Safety has been the top priority for optical practices during the Covid-19 pandemic with infection control measures undertaken, according to a survey by the Hakim Group.
Social distancing measures have meant optical practitioners have used remote triaging tools (93.2%) and video and image consultations (43.8%) to provide eye care.
Phone calls (92.99) have been the most popular method of contacting patients, with emails (83.54%), social media (70.4%) and text messages (61.47%) also used.
Safety was the top priority for practices with measures taken such as sanitising equipment (79.2%), infection control (75.8%) and protective furnishings (38.1%).
Of those surveyed, 82.66% of practices have remained open with a restricted service, with home delivery among services offered by 92.47%, and 17.34% have completely closed during the pandemic.