Opticians to treat more eye conditions

Manx Care said the changes would see patients treated at the "right time, by the right clinician"

More services for eye conditions are being offered to patients directly through opticians, Manx Care has confirmed.

Patients had previously had to access tests and treatments for several conditions through appointments with GPs, Noble's Hospital clinics or by referral to private pathways.

The changes also mean people with some eye-related issues can access advice and treatment at community practices rather than through the emergency department.

Manx Care said it would "improves access to services in the most appropriate locations" allowing patients to access the "best and most convenient help" in the right place.

Opticians have traditionally provided only eye tests and supplied glasses funded by the NHS.

Convenience

The new system will see that expanded to include extra eye examinations including paediatric reviews and treatment for a range of other conditions.

It will also allow for follow-up and repeat procedures previously offered at hospital clinics, as well as post-operative cataract examinations and cataract referral advice and counselling.

High street opticians will also be able to cater for unscheduled appointments and urgent care for conditions including the sudden onset of blurred vision, eye pain, eye infections and the gradual loss of vision.

Manx Care said those services that had previously been offered by GPs or at the hospital would remain free of charge.

The changes follow on from a pilot Minor Eye Conditions Service carried out in recent years at Specsavers outlets on the island, offering an alternative to going to a doctor for some eye conditions.

That scheme will now be superseded by the broader roll-out of services across the community by all island opticians.

However, Manx Care said in the case of more serous eye conditions - including severe pain or sudden vision loss – patients should still attend Noble's Hospital's Accident and Emergency Department.