The NHS in West Lancashire would like to speak to people who have experiences of using eye services (ophthalmology).

NHS West Lancashire Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG), is currently testing the market for ophthalmology services – both in terms of a community service (tier 2 and triage) and for an Age Related Macular Degeneration service – and is welcoming bids from interested providers who would like to deliver this service locally. This is part of a formal procurement process.

Tier 2 ophthalmology is the treatment of eye conditions. The tier 2 means this is a community service for minor treatments only. Examples of the types of treatments offered within a typical tier 2 ophthalmology services include lids/lashes tares, red eye, corneal conditions, foreign bodies, corneal ulcers, contact lense-induced corneal infections and flashes/floaters.

Patients living in West Lancashire with Age Related Macular Degeneration currently have to travel out of the area to receive the treatment they need.

Jackie Moran of NHS West Lancashire CCG, said:

“We know from conversations we have had with our community that they would like care closer to their own homes. This new look service will propose there are more sites delivering this service in West Lancashire meaning they are more accessible for everyone. It is hoped that minor surgery will also be something on offer locally, to reduce travel times for patients”.

The CCG would like to hear from anyone with experiences of eye services, both locally and nearby, to invite them to take part in a patient focus group in September.

Moran continues:

“As with any service improvement, we must hear first-hand from patients that have actual experience of using these services so would like to encourage any local residents to get in touch”.

The CCG can be contacted via myview@westlancashireccg.nhs.uk or 01695 588 000. The date and venue of the focus group is to be confirmed, but it is likely to involve an informal group discussion among local patients that will last approximately between 1-2 hours. If you have experience but do not wish to attend the focus group, the CCG would still welcome the opportunity to hear your views so please get in touch.