Job Purpose
The Health Care Support Worker (HCSW) will support the smooth running of ophthalmic and Prema Health outpatient clinics, providing high-quality, compassionate care to patients attending for consultations, diagnostic investigations, and minor procedures.
The post-holder will work autonomously but under the supervision of the Consultant staff to assist with clinical procedures, perform ophthalmic diagnostic tests (such as OCT, visual fields, and fundus photography), and undertake basic clinical observations, phlebotomy, weight and ECGs and act as a chaperone. They will ensure patients are well-prepared, informed, and supported throughout their visit, maintaining the highest standards of safety, professionalism, and confidentiality. The post holder will also support with stock management and ordering.
Key Responsibilities
Clinical Support
- Support the preparation of outpatient areas, including clinic room setup up and ensure clinics run efficiently.
- Welcome and support patients, explaining procedures and answering questions, and acting as a chaperone.
- Assist consultants and nurses during examinations, injections, and minor procedures.
- Perform ophthalmic diagnostic tests (OCT, visual fields, fundus photography, IOP measurement) and treatments (Valeda).
- Carry out clinical observations (BP, pulse, temperature, weight).
- Take venous blood samples and perform ECGs.
- Document patient data and results accurately in CareBit and other data files.
- Maintain infection control standards and equipment calibration.
Operational Support
- Contribute to audits, quality improvement, and incident reporting.
- Support patient flow through clinics to minimise waiting times.
- Support the identification of opportunities to reduce waste and improve stock utilisation.
- Ensure stock is stored safely and appropriately, taking account of infection prevention and control requirements.
- Assist with ordering clinical supplies in accordance with agreed ordering processes and escalation arrangements.
- Participate in regular stock checks and report discrepancies, shortages, damaged or expired items to the appropriate person.
- Support stock rotation and ensure products are stored appropriately and within expiry dates.
- Monitor clinical stock levels within outpatient areas and identify items requiring replenishment.
- Ensure outpatient areas are stocked, clean, organised, and ready for use.
Patient Care
- Deliver person-centred, compassionate care in line with Prema Laser Vision values.
- Safeguard patient privacy and dignity.
- Assist patients with mobility, positioning, or eye-drop administration.
- Escalate any patient concerns or deterioration promptly.
Training & Development
- Complete and maintain mandatory and role-specific training (OCT, visual fields, phlebotomy, ECG).
- Participate in appraisal, supervision, and reflective learning.
- Support new staff and student orientation when required.
Governance & Safety
- Comply with CQC Fundamental Standards and organisational policies.
- Report incidents, near misses, or risks appropriately.
- Adhere to data protection and confidentiality requirements.
- Follow infection prevention and control procedures.
Key Relationships
- Medical Consultants and Ophthalmic Surgeons
- Optometrists
- Reception and Administration Team
- Patients, carers, and relatives
Person Specification
Essential
- NVQ Level 2 or 3 in Health & Social Care (or equivalent)
- Phlebotomy
- Experience in healthcare (hospital or outpatient)
- Ability to use clinical equipment safely, basic IT skills, communication
- Good organisational skills and an ability to maintain accurate stock records and manage clinical supplies effectively.
- Compassionate, reliable, organised, team player
Desirable
- Experience in ophthalmology or diagnostics
- ECG training certificates
- Knowledge of ophthalmic anatomy or conditions
- Experience of clinical stock management, ordering or inventory control.
- Flexible and proactive
Other Requirements
- Enhanced DBS clearance required.
- Commitment to professional development and upholding organisational values: Excellence – Pride – Collaboration – Agility – Patient First.
- Flexibility to work occasional weekends if required by the service
Hours: Part-time (17-22 hours TBC)
Salary: TBC depending on experience
Contract Type: Bank or Fixed Term
Pay: From £12.71 per hour
Benefits:
- Free parking
- On-site parking
Work Location: In person
