Joe Warchal
BSc(Hons) MCOptom DipTp (IP) Prof Cert Med Ret
Former Olchfa pupil Joe spent the first part of his career travelling as far west as Cardigan and as far east as Bath. While living in Hendrefoilan with his wife and 1 year old daughter, he jumped at the chance to work part time in Killay Opticians and first experience the freedom of working in independent practice.
The COVID pandemic of 2020 meant that all routine sight testing stopped for a while and an opportunity was taken to work in the Amman Valley hospital medical retina IVT clinic. This provided experience working in secondary care assessing age related macular degeneration patients. Prompted by this clinical role, Joe embarked upon his independent prescribing studies becoming one of the few independent prescribing opticians in Swansea. This means that Joe has a prescription pad much like a doctor or dentist and can prescribe ocular medication without the need for a trip to hospital. A further professional certificate in medical retina has been achieved and is currently working towards his low vision qualifications.
Having wanted to open his own practice since he was 12 years old, the chance finally presented itself in 2024 with a unit in Killay Square becoming available and the closing of the old practice further down Gower road. As one of the few remaining 100% independent opticians in Swansea, the flexible, friendly nature of Killay Opticians will be continued by Joe. More modern equipment and more appointment availability will ensure Killay Square Eyes will be the family opticians the local community deserves.
