| May 2026 |
| Dear Practice, We are pleased to confirm that Primary Eyecare Services have been awarded a contract by the Lancashire & South Cumbria Integrated Care Board (ICB) to deliver the Eye Care Navigation Service (ECNS), replacing the current eERS (OPERA) ophthalmology referral model. Primary Eyecare Services is a not-for-profit primary eye care provider operating at scale, across more than 800 neighbourhoods. By working in partnership with multiple ICB’s across England, the organisation delivers high quality and locally accessible eye care services through collaboration with community optometry practices. The service will launch in two phases: Phase 1: Monday 1st June 2026 for Practices in Blackpool, Fylde & Wyre and Morecambe Bay. Phase 2: Monday 29th June for Practices in West Lancashire, East Lancashire and Preston & Chorley. These services will be available to patients registered with a GP in Lancashire & South Cumbria. Why This Matters: Demand for ophthalmology services continues to rise. ECNS supports the NHS’ Long Term Plan by streamlining referrals, using digital technology and keeping care within the community. It will provide faster access for patients, simpler referrals for clinicians and better use of system capacity overall. Your role as community clinicians is central to making this service a success. Together, we can deliver faster access, better outcomes, and more joined-up eye care across Lancashire and South Cumbria. Service Information Event: A virtual launch and information session will take place on Thursday, 21st May 2026 at 7pm. This session will cover pathways and allow time for questions. To register for this event, please see here – Lancashire & South Cumbria Eye Care Navigation Launch Event. Support: Primary Eyecare Services has a dedicated support team which is on hand to support. The team is available Monday – Friday, 9am – 5pm. If you need help, please email hello@referral.support with ‘Lancs & South Cumbria Support’ in the subject header, and the service team will assist. We very much look forward to working with you and the Local Optical Committee (LOC) over the coming weeks to prepare for the introduction of the Lancashire & South Cumbria service. Kind regards, Primary Eyecare Services |
