Glaucoma Case Studies show positive results

3 July 2020

 

Glaucoma is a fairly common, potentially sight threatening condition and whilst glaucoma cannot be prevented, early intervention can reduce the risk of sight loss. Eye health specialists recommend that all adults over the age of 40 should have a regular sight test, to include a measure of intraocular pressure (IOP).

As part of Glaucoma Awareness Week, LOCSU is pleased to publish two case studies outlining the positive results delivered by two sets of activity relating to the measurement of intraocular pressure (IOP) in optical practice.

The first case study, ‘Explore the impact of the NICE glaucoma guidelines on referral activity’, considers the changes introduced in primary care in response to the NICE Guideline NG 81 which took effect in November 2017, which increased the referral threshold for IOP to 24mmHg or more.

The second, entitled ‘Glaucoma Repeat Readings – how many repeats are needed?’ reviews the inclusion of a second IOP repeat in the Glaucoma Repeat Readings Service and its impact on reducing false positive referral rates.

Both case studies demonstrate the positive effect of primary care Glaucoma services on reducing referral rates to hospital eye services. LOCSU’s view is that Glaucoma referral filtering delivered in primary care should be commissioned at scale, to help support the ophthalmology outpatient transformation programme deliver their aims to safely reduce outpatient activity and deliver more timely care.

Click for more information on the LOCSU Glaucoma Referral Filtering and Monitoring Pathway.

For further information contact us via info@locsu.co.uk