Conclusion
The quality of ophthalmic public health data is mixed. The public health indicator on eyes and the certificates of vision impairment (CVI) data on which it is based is a positive measure and should be supported. Where possible, however, the sector should continue to seek improvements to the CVI process to ensure the long term success of the public health indicator on eyes.
Beyond the CVI process and the indicator, there is much work to be done. There are many challenges to improving ophthalmic public health data, including developing IT systems to improve data collection and working with optometrists and other clinicians to ensure they are doing their part to improve the quality of data.
The College will continue to work with others in the eye care sector to support the public health indicator, to improve IT systems and review the data collected, and to further educate our members about how they can contribute to improved ophthalmic public health data. Robust data will help ensure that eye care is patient centred and meets the public’s need, is of good quality, and provides value for money.