RNIB gathers cataract data

The Royal National Institute of Blind People (RNIB) has called for evidence on cataracts as a result of 'increasing anecdotal evidence' suggesting that some PCTs were introducing policies to restrict access to cataract surgery.

Seeking evidence to establish the extent of the problem with the support of the Royal College of Ophthalmologists, the RNIB is gathering information about policies on cataract surgery currently in place and evidence of what patients actually experience at hospital eye clinics.

It stated that it was gathering the evidence as the result of an increasing number of patients reporting that their cataract operations had been delayed or refused. The RNIB said it wished to hear from eye health professionals if any of their patients had been affected by this issue. Anybody wishing to contact the charity should call 020 7391 2055.