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National UK optometry clinical practice survey: implications for developing glaucoma services in primary care.
Nurfitnat Ellek1, Patrick J G Gunn2,3, Teresa Lewandowski4
1Division of Pharmacy and Optometry, School of Health Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health Sciences, The University of Manchester, Manchester, UK. nurfitnat.ellek@nhs.net.
Eye (London, England)
|December 10, 2025
Summary
UK optometrists are willing to expand glaucoma care services. Many plan further qualifications and enhanced roles, potentially easing pressure on NHS secondary care.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Optometry
- Public Health
Background:
- Glaucoma services face capacity challenges.
- Optometrists play a key role in eye care.
- Assessing optometrists' capacity in glaucoma care is crucial.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate optometrists' current and potential involvement in glaucoma care.
- To assess optometrists' willingness to pursue further qualifications and expanded roles.
- To describe demographics, practice patterns, and diagnostic equipment availability.
Main Methods:
- Survey of 1009 UK optometrists in 2023.
- The Clinical Practice Survey (CPS) was utilized.
- Data collected on practice, qualifications, and equipment.
Main Results:
- 86% of participants were primary care optometrists.
- 33% provided glaucoma repeat measures; 25% offered enhanced case finding.
- 24% planned glaucoma professional development; 15% aimed for professional certificates.
Conclusions:
- UK optometrists show strong willingness to upskill in glaucoma care.
- Expanded roles and qualifications can alleviate pressure on NHS secondary care.
- Optometric involvement can enhance glaucoma service capacity.
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