Vital Call to Action to address eye care system

A debate on the provision of optical services has commenced after NHS England officially launched its Call to Action for eye health.

The engagement process has called upon both professionals and patients to review the current system of care for eye conditions. It follows other such calls to action by the NHS looking into general practice, community pharmacy and NHS dental services.

NHS England’s deputy medical director Dr Mike Bewick officially launched the consultation for eye health, which will run until September 12, during last week’s Vision UK 2014 conference in London.

He said: ‘Preventing eye disease and promoting early detection of eye disease through improved access and uptake for routine eye tests are key components of this Call to Action. Ensuring that patients receive the most appropriate care at the most appropriate time and in the most appropriate location is also vital.’