Investigation into lack of timely monitoring of patients with glaucoma

Investigation into lack of timely monitoring of patients with glaucoma Lack of timely follow-up for glaucoma patients is a recognised national issue across the NHS. Research suggests that around 22 patients a month suffer severe or permanent sight loss as a result of the delays.

Our latest report comes after we looked at the case of a 34-year old woman who lost sight as a result of delayed follow-up appointments. She saw seven different ophthalmologists, and the time between her initial referral to hospital eye services and laser eye surgery was 11 months. By this time her sight had deteriorated so badly, she was registered as severely sight impaired.

We’ve made seven safety recommendations as a result of this investigation. Healthcare Safety Investigation Branch

See also:

• Patients are going blind because of long NHS delays, investigators warn The Daily Telegraph
• Glaucoma patients going blind due to treatment delays, watchdog finds The Guardian