Locally derived data and patient endorsement are among the recommendations for LOCs in new guidance issued by LOCSU as part of the profession’s response to the NHS Call to Action (CTA).
LOCSU and the Optical Confederation plan to submit a national response, but LOCSU urged LOCs to work with practices and practitioners to ensure the voice of optics was heard on a local level.
It said that local commissioners should be reminded that the piecemeal commissioning of basic community services such as minor eye conditions, glaucoma repeat readings and cataract referral refinement added significantly to NHS transaction costs and was a barrier to service transformation.
The CTA, which aims to improve eye health and reduce sight loss, has sought to engage the public, patients and the professions to review the current system and develop a long term sustainable plan for reform.
LOCSU managing director, Katrina Venerus, said that LOCs should make sure they understand the local priorities for commissioners and tie those in to any response, whether they be the needs of older people, long-term conditions or reducing pressure on A&E or GPs’ appointments.
‘Optometrists and opticians should include data from services in their local or neighbouring areas to demonstrate the value of community eye health services. And they can strengthen the case for developing services with the support of patient groups, local politicians and commissioners who are willing to endorse your CTA responses,’ she added.
A of NHS England-organised series of events where practitioners can learn more about the consultation is currently taking place nationwide.
For further information on the CTA and details of the local engagement events visit www.locsu.co.uk/communications/calltoaction.