29/08/05 - Review of general ophthalmic services

The review will look at making best use of general ophthalmic services to increase patient choice and improve access to optical services. The Minister of State for Health Services, Rosie Winterton said, "The review will consider how NHS ophthalmic services can build on current arrangements to improve service to patients. By allowing primary care trusts to contract optical services from a wider range of providers, patients will benefit from greater access to optical primary care services." The Department of Health aims to complete the review early in 2006.  Views will be sought from stakeholders including patient groups, the NHS and representatives of independent contractors to inform consideration of the issues. (DH - press release)