DRY EYE PATHWAY

1. DRY EYE PATHWAY Any comments /questions to Karen-lynne.dowsing@ipswichandeastsuffolkccg.nhs.uk

2. Quick Update on Ophthalmology Ipswich and East Suffolk Commissioning Group are working in a much more integrated way to produced end to end pathways spanning both primary , intermediate and secondary care. These pathways are worked on in multidisciplinary clinical networks. Cataract Threshold Policy • Research has been undertaken by Public Health to review the Cataract clinical threshold policy (T11).Research has shown that we are on par with other areas with our threshold criteria. Cataract Removal and Lens Replacement Service • The contract arrangements for cataract removal and lens replacement services have come to an end- we will go out to procurement for an all inclusive service that will encourage the “one stop shop approach” which will still rely on the participation of appropriately trained optometrists for referral and post operative checks

3. Re-launch of Green Card • IHT have reinstated the green card for those patients that suffer from iritis. This was reintroduced on their initiative and is still going through the contracting process at the present • Newmedica - follow up glaucoma pathway. Newmedica have served 2 years of their three year contract. They have taken the service on the road, visiting the depths of East Suffolk whilst retaining a static hub in central Ipswich. Please Note: Patients that are under the care of this service cannot be referred directly back into the hospital. If there are any issues please contact john@newmedica.co.uk Referral Refinement • We have just extended our referral refinement contract to bring it in alignment with the national e-refer strategy which is due to be launched at the end of this year

4. Patient to GP with dry eyes Suffolk Primary Eyecare Triage Service Patient sent to an optometrist enhanced service provider(ESP) Treatment by ESP + drops and management plan Hospital if beyond capabilities of ESP Review in one month The DRY EYE PATHWAY

5. The dry eye service will provide: • An appointment in 4 weeks ( current waiting list 12-16 weeks at IHT) • Treatment at a place closer to home • A pathway fully endorsed by IHT • Prescribing of drops fully compliant with “shared care formulary”

6. Up Skilling of optometrist by IHT clinicians • Advice and guidance by IHT if required • Patient will be able purchase relevant drops at cost price • Patients will be given an advice card including recommended medication for those patients who receive free prescriptions ( this can then be taken to the GP)