Locsu has welcomed a new framework to improve the system for the acquisition of primary eye care service contracts.
The framework was published last week by the Clinical Council for Eye Health Commissioning.
An expanded Locsu commissioning team called on CCGs to implement the system of accredited national eye care pathways proposed in the framework report.
Locsu said working within the framework will facilitate ‘a more co-ordinated and multi-professional approach to tackle both urgent and routine activity.’
Assistant director of commissioning, Richard Whittington, added: ‘The current piecemeal approach isn’t working, we urge all CCGs to fully implement the recommendations of the report. For services to have the maximum impact and cost-effectiveness, CCGs need to work together at a population level and across CCG and care tier boundaries if we truly want an integrated service.
‘Current pressures require a radical response and the introduction of a minor eye conditions service (MECS) and more routine step-down care will make a significant difference to demand and capacity.’