In 2005 direct referral for cataract surgery from optometrists was just starting to happen, with patients being able to choose a hospital from a list of potential providers. These providers would have contracted with local primary care trusts (PCTs) to provide cataract services at the NHS tariff price. In 2010, true patient choice is still limited via the optometrist direct referral route as optometrists can only refer to providers on their PCT list. If a patient wants to go to a different facility, they can only do so via their GP and with the agreement of the local PCT on a case by case basis. Still, this is a vast improvement for patients who can decide where to have surgery based upon convenience, waiting times and hospital reputation.
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