Optometrists and ophthalmologists update their joint care vision
Our vision for better integrated eye care services
Professor Leon Davies PhD BSc(Hons) FCOptom Prof Cert Med Ret
President of The College of Optometrists
“With better integration of services, the knowledge, skills and expertise of optometrists and ophthalmologists, and their colleagues, can be most effectively used to provide safe and sustainable patient care. Not only should more services be commissioned within primary eye care, we also need much better digital integration, image sharing and two-way communication between all eye care providers.
“Working with the Royal College of Ophthalmologists to update this joint vision for integration also supports The College of Optometrists’ workforce vision – to recognise and effectively utilise the skills of the whole eye care workforce and improve outcomes for patients and local communities. We are pleased to continue this important collaboration and will work with all partners to achieve this vision.”
Professor Ben Burton
President of The Royal College of Ophthalmologists
“With patient need expanding, it is more crucial now than ever that ophthalmology and optometry are able to work together to provide timely and high-quality care.
“Currently, just 17% of NHS ophthalmology departments report that their services are very well integrated with optometry, and a lack of shared electronic patient record systems and interoperable imaging standards are preventing more joined up pathways.
“So, we are pleased to launch our and the College of Optometrists’ updated joint vision for safe and sustainable eye care services fit for the future. We look forward to working with commissioners and clinicians to make this vision a reality.”