For Alem Catic, the path into optometry was less traditional than most. In fact, it wasn’t until late in his undergraduate studies that eye care even sparked his curiosity.
It was during my second year in physics at Melbourne University when we studied optics, that I became fascinated with how lenses work. Until then, I had been considering a career in research postgraduation, in either physics or biochemistry, or both. In a conversation with one of my lecturers, Ish Kumar, I was pointed in the direction of optometry.
Motivated by a desire to help people and their vision, I embarked on a journey to find out more. I scheduled an appointment with a local optometrist, Micheal Zammit, who was good enough to spend a few hours detailing the intricacies of the field within the Australian landscape. This initial immersion into the world of optometry fuelled my determination to change my direction of study. What was great for me was that Melbourne University offered the Doctor of Optometry degree. I started my new journey in 2012.
In 2016, I graduated and began exploring various areas of the profession, working alongside local and corporate optometrists while also trying my hand at locum work and working for general practitioners (GPs). I soaked up all these experiences, and discovered a preference for establishing roots in one community rather than spreading myself thin.
BEGINNING IN BACCHUS MARSH
I crossed paths with Sean Martin from George and Matilda in 2019, a growing company with an ethos that resonated with my professional aspirations. Joining their ranks, I chose to begin my tenure in Bacchus Marsh, a town of around 24,000 people 50 km from Melbourne. There I was confronted by a spectrum of eye diseases and diabetes quickly became my focus. Eager to improve my understanding of this disease, I dedicated time to self-study, engaging with local ophthalmologists, and collaborating closely with GPs. Through these interactions I was able to support patients by advising on lifestyle risk factors, long-term complications of diabetes, etc.
As my confidence grew, so did my role within the community. Establishing rapport with patients from nearby retirement villages and aged care facilities, I found fulfillment in holistic conversations about diabetes, its impact on quality of life, and long-term health outcomes. Bacchus Marsh also enabled me to boost my confidence when prescribing therapeutics for other ocular diseases.
Behavioural optometry was another service offered by our practice at Bacchus Marsh. I had no clinical experience with this but was fortunate to work with Kristine Battye, who became a mentor to me. Despite our differing schedules, she always found time to share her insights and expertise, guiding me through the complexities of assessing children and implementing effective strategies in behavioural optometry.
TRANSITIONING TO ESSENDON
In 2020, I went to work with George and Matilda Eyecare for Wood and Associates in Essendon, just as its founding optometrist, Graeme Woods, prepared to retire.
There I encountered a very different practice; it was heavily focussed on contact lenses, both soft and hard, with an emphasis on multifocals. Getting up to speed was a challenge, requiring a return to the books, a few courses, and guidance from friends. I loved it!
However, having practised as an optometrist for six years, I felt compelled to explore new horizons within the profession. This led me to add to my remit by embracing the role of Professional Services Manager for George and Matilda. Working part-time in this role complements my practise by facilitating deeper collaborations with fellow optometrists and broadening my perspective of optometry beyond clinical settings.
Meanwhile, back at Essendon, where I have been based for the past four years, I enjoy seeing my patients, their parents, and their children; and I really do feel at home. I cherish the trust my patients place in me, seeking my advice and considering me an integral part of their eye care journey.
Being connected with local ophthalmologists, general practitioners, and pharmacies has helped develop my professional practice, reinforcing the importance of collaborative healthcare in delivering optimal patient outcomes.
Teaching has also emerged as a passion; mentoring students, involving them in patient care, and nurturing their growth within the field gives me immense satisfaction. I’ve realised that it takes time to establish a career in optometry and I hope that with time, some of my passion will rub off on to them.
Alem Catic completed his Doctor of Optometry degree at Melbourne University in 2016. He practises as an optometrist at George and Matilda Eyecare for Wood and Associates in Essendon and is the Professional Services Manager for George and Matilda Eyecare.
