Researchers for this study conducted in Wales evaluated the integration of optometrists into primary care for managing neovascular age-related macular degeneration (nAMD) and glaucoma. They identified significant benefits to this integration, including reduced waiting times, improved efficiency in hospital eye services, and comparable patient experiences in primary care settings. The findings align with policy shifts that favor decentralized eye care services and suggest integrating optometrists into primary care settings as a viable strategy for improving efficiency and patient outcomes. The researchers identified key factors that influence the success of these models, including the essential roles of a referral coordinator, trust and collaboration between optometrists and ophthalmologists, clear communication, patient involvement, and the growing number of optometrists who are completing higher-level training to support the expanded role.

Source: Ophthalmic and Physiologic Optics