We work closely with the local Ophthalmology Departments at Guys & St Thomas’ and Kings College Hospitals.

We are a recognised centre  for extended role services in the community.

Minor Eye Conditions

The minor eye conditions service involves the assessment and treatment of a number of eye conditions in the community under the NHS. You can be referred by your GP or self refer for assessment. The optometrist will perform the assessment and is able to see you for a range of conditions including red eye, sticky eye, watery eye, pain or discomfort in or around the eyes, lumps and bumps and recent onset or sudden increase of flashes of light or floaters.The service aims to improve eye health and provide increased access to eye care nearer to your home. This is a wonderful extension to the hospital eye service in particular the eye casualty.

Glaucoma

The glaucoma referral refinement scheme allows the optometrist to repeat the intraocular pressure test and the visual field test when the initial readings are abnormal. Along with some other assessments, the optometrist is then able to make a more informed decision whether you are suspicious of having glaucoma. If you are in need of referral, the optometrist is able to directly refer you to a local hospital for in depth glaucoma screening without having to see your GP.

Pre Cataract Assessment

Most cataracts occur as part of the normal ageing process.

If your Optometrist informs you that you have a cataract but you can see clearly and they are not causing a problem, there is no need to do any more but have eye examinations at intervals recommended by your optometrist. However if the cataract is causing you visual problems such as difficulties reading or driving then it is possible for you to have cataract surgery. If this is indicated the Optometrist will perform a dilated fundus examination.

The details of the risks and benefits of cataract surgery will be discussed as part of the details of the surgery.

You will have time to discuss any issues or concerns you have and together make an informed decision to have surgery. The optometrist is able to refer you directly to a local hospital of your choice for surgery.

Post Cataract Assessment

We are now completing 4 week follow up assessments after cataract surgery is completed. A report is then sent by us to the surgical team. If required we can arrange for the second eye surgery to be done at this stage.

Age Related Macular Degeneration

Macular degeneration (AMD) affects the ageing population.

There are different types of AMD but only the wet variety can be treated under NICE guidelines. If the Optometrist feels your symptoms or signs are indicative of Wet AMD you will be referred Urgently to the AMD clinic at the local hospitals and treated appropriately. This scheme forms part of the wet AMD direct referral pathway.

Paediatric Screening 

Children are generally screened in reception at school. Those deemed suitable for the community service are referred to a local accredited optician for further detailed tests.