Parking Mistakes New Locum Optometrists In The UK Make (2026)

The One Change That Saves Time, Money, and Stress as a Locum Optometrist

As a locum optometrist, you might think your biggest challenges are dealing with blurry, upside-down OCT scans or malfunctioning visual field machines. However, the real enemy often lies in the stress and cost associated with parking. Imagine this: you're rushing to your next clinic, but instead of focusing on patient care, you're scrambling to find change for a parking meter or running back to a pay-and-display machine. It's time-consuming, stressful, and entirely unnecessary.

Over time, I've discovered a few strategies that have significantly eased my locum days. The first and most crucial tip is to ditch the pay-and-display tickets. Seriously, stop wasting time with them. Instead, embrace technology and use local parking apps like RingGo or PayByPhone. These apps are not only faster but also allow you to top up your parking remotely from the testing room if needed. This simple switch can save you precious minutes and reduce stress.

Another invaluable tip is what I like to call "The Secret Call." Whenever you receive a new locum booking, make it a habit to call the store beforehand. Ask them, "What's the insider track for parking?" While they might not have a dedicated staff car park, they often know of hidden free spots or much cheaper council car parks nearby. This insider information can be a game-changer, saving you both time and money.

Remember, time is money. Don't let five minutes of parking stress derail your entire morning. By being prepared and familiar with the parking system, you can ensure a calmer start to your day, which ultimately leads to better patient care.

In conclusion, sorting out your parking situation can significantly improve your locum experience. It's a small change with a big impact. So, take control of your parking, and you'll find that your locum days become much more manageable and enjoyable. It's that simple.