Formal Co-Management Schemes

Currently in the uk there are around

• >65 diabetic schemes
• >35 cataract
• >20 glaucoma/ocular hypertension
• 13 low vision
• 10 referral/prioritisation

There are also some broad schemes like the one on the south side of Glasgow.

The Crown Report of 1999 recommended optoms as independent prescribers. The govt decided that supplemental prescriber status would come first. The New Prescribing Advisory Commitees drafted the legislation for that stuff in 2000, including a drug list, specific training and associated ongoing CET.

The New(est) Optom Legislation

• In 2005 the prescribage became no longer confined to 'in an emergency'. Also the drug list was updated
• Section 60 Order: student registration is now required, new registration for misconduct, new requirement for malpractice insurance, CL supplies regulated, optometric specialities defined, CET requirement
• Supplementary Prescriber - this involves a voluntary association with an independent prescriber (w/medical qual) managing cases according to set management plans
• Independent Prescriber - establishes diagnosis, directs clinical management and is responsible for prescribing

The NHS goals for co-management are as follows:

• Shorter waiting lists, greater px accessibility and more efficient use of the hospital eye services and the consultants

The benefits to optometry are thisssss

• Px continuity and advancement of the profession mainly - more variety, interest
• Increased REP
• Income to a certain (small) extent