Pandemic Effects

Question 1

College of Optometrists

Answer 1

-Currently under green phase of guidance, social distancing requirements removed along with COVID-19 PPE.

Question 2

UKHSA

Answer 2

-UK Health and Security Agency has still decided to recommend face masking in all health care settings.

Question 3

Effects

Answer 3

-Prevented optometrists from seeing patients in person.
-Many routine appointments were either postponed or cancelled unless urgent eye care was required.

Question 4

Effects on glaucoma care

Answer 4

-Data from NHS and Specsavers shows that the number of referrals from optometry into hospital for glaucoma had reduced by 70% in 2020.

Question 5

Appointments

Answer 5

-Face to face appointments fell by 54%, while tele-appointments increased by 489% in the period between March and August 2020.