Unlocking resource in ophthalmology through closer working with optometry

Unlocking resource in ophthalmology through closer working with optometry

THE role of optometrists in unlocking resource in ophthalmology – benefitting patients and the NHS – is being highlighted during this year’s National Eye Health Week.

Newmedica, which provides NHS and private ophthalmology services, says optometrists’ critical role in eye care can be enhanced and is actively supporting this.

‘Optometrists do an incredibly important job and National Eye Health Week, with its focus on eye health, is a great time to recognise that,’ says Jagdeep Singh, an optometrist and Newmedica Head of Clinical Proposition.

‘It’s also an opportunity to shine a light on how resource in ophthalmology can be unlocked through closer working with optometry to ensure timely access to care – which is good for patients and eases pressures on the NHS. To achieve this, Newmedica is collaborating with primary care colleagues.’

Mr Singh points to Newmedica’s accredited post-operative scheme, which thousands of community optometrists are already part of, as an example of this partnership. It also includes Newmedica experts providing continuing professional development (CPD) for optometrists across its network of eye surgery clinics.

‘Newmedica backs upskilling of optometrists to deliver enhanced optical services – a theme of the week. We are developing a programme of independent prescribing placements for primary care optometrists,’ he adds.

‘The role of Newmedica’s in-house optometrists has also expanded into ophthalmology sub-specialities. Most participate in delivery of cataract, wet AMD and glaucoma services. Optometrists’ core skills means they’re well placed to take on such work in partnership with ophthalmology colleagues.’

Consultant ophthalmologist partners at each of Newmedica’s surgical centres support training and mentoring of optometrists to ensure they have the relevant skill set to deliver high quality patient care across each sub-speciality, says Mr Singh.

Newmedica also sponsors its optometrists to undertake higher qualifications that allow them to play a greater role in the patient journey and undertake complex procedures such as YAG peripheral iridotomy, intravitreal injections and selective laser trabeculoplasty.