College seeks data revamp

More efficient collection of good quality data relating to patients' eye health without the use of paper has been targeted by a report published by The College of Optometrists.

The report follows Health Minister Jeremy Hunt's calls for a 'paperless NHS' by 2015.

Better data collection improved communication between optometry practices, GPs, hospitals and local health authorities, it stressed.

David Parkins, vice president of the College and chair of the data project steering group, said: 'Optometrists examine the eyes not only to detect defects in vision, but also to identify signs of injury, ocular diseases or abnormality and problems with general health, such as diabetes. The report emphasises that by taking responsibility for recording all this information and sharing data, optometrists will have the tools necessary to convince commissioners that commissioning from optometrists is good value for money.'