Pre-Cataract Service

Overview

Utilise the skills of primary care optometrists to confirm the presence of cataract, counsel the patient on the process and allow them time to reflect and ask questions.

Utilise shared decision making, and where appropriate, referring the patient to  their preferred choice of cataract surgery provider.

Ensuring the patient meets the local cataract surgery policy.

Collecting consistent quality clinical outcome data for audit purposes and  improved patient outcomes.

Service Information

Accreditation
WOPEC Online Cataract Module

Service Specifications

• A self-assessment health questionnaire will be completed to establish  suitability for surgery by highlighting other health problems and possible  contra-indications
• Discuss the risks and benefits of the cataract extraction as well as providing  the patient with a choice of treatment centres – see new patient choice tool

Pupil Dilation
To exclude other causes of vision loss. Please check with your local Clinical  Lead on whether this is required on all patients or if based on clinical  judgement.

Patients That Are Not Suitable For The Service 

• Those who do not wish to be referred for surgery
• Those who wish to be referred to a private provider for surgery (refer  directly or via GP)
• Those who are already under the care of an NHS Trust ophthalmology for  another active ocular condition (e.g. Glaucoma) – a letter to the consultant  explaining the patient’s current visual difficulties is appropriate here

Help and Support

Contact your local Clinical Lead or through the Blue Bubble button or email hello@referral.support