Optometry Wales is the professional umbrella organisation for all community optometrists, optometric practices and dispensing opticians across Wales.
There is insufficient capacity in secondary care to assess and manage eye care patients in Wales, so Cardiff academics, Optometrists, and Cardiff & Vale University Health Board staff are evaluating a revolutionary clinical model to facilitate specialised eye care services in community settings.
Skilled Optometrists in community practices will use state-of-the-art imaging technology, dedicated software and electronic patient records to enable diagnosis by acute care ophthalmologists viewing digital data uploaded from remote locations.
This project aims to alleviate unsustainable pressures on current ophthalmology services through digital innovation.
Sali Davis, CEO of Optometry Wales said:
“We could not have done this effectively without Accelerate. We need robust impartial analysis of the effectiveness of the pilot trial. This could lead to the health board allowing all the high street practices in the Cardiff and Vale area to offer this sight saving service. That’s not just good news for patients, it will also improve economic prosperity in Wales."
This project was supported by Accelerate, a now-closed programme led by Life Sciences Hub Wales.
