Direct optometrist referral of cataract patients into a pilot 'one-stop' cataract surgery facility.
OBJECTIVE
To determine the feasibility of a) direct optometrist referral of patients with cataract, and b) combined assessment with same day cataract surgery ('one stop' cataract surgery).


METHODS
Evaluation of 169 patients referred directly by optometrists into a pilot 'one stop' cataract surgery facility.


RESULTS
Of 169 referrals, 160 patients (94.7%) were given confirmed appointments for the 'one stop' cataract service and 9 patients (5.3%) were appointed conventionally. Of 160 patients attending the 'one stop' cataract service, 154 patients (96.3%) underwent cataract surgery at the same visit, in 4 patients (2.5%) cataract surgery was indicated but deferred and in 2 patients (1.3%) cataract surgery was not indicated. The referral was supplemented with information regarding the patient's medical history forwarded by the general practitioner for 3 patients (1.8%). There were no systemic or sight-threatening complications. 151 patients (98.1%) achieved a visual acuity of 6/12 or better at a mean of 31 days post-operatively.


CONCLUSIONS
Optometrists can accurately predict the need for cataract surgery and refer directly into a pilot 'one stop' cataract surgery facility, without the need for general practitioner involvement. 'One stop' cataract surgery is feasible; benefits to the patient include the abolition of the need to visit the general practitioner for consultation and referral, and the hospital for pre-assessment.
Gaskell
A
A
Department of Ophthalmology, Ayr Hospital, Dalmellington Road, Ayr KA6 6DX, UK. alan.gaskell@aaaht.scot.nhs.uk
McLaughlin
A
A
Young
E
E
McCristal
K
K
D000556:Ambulatory Surgical Procedures; D002386:Cataract / Q000175:diagnosis; D002387:Cataract Extraction; D006801:Humans; D009907:Optometry; D010865:Pilot Projects; D012017:Referral and Consultation; D013997:Time Factors; D006113:United Kingdom