Optical groups collaborate on sector resource planning tool

A consortium of optical associations, led by the College of Optometrists, have collaborated to create a data tool allowing eye care and service planners to forecast future workforces. 

The UK Eye Care Data Hub is an online tool that can model more than 40 eye conditions and calculate the eye care workforce, spanning both primary and secondary eye care services, to provide an overview by UK region of the next 15 years. This will empower employers' decision-making about recruitment planning and investment in higher qualifications and training, supported by the tool’s knowledge of prevalence of different eye diseases.