Repeat IOP Scheme Sutton & Merton

This scheme is designed to reduce the number of referrals to the Hospital Eye Service of patients with IOP>21mmHg with non-contact tonometer with no other signs of glaucoma (i.e. the optic discs, visual fields and the angles of anterior chambers are all normal).

The scheme is for NHS or private patients aged 18 and over with a GP in Sutton or Merton attending an optical practice in Sutton or Merton respectively. If the IOP is >21mmHg and < 28mmHg with non-contact tonometer with no other signs of glaucoma (i.e. the optic discs, visual fields and the angles of anterior chambers are all normal) then the patient will be offered to have the IOP checked again using an applanation tonometer (either Perkins or Goldman tonometer). The Clinical Commissioning Group will pay a fee to the practice for each of the IOP readings using the applanation tonometer.

If the IOP is <21mmHg using the applanation tonometer then the patient will be discharged for normal follow up.

If the IOP is >21mmHg using the applanation tonometer then the patient will be asked to attend the practice for a second applanation tonometry on another day but within seven days.

If the IOP is>21mmHg using the applanation tonometer on another day, the patient will be be referred directly to the Hospital Eye Service.

The scheme uses software that manages the patients’ details, does all the referral forms electronically, transmits the referrals to the Hospital Eye Service and forwards a copy to the patient's GP.

In order to join the Sutton Repeat IOP scheme the following should be completed:

1. The optometrist(s) in the practice has to be accredited by the clinical lead (Eyall Gelbart).

2. The optometrist(s) in the practice has to complete a free CET accredited glaucoma distance learning module.

3. The optical practice should complete the clinical governance checklists for NHS contract as well as an infection control audit. Further details can be found at www.qualityinoptometry.co.uk. Some of the checklists will be required to be audited during a practice visit.

4. The contractor of the optical practice will need to sign a sub-contract with the LOC Company.

The Merton repeat IOP scheme contract will expire on 31.03.2015 and will not be renewed or extended.