Yammy WONG

Exchange period: 20 July – 16 August 2026

During my four-week clinical placement in the Melbourne Eyecare Clinic (MEC), I observed and participated in diverse aspects of optometric care, from patient consultations to diagnostic procedures and management. MEC divided the clinic into various categories of specialty clinics according to the patient’s chief complaint, for example, dry eye clinic, glaucoma clinic, diabetic research clinic, urgent clinic, and color vision clinic.

One of the most interesting clinics for me was the cornea clinic, which only takes patients who need hard contact lenses, such as ortho K and scleral lenses. One particular standout experience occurred when I assisted with my first scleral lens fitting for a keratoconus patient. It was a brand-new learning experience for me.

Overall, my clinical placement broadened my practical skills and allowed me to witness many new ocular conditions that are rarely seen in Hong Kong. It has also improved my confidence in patient interaction, especially communicating with patients in English. It was really a fruitful journey to exchange in MEC.