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A new alliance of eye care professionals and patient groups has been created to champion the cause of people with macular degeneration.

Hosted by Vision 2020, the group was the initiative of the Macular Disease Society (MDS), the biggest patient group in the visual impairment sector. Its remit is 'to bring knowledge, help and hope to individuals in the UK who are affected by MD'.

Cathy Yelf, head of external relations for the MDS, explained: 'The group will work across disciplines and across patient areas and is a point at which we can contact senior engaged people in a cross-professional way. The intention is that we begin to pool our resources and thinking to ensure that patients with macular disease get the best possible care.'

Members include the Royal College of Ophthalmologists, the Association of Optometrists, the College of Optometrists, the RCN and the ADASS. Charities and patient groups include Action for Blind People, Guide Dogs, the RNIB, St Dunstan's, and Help the Aged.

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