In Focus: Patients reminded about importance of eye health

Backlogs exacerbated by the pandemic have increased the importance of raising awareness of eye health, said organisers of National Eye Health Week (NEHW).

David Cartwright, chair of Eye Health UK, told Optician the optical profession needed to come together to remind people why vision matters.

‘Undoubtedly, the pandemic has made eye health issues worse. I think there’s no question about that,’ he said.

Cartwright highlighted fewer patients had attended sight tests, which had created a delay to being diagnosed with conditions like glaucoma. For patients who already live with glaucoma, appointments have not happened, which has contributed to a difficult situation.

He added that a key message of NEHW this year was to attend regular appointments at an optical practice and if patients notice any changes, they should book an appointment immediately.