Specsavers’ Dame Mary Perkins Award for Outstanding Patient Care honours optometrists who have made an extraordinary impact on the vision and lives of their patients. Insight talks to some of the finalists about that impact and how it has affected their clients and themselves.
SPECSAVERS STATS:
Name: Shray Kamath | Current position: Optometrist | Location: Specsavers Lower Hutt, Wellington, NZ | Years within the business: 1 (optical dispenser from 2021-2025).
Why did you pursue an optometry career?
I chose optometry because I have always been drawn to work centred around meaningful interactions with people and new daily challenges. I felt it would allow me to build long-term relationships with patients while maintaining a good work-life balance. Fond memories of my own eye examinations growing up also helped me realise optometry was a great fit.
How did you come to work at Specsavers?
I have always held a positive impression of Specsavers, remembering welcoming and professional visits with family members. During my studies, attending Specsavers-hosted events and speaking with graduate optometrists highlighted the strong support in the Graduate Programme. This aligned with what I was looking for, so it felt like the right place to start my career.
Why were you nominated for the Dame Mary Perkins Award?
I recently identified a superior (exudative) macula-on left eye retinal detachment on an 11-year old boy who presented to our practice following a two-three day history of sudden left eye vision loss. During the examination, I placed an immediate emergency referral to Wellington Hospital.
What did you do in handling this case?
After the initial consultation, I contacted the eye registrar at Wellington Hospital to arrange a same-day emergency referral. The registrar advised the patient and his mum to present immediately. The family had no means of transport, so I personally arranged and paid for an Uber to ensure the child reached the hospital promptly.
What was the outcome?
The patient presented to Wellington Hospital the same day, where surgical procedures and investigations were performed. After several days of testing and multiple procedures, the cause of the detachment was treated, resolving the detachment and restoring vision in his left eye.
How did Specsavers’ training and support help you with this patient?
Having multiple in-store mentors meant I could discuss clinical questions with trusted colleagues. That support helped build my confidence in handling emergency presentations independently. Technology such as OCT was pivotal, clearly capturing the detachment and guiding my referral.
What did you learn from helping and supporting the patient?
This experience showed me how rewarding it is to preserve a patient’s vision and make a meaningful difference. I felt fulfilled knowing I could positively impact a young boy’s future and support his family. It also reinforced my appreciation for the support I receive from my store and the wider organisation.
Why are you proud to be a Specsavers optometrist?
I am proud to work in an environment where accessible, high-quality and affordable eye care is prioritised. It allows us to reach patients who might not otherwise have access to eyecare. The strong support across the organisation also helps graduates grow into experienced optometrists.
