Sefton is one of Only three areas in England  to Pilot Optometry First

The Optometry First Model has been developed by the Optical Sector Bodies (ABDO, FODO, LOCSU, College of Optometrists) working with NHS England.

Primary eye care has long been able to deliver a wide range of NHS care outside hospitals, including diagnosis, treatment, follow-up to surgery, and the co-management of long-term conditions.  Optometry First is part of the solution and Sefton is an early adopter.

Optometry First is a comprehensive end to end service redesign building on the principles of collaboration demonstrated with the CUES rollout. It improves on accuracy and efficient case finding, extends scope of care available within primary care as well as allowing opportunities for self-care and improving patient experience. The service is based on core competencies of optometrists, dispensing opticians and their practice team, supported by higher qualified primary care practitioners and the multidisciplinary hospital ophthalmology team, where necessary, across a network of local optometric practices and the hospital eye service.

4 Main Areas for initial focus

Cataract –Pre and Post Care

Glaucoma – Enhanced Case Finding and Glaucoma Monitoring

Medical Retina

CUES / MECS

We are all aware of the pressures on secondary care capacity. These existed prior to COVID but have been exacerbated during the pandemic. Avoiding unnecessary sight loss, delivering care closer to home, reducing waiting list times and developing a sustainable framework for eyecare moving forwards are all service objectives.

The service will ensure that primary care practitioners can offer first contact care through to resolution, whilst also providing continuity of care for people with a long-term condition closer to home.