Repeat measurement scheme saves money

Using a primary care repeat measurement scheme to support referral decision-making results in substantial cost savings according to a new study.

Published in the June issue of Ophthalmic and Physiological Optics, the report compared the clinical and financial effectiveness of two optometrist-led enhanced schemes based in the Bexley Care Trust area.

One scheme, the enhanced glaucoma repeat measurement (EGRM) scheme, set criteria for optometrists to undertake repeat full threshold or supra threshold fields (for which they were paid £14), contact applanation tonometry (for a £10 fee) or both (for a £20 fee).

The Hospital Eye Service (HES) equivalent tariffs for the same period of study were £103 for the first visit and £49 for the follow-up visit. The second scheme considered was a refinement by the community team after clinical assessment (RCAS) scheme whereby any repeat assessment was undertaken by a small group of accredited community optometrists.