding and management skills in ophthalmology. Some key learning experiences included:

• Diagnosing and managing common eye conditions such as conjunctivitis, glaucoma, and cataracts.
• Performing comprehensive eye examinations.
• Understanding the importance of early detection and treatment of eye diseases to prevent long-term complications.

The hands-on experience in Geraldton allowed me to develop essential practical skills, including:

• Proficiency in using ophthalmic instruments like the slit lamp and ophthalmoscope.
• Conducting consultations under supervision.
• Effective patient communication and education on eye health.

One of the highlights of my rotation was the opportunity to participate in an outreach program to Mt Magnet, a region with significance as it is where my family is from. This experience was both professionally and personally rewarding. Working in Mt Magnet allowed me to engage closely with the community, providing much-needed healthcare services.

Additionally, I had the privilege of extending my outreach efforts to Carnarvon. This experience further broadened my understanding of rural healthcare. The outreach in Carnarvon was vital in:

• Delivering essential eye care services to an underserved population.
• Collaborating with local healthcare providers to ensure continuity of care.
• Educating the community on the importance of regular eye examinations and preventive eye care.
• Understanding the unique healthcare needs and challenges faced by rural and remote communities.
• Building rapport and trust within the community, which is crucial for effective healthcare delivery.
• Gaining insights into cultural competence and the importance of culturally sensitive care.

IAHA is proud to be a part of Shahnaz’s student journey and see her growth as a future optometrist. Please see the IAHA website for more information about IAHA scholarships and bursaries.