UK report calls for standardized collection of quality optical data

London-The College of Optometrists published a new report calling for more efficient collection of quality data about patients’ eye health in an effort to improve local eye health services and reduce costs and delays.

David Parkins, vice president of the College of Optometrists and chairman of the data project steering group, said: “Optometrists examine the eyes not only to detect defects in vision, but also to identify signs of injury, ocular diseases or abnormality, and problems with general health, such as diabetes. By taking responsibility for recording all this information and sharing data, optometrists will have the tools necessary to convince commissioners that commissioning from optometrists is good value for money.”

The report recommends that standardized electronic and digital systems therefore need to be put in place to bring consistency to data capture and measurement.

“Good quality information is central to providing good quality, patient-centered eyecare. Having more detailed information at your fingertips will help health professionals to better meet the eye health needs of local communities, and ultimately save time and resources,” Parkins said. “An improved electronic system for referrals would reduce the cost burden of eye care to the NHS, helping to eliminate unnecessary referral appointments in addition to duplicated tests.”