How would you manage a patient you had referred who said they had not been seen?
In each issue, Acuity poses a topical question to a panel of members.
David Elks MCOptom
Ophthalmic optician, David Elks Opticians, Derbyshire
I would check the referral had been received and re-refer if required. But in some cases post-COVID, delays have meant the patient cannot have the treatment at all because of ill health, while in others there is a long wait for treatment. In such circumstances, the latest prescription may need to be reissued, as long as the patient appreciates it may need to be changed post-treatment. A good reading light and text in a larger font is a good temporary solution if new spectacles are not prescribed. If treatment is not possible, stronger reading additions utilising a shorter working distance and good lighting can help patients on a more permanent basis.
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