The LOC would like to appeal to practices in the Blackpool and Fylde & Wyre areas to consider participating in the Easy Eyecare Service. The service has been running successfully for over 2 years however we currently have a gap in service for this area.
This is a clinical pathway developed to increase accessibility to sight & eye healthcare for people with learning disabilities and/or autism. The volume of patients is very small with some already seen for GOS sight tests.
What is required to become an Easy Eyecare provider?
- Sign up as a PES sub-contractor for enhanced services (same as CUES, etc.)
- Optometrists to complete WOPEC Learning Disability training – online only, 6 CPD points & free of charge
- Recommended but not essential – DOs & optical assistants to complete non-clinical modules of the WOPEC training
- Ensure staff understand the pathway & are empowered to book appointments
What is required to provide the service?
- Book an Easy Eyecare episode on Opera & share a pre-appointment questionnaire with the patient/parent/carer
- Make reasonable adjustments as required by the GOS contract to meet the patients needs e.g. longer testing time
- Complete the episode on Opera to generate an outcome report for the patient & carers
Invoicing & payment is automated with an enhanced fee of £60 for each episode. Episodes are also eligible for GOS & post-cataract fees where applicable
All our currently participating practitioners confirm that the small amount of additional work required is fulfilling & worthwhile for themselves, their practices & their community.
We need practice participation to secure future funding to ensure this service is available to everyone who needs it.
Thank you for reading – please contact edward.ovenden@lmbloc.co.uk if you have any questions, jennifer.smith@lmbloc.co.uk for WOPEC codes and please sign up!
Click this link to see the patient-facing page on the PES website, including a short video: https://primaryeyecare.co.uk/your-area/lancashire-and-south-cumbria-easy-eye-care-services/
