A pilot glaucoma service has been trialled at Specsavers in Merthyr Tydfil to make it easier and more convenient for NHS glaucoma patients to be monitored.
Cwm Taf Morgannwg University Health Board said the primary care-based assessment service was the first of its kind in the UK.
Andrew Feyi-Waboso, project lead and locum ophthalmic consultant, said: ‘The feedback from patients is very positive. The service uses the capacity and skills of local optometrists in the community to relieve the burden on secondary care, with modern electronic sharing of patient information with secondary care providing them with seamless, timely, high quality eye care.’
Results from patient assessments at Specsavers were shared with the health board’s consultant-led ophthalmology service for review in real time. If any deterioration was identified a referral was made and if not, the patient continued to be regularly reviewed locally.
Another pilot service would be rolled out at Davies & Jones Optometrists in Porth and Talbot Green as well as at Mountain Ash Optical Centre over the next two months.
It was estimated that around 4,000 glaucoma patients in the Cwm Taf Morgannwg area would be assessed in the community. If successful, the service would be extended after March, 2022.