Glaucoma pilot begins in Wales

New ways to treat glaucoma patients are being piloted in Wales in two six-month £180,000 ophthalmic diagnostic treatment schemes.

The scheme was announced by Welsh health minster Edwina Hart to evaluate the feasibility of diagnosing and monitoring glaucoma by optometrists working in the community, supported by hospital consultants. It is hoped that if successful the scheme could be rolled out across Wales.

According to the Welsh Assembly, a GP practice in Vale of Glamorgan and optometrists in Carmarthenshire have been chosen for the trials which will be funded by the Assembly.

Hart said of the scheme: 'It is important that patients receive swift access to diagnosis to determine the best course of treatment. Initially, the pilot will provide the mechanism for patients with stable glaucoma or ocular hypertension to be followed up in the community, close to home. This will avoid unnecessary hospital outpatient visits.'