Virtual Glaucoma Clinics

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What is the technician-led glaucoma clinic?

A service where highly-trained operators conduct certain tests to do with your eyes.

Which tests are done?

sight test
eye pressure check
photos and scans of the nerve at the back of the eye
field of vision test.

Who attends this clinic?

Patients with:

possible or known raised eye pressures
possible or known glaucoma.

Will I see a doctor at this clinic?

No, but your hospital notes and all the test results will be reviewed by a member of the glaucoma team during what is called a virtual clinic.

Will I ever see an eye doctor?

We hope that most patients who use this service will not need to see an eye doctor for years.

If you are such a patient, it means that your condition is mild and easy to monitor or easy to treat.聽 This is a good thing.

Will I have drops to dilate my pupils?

Yes, you may need drops to dilate the pupil.

If you do, you cannot drive for several hours afterwards until the effect of the drops wears off.

Why are we introducing this service?

The service helps to reduce cancelled appointments and make the system more efficient.

A consultant sees a maximum of 14 patients in a traditional clinic setting. In a virtual clinic, a consultant can see 30 patients.

Is this just cost-cutting?

No. It is about working smarter, making our resources go further and dealing with an ever-increasing elderly population.

Are there any benefits to this system?

Yes. As you do not have to wait to see the doctor, your visit is much quicker. Patients attending the technician-led service have all their tests done within 1 hour or less.

Is this service safe?

Yes. With glaucoma and its associated conditions, all patients need monitoring. This can be done with these tests and a virtual clinic consultation.

What if my tests look worse?

Then you come back to the eye clinic to see an eye specialist.

So I might need two visits?

Yes, however the vast majority of patients who are seen by the technician will not require a follow-up visit for 6-12 months.

If you do return, this 2nd visit will be relatively quick as no further testing will be needed.

I have questions about my condition and treatment

Please mention this to the technician. If they cannot help, your query will be passed on to the glaucoma team who will answer you by mail or arrange an appointment with a doctor.

What about my test results?

A member of the glaucoma team will write to your GP with the following information:

your sight test result
your diagnosis
your pressure measurement
your treatment plan
your current treatment
your next review date.

This letter will be copied to you.聽

* Please bring your glasses and eye drops to every appointment *

More Information

If you have any queries please contact Mr Humphry鈥檚聽 secretary on 01722 429352.

if you would more information on Virtual clinics please link on this and see all our Patient information聽

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