An optician with 20 years’ of specialist knowledge working with children has joined Blackburn practice AJ Spurrett.
Derek McPhee worked most recently as Paediatric Optometrist at the Royal Preston Hospital, where he screened children of all ages, as well as adults with low vision who have suffered significant vision loss due to eye diseases.
He has 12 years’ experience as a Paediatric Optometrist at the Royal Preston Hospital, as well as specialist experience at Southport and Formby District Hospital.
“Having hospital experience has given me a much wider set of skills and knowledge, and I’ve dealt with some complex cases,” Derek said.
“One thing I’ve noticed already is that the patients at AJ Spurrett are very loyal, which makes it easier dealing with friendly patients who really know the practice.
“My main passion is testing children, but I do enjoy the buzz of helping people who are having problems with their vision and being able to solve them,” Derek said.
His arrival is already proving to be a huge asset to the team at AJ Spurrett in Richmond Terrace, Blackburn.
Team Leader Jo Morykin says patients have commented about how thorough and clinical their sight tests have been.
“It’s really beneficial for us having Derek on the team. His hospital experience is invaluable and he’s very clinical with his sight tests. Derek has a very caring attitude and fits in well into our team,” Mrs Morykin said.
Since qualifying as an optometrist in 1994, Derek has kept a keen interest in furthering his clinical knowledge and skills, as well as gaining optometrist experience at practices around the country.
Derek completed his MSc in Investigative Ophthalmology and Vision Sciences at Manchester Royal Eye Hospital in 2002, and he also has a Higher Diploma in Orthoptics (Eye Movement Disorders) from the College of Optometrists, which he finished in 2006.
AJ Spurrett has been offering expert eye care for over 25 years. Their knowledgeable and friendly team pride themselves on high levels of customer service.
