BLOG: The eager workforce
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In the cover story of this issue of Ocular Surgery News, we focus on a worldwide shortage of cyclopentolate, the cycloplegic eye drop used commonly in pediatric exams and, more recently, for myopia control.
The shortage of this medication, which is believed to be partly due to a shortage of employees at the manufacturers and their suppliers, is hardly surprising in today’s world in which employee shortages seem to be everywhere. Many medical practices too are reporting a shortage of staff to perform even basic functions. Many workers have retired, and many thousands have just not yet returned to work, whether slowed by extended unemployment benefits or inertia after a year-long pandemic.
In my practice, we have found a workforce that is not only capable and eager but also inspiring. Many of our technicians and support staff are at a transition point in their education from undergraduate to professional school (medical, optometry or PA training). Because these graduate school positions are so competitive, students take 1 or more years to bolster their résumé, prepare for standardized testing and grow up a little.
These kids are smart, energetic and eager to hone their clinical skills. Whatever lack of experience they have is made up for by their basic ability and interest. Because most of them want a letter of recommendation upon their departure, they know they must leave a good impression on everyone in our practice, and indeed we are happy to recommend most of them enthusiastically.
Most of all, it’s really fun to work with these kids who will one day be professionals just like us. We have a privilege and responsibility to teach them well — to let their first clinical job be one that is rewarding and offers them personal growth. After working with us, very few steer away from medical careers, and most will make us extremely proud in the future. In our lunchroom we have a growing “wall of fame,” where we post a photo and story of our “graduates” and what they’ve gone on to become. Their stories inspire the next generation. The best part is one enthusiastic tech has two friends with similar personalities and goals. Recruiting their friends fills our office with a hard-working, bright-eyed, smart staff who are a pleasure to work with every day.
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