Government Proposes Eye Specialists Able to Prescribe
New government proposals could enable eye specialists in Britain to prescribe patients with relevant medication directly. While a certain percentage of the 10,000 optometrists in England are currently able to write prescriptions for eye-related drugs, these prescriptions need to be counter-signed by GPs. However, should the government's plan be brought into action, additional training would be provided to enable optometrists to write prescriptions for the likes of conjunctivitis and dry eye syndrome.
Among government ministers, the reaction to this news was generally a positive one, as the benefits for the patient were highlighted. Within the medical community, however, doctors were quick to urge that thorough monitoring of the scheme would be mandatory. The government proposal follows the powers of prescription granted to nurses in 2006 - a decision that has recently taken some flak, as covered in a previous Pharmaceutical International News Item.
A Department of Health spokeswoman stated that, in cases of, for example, diabetes, where the effects extend beyond merely the eye, optometrists would continue referring the patient to his/her doctor.
A number of responses to the proposed measure have already emanated from those in government and the medical sector. Highlighting the virtues of the plan, Dawn Primarolo, the Health Minister, stated: "Enabling independent prescribing will not only allow them to make better use of their skills, but will also mean greater convenience for patients."
Ms Primarolo's comments were echoed by the General Optical Council's Chairman, Rosie Varley, who added: "The move reflects high levels of public confidence in optometrists and optical regulation. For patients, it should mean that they get quality care faster and more conveniently than ever before."
Finally, the British Medical Association's Ophthalmic Group Committee's Chairman, Rhod Daniel, agreed with the positivity exhibited elsewhere, but stressed the need for regulation also. "Optometry prescribing will need to be properly monitored as the safety of the patient must always take precedence over convenience and economics", he said.
Source - Pharmaceutical International's Health Reporter
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