Optometrists’ frightening figures ‘no surprise’ to private eye clinics
Association of Optometrists (AOP) data highlights concerns expressed by private providers and their staff who deliver ophthalmology and optometry services.
David Hare, chief executive, Independent Healthcare Providers Network (IHPN), said members recognised the problem all too well.
‘We know that NHS waits are having a significant impact on patients and that many are taking the decision to go private as a result. The AOP’s data re-inforces our own research in that respect.
‘We welcome the acknowledgement by the AOP that the independent sector is a crucial partner in delivering high-quality, prompt services for patients.
‘Ophthalmology is a specialty where an increase in independent sector activity has led to many more patients being seen – particularly in terms of cataract procedures.
‘Some months this year have seen an almost 200% increase in activity compared with 2019, before the pandemic, making it one of the very few specialities where more NHS patients are being seen than before the pandemic.’
He added that optometrists’ expertise and commitment contributed significantly to identifying and addressing eye conditions promptly ‘and we need to do what we can to empower them to deliver’.
