Some patients who have undergone cataract surgery without any complications can now have their follow-up review closer to home in a local optometry practice.
The surgical centre will advise patients if they are suitable for this. The patients will choose which practice they attend and will make the appointment themselves, following guidance provided by their surgical centre.
Most optometrists in Northern Ireland provide this service. If their chosen optometrist does not provide it, the patient will be advised of other practices in their area which do provide it.
The optometrist will examine the patient’s eyes to ensure there are no problems following surgery. There is often a change in glasses prescription after cataract surgery and this can be updated at the same appointment. The optometrist will send the details of the examination back to the hospital eye service. If the optometrist finds any complications connected to the surgery, they will arrange for the patient to have a further appointment at the hospital.
This type of review appointment will be paid for by the health service (even if the patient normally pays for sight tests). There may be a charge for additional investigations recommended by the optometrist but this would be discussed with the patient in advance. There will only be help with the cost of new glasses if the patient is normally eligible for this.