PERMA in Optometry

For those who don’t know what PERMA is: it is an evidence-based model for the active ingredients of well-being that has been developed by Professor Martin Seligman who has pioneered Positive Psychology during the past couple of decades at the University of Pennsylvania. PERMA stands for Positive emotions, Engagement, Relationships, Meanings, and Accomplishment. Adding PERMA to the Optometry workplace can be for the betterment of everyone. As a model, it has its importance for caring for patients and for helping employees too. In the workplace, PERMA can strengthen the relationship and helps employees perform better while inspiring them to become more creative.

For patients, the Positive Emotions approach of the Optometrist gives internal satisfaction as it benefits the patient in overcoming his vision problems. The positive approach helps Optometry staff to look forward to positive outcomes and better results as they struggle to make ends meets.

Engagement from both the Optometrist/staff and the patient is crucial for success. Reminding patients about their next eye test appointment or their next contact lenses replacement date is an example of effective engagement.

Relationships in the Optometry practice are very important. Relationships benefit the practice from the patient’s loyalty, and benefit the patient from allowing the practitioner to understand the patient’s visual needs and be able to apply his extensive Optometry knowledge to improve the quality of care.

Meanings reflect why Optometrist dedicate their lives to learning the latest solutions for eye problems and helping people see better. Meanings help build confidence in the patient that an Optometrist is a person he can count on.

Achievement can be a simple as providing several comprehensive eye exams per day or building a highly valued practice. Getting the patient to understand his eye problems and how to cope with them is a great achievement. It brings a sense of self-accomplishment and self-esteem in every patient and makes the optometrist feel he has done a great achievement by improving the patient’s condition.

Aiming to develop well-being in the optometry workplace for both staff and patients happily provides better eye care and reduces the risks of staff burnout.