Joined-up services are crucial to a successful eye care system, and professionals from all optical sectors need to be involved, according to Ivan Lewis, parliamentary under-secretary of state for care services.
Speaking at the official launch of the UK Vision Strategy consultation, Lewis said eye care services would only be improved if all stakeholders were involved in the process. And significant improvements were necessary if the services were to meet future challenges.
'People now have very different aspirations and expectations when it comes to healthcare services. Today people expect customised and convenient services,' he said. 'We must also consider that people are living longer - we will need radical changes if we are going to meet the demographic challenges.'
The UK Vision Strategy, he said, had been successful in bringing together all key stakeholders and outlining a framework for action. The strategy aims to improve the eye health of the nation, prevent vision loss, improve services and support those with impaired vision. All major statutory, regulatory and voluntary bodies have been involved in the strategy, which is now out for consultation until January 17.