NHS Hampshire to cut enhanced eye care services

The College of Optometrists has urged NHS Hampshire and Isle of Wight to reconsider its decision to end enhanced primary eye care services for glaucoma and cataract patients on March 31.

Dr Gillian Rudduck, president of The College of Optometrists, commented: ‘While the NHS Hampshire and Isle of Wight ICB say they have taken this decision in the context of ongoing financial constraints, it goes against NHS England’s new 10-year plan to shift care from hospitals to the community. Using optometrists to provide enhanced services ensures that patients can receive the right care they need quicker, freeing up hospital eye services to treat patients in need of more complex or urgent care.’