Please read the below important update about the glaucoma service at East Lancashire Hospitals Trust.
The service is currently under extreme pressure and waiting times for new glaucoma appointments have become much longer than we would want for our patients. We have been actively progressing and implementing a range of measures to increase capacity and improve pathways for the service. This work is ongoing, however it will take time to deliver the level of improvement we want.
As a result, following discussion with our commissioners and colleagues across Lancashire and South Cumbria Integrated Care Board, we have taken the very difficult decision to temporarily close the service to new glaucoma referrals only for an initial period of six months. This decision has been taken as a last resort to allow us to focus on reducing waiting times and improving access for patients already waiting, while we continue to implement these measures and develop a longer-term solution to meet growing demand.
We want to provide clear reassurance that this change applies only to new referrals. We will continue to see, treat and follow up all patients who have already been referred to us or are currently under our care. There will be no change to their ongoing treatment, and their care remains our priority.
During this period, our triage service via OPRA will also remain open and available for advice and guidance. However, any new referrals for suspected glaucoma will need to be directed to an alternative provider.
We will continue to monitor the position closely and will provide an update within the six-month period regarding reopening the service to new referrals.
We appreciate your understanding and ongoing support.
Kind Regards
Alison Marsh
Divisional Director of Operations – SAS
East Lancashire Hospitals NHS Trust
