What is the purpose of the virtual glaucoma clinic?
Due to the increasing demand for routine appointments for patients with glaucoma suspicion/stable glaucoma/ocular hypertension, our consultant-led clinic is facing capacity challenges. To address this, a new virtual clinic has been established at George Eliot Hospital Ophthalmology department for routine appointments, specifically aimed at ensuring timely treatment for low-risk, stable glaucoma patients. The aim is for this clinic to significantly reduce the waiting time for the consultant-led glaucoma clinic. Please note that this new clinic will not impact your treatment or future appointments in the eye clinic, and you will continue to receive the same level of care as you normally would in the consultant-led glaucoma clinic.
What will happen during my visit to the virtual glaucoma clinic?
You will attend the Eye Outpatient Department at George Eliot Hospital, as usual. Qualified staff that currently work in the eye clinic and are skilled in the assessment of patients with glaucoma will run the clinic. Firstly, you will meet our health care assistant or a staff nurse. They will ask you how you are and then ask you: (you may not have all the tests)
· for the details of your drops if you are using any
· to read the eye chart to check your vision
· perform the visual field test
· perform scan to the back of the eye
· check the eye pressure
Secondly, a member of our photography team will take images of your optic nerve. Dilatation of the pupil may be necessary to capture the images of the optic nerve, please make sure you do not drive to your virtual glaucoma assessment.
You should not leave the eye unit unless directed to by a member of staff. Your visit will most likely be shorter than the consultant led glaucoma clinic. The only difference will be that you do not see a doctor or consultant at this appointment.
What happens after your visit to the virtual glaucoma clinic?
The measurements and images taken will be reviewed by the glaucoma team to assess the progression of your condition. You can expect to receive a letter from the glaucoma team a week or two after your appointment, providing you with the results and highlight any modification to the eye drops you use. They will inform you whether you require a follow-up appointment or if you can be referred to your community optometrist. Additionally, any questions or concerns you raised will be addressed in this letter. A copy of this letter will be sent to your GP.
What happens if I am not suitable for the virtual glaucoma clinic?
The virtual glaucoma clinic is appropriate only for patients whose glaucoma is stable. If the consultant determines that your glaucoma is not stable or is getting worse, you will be scheduled for an appointment at the consultant-led glaucoma clinic.
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