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NHS sight tests include unevaluated screening examinations that lead to waste

BMJ 2014; 348 doi: https://doi.org/10.1136/bmj.g2084 (Published 19 March 2014) Cite this as: BMJ 2014;348:g2084

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Re: NHS sight tests include unevaluated screening examinations that lead to waste

The privatisation of the Ophthalmological services in now inevitable, certainly in Wales several hospitals will be reduced to procedure carrying outposts with most ophthalmic care being provided in the settings of high street optometry.

The senior and influential Ophthalmologists have signed up to this enthusiastically by promoting various pathways devised via FOO (focus on ophthalmology) programme that in fact has resulted in fragmentation of ophthalmology, and devalues Eye Units in DGHs.

What is most worrying is that the present day trainee in ophthalmology is not getting adequate opportunities to diagnose and treat various eye conditions. Either opticians manage conditions themselves or refer to Consultants, thus bypassing junior trainees.

It is not inconceivable that the next generation of Ophthalmologists will be seeking expert opinion from the high street opticians.

Such is the nature of change!

Competing interests: No competing interests

16 April 2014
Nikhil C Kaushik
Consultant Ophthalmologist
BCUHB, Wrexham Maelor Hospital
Croesnewydd Road, Wrexham LL13 7TD