Breakthrough ends 60-year absence

Inclusion within the government's new Public Health Outcomes Framework has ended more than half a decade in the shadows for public eye health.

Anita Lightstone, director of UK Vision Strategy, said it was a landmark decision for the profession to be included in the 2013-2016 framework.

She added: 'It is the first time since the inauguration of the NHS, over 60 years ago, that the importance of eye health and sight loss have been recognised by the government.

'This is a significant step forward in protecting the nation's eye health and demonstrates the power of partnership working through the UK Vision Strategy which enabled this major breakthrough to happen.'