Course: Advances in Eyecare: Referrals 2, Section: Learning objectives

General

No CPD Points

Since our first ‘referrals special’ in 2015 the situation across the UK has changed significantly.

There have been changes to guidelines, including the revised NICE guidelines concerning the referral of cataracts, AMD and glaucoma. Some of the policy changes we heard about in our previous referrals special have taken root as regional variations become more established. And, fundamentally, attitudes towards eye health care and management in practice are changing.

This updated resource will look at some new referral processes, hear from experts in primary care management, and the overall aim is to examine the different ways of improving referral pathways, to optimise the use of optometric expertise and resources, to streamline the process and reduce the number of unnecessary referrals whilst maintaining the highest standards of care to our patients.

Last published: December 2020

Learning objectives

1.2.1 Be able to explain findings and the nature of any referral in a way that will maximise compliance and subsequent effectiveness of management.

2.7.2 Understand the need for follow up assessment in certain circumstances.

2.8.1 Understand the significance of accuracy when recording a referral decision.

2.10.1 Understand the appropriate local and national protocols for care and referral of specific conditions including cataract and glaucoma (including the latest revisions to NICE guidance).

2.10.3 Understand the different layers of referrals including where referral is to a colleague with further training as part of a refinement scheme.

6.1.6 Understand the importance of knowing local and national guidance regarding appropriate referral of cataract.

6.1.8 Understand the importance of knowing local and national guidance regarding appropriate referral of suspect glaucoma.

7.1.1 Understand the nature of local care and referral pathways with an emphasis on glaucoma and cataract but also be cognisant of other local variations throughout the regions of the UK.