Inquiry called to prevent avoidable sight loss

An inquiry has been called by the All-Party Parliamentary Group (APPG) on Eye Health and Visual Impairment into capacity problems in NHS eye care services and avoidable sight loss in England.

The APPG on Eye Health and Visual Impairment is very concerned about the picture that has emerged of capacity problems in NHS eye care services, as evidence shows many people are unnecessarily losing their sight.

The inquiry has been called to investigate how the situation can be addressed. It is hoped that it will identify the barriers and opportunities in national and local health commissioning and planning, which will ensure that capacity can meet demand for eye health services to prevent avoidable sight loss.

The APPG inquiry is calling for evidence from:

• The Department of Health, NHS England and Public Health England
• commissioners and NHS Eye Departments
• Sustainability and Transformation Partnerships (STPs)
• patients and their families
• health profession bodies, charities, and research and health industry organisations, and
• other areas of health policy to see what lessons can be applied to eye health.

The inquiry is taking evidence from now until the autumn. The evidence will be reviewed to produce a report in early 2018 with a clear set of recommendations, and showcase best practice from eye health and other areas of healthcare.

To find out more about the inquiry visit www.rnib.org.uk/appginquiry