Opticians view of future
A move that could see opticians prescribing medicines for patients has been backed by a Cotham Optometrist.

Health minister and Bristol South MP Dawn Primarolo announced the plans for optometrists to train to write out prescriptions on Tuesday.

It will see the specialists who are already trained in all aspects of eye health prescribing medication for eye conditions they would normally refer to GPs or the eye hospital.

Amar Shah who runs an independent practice on Cotham Hill sees the new development as a “fantastic opportunity“.

He believes opticians will be able to deal with health issues quickly because they have the equipment on hand and it will save patients waiting to see their GP, who is not likely to be an expert on eye health.

Optometrists not only prescribe glasses or contact lenses, they are also trained to recognise potentially blinding eye conditions such as macular degeneration and glaucoma and refer them on for medical care. They can also spot conditions such as diabetes.

Guidelines from the College of Optometrists will set out when an optometrist can prescribe medication and qualified practitioners will need to apply for speciality registration with the General Optical Council (GOC). They will only prescribe for conditions of the eye and surrounding tissue and will refer patients to an ophthalmologist where more specialised care is required.

Dawn Primarolo said: “A simple eye test is crucial to keep eyes healthy and, in the most serious cases, can save your sight“.

“Optometrists are trained eye health professionals. Enabling independent prescribing will not only allow them to make better use of their skills, but will also mean greater convenience for patients.“

Mr Shah said: “It will make life for doctors easier because they can refer directly to us and we can prescribe on their behalf and make it easier for the patient.

“Normally you can get to see an optician reasonably quickly and not everyone will need to go down to the eye hospital. It is a great opportunity for independents like myself, who want to offer more to patients. And hopefully it will make for a better relationship with GPs“

The GOC will play a key role in ensuring optometrists who want to become independent prescribers receive training and can practise safely within their competence“.

Rosie Varley, chairman of the GOC, said: “Independent prescribing is a significant development for optometrists, which builds on their existing clinical skills and experience.

“The move reflects high levels of public confidence in optometrist and optical regulation. For patients, it should mean that they get quality care faster, and more conveniently, than ever before“.