PCT launches low vision care pathway

One of the handful of Department of Health 'pathway' pilot schemes, aimed at delivering new ways to treat chronic eye disease, has opened in the north east.

Gateshead PCT's low vision centre at Bensham hospital opened this month and is expected to cater for thousands of partially sighted patients.

Last year the PCT provided a free two-day training session to local optometrists on the low vision pilot scheme, and four practitioners chose to participate in the scheme.

There are currently four half-day clinics a week, although project organiser Pam Turpin told optician she aims to extend this to six half days.

All local optometrists are encouraged to refer patients with low vision problems to the headquarters where assessment and advice is provided.

Patients can discuss their challenges and goals with a rehabilitation specialist, and receive a low vision assessment from an optometrist.

'Patients have access to all services at one centre,' said Turpin. 'This includes books and equipment, so they don't have to wait for low vision resources. We hope the centre will improve their quality of life, and make them feel less isolated and more independent.'

Gateshead is one of eight chronic eye disease pilot sites established by health minister Rosie Winterton a year ago as part of a £4m
programme. The initiative followed the work of the National Eye Care Steering Group, which was made up of DoH representatives and members of the profession.