Statement on NHS long-term plan

Helen Lee, Eye Health Policy Manager at RNIB, said:

“The NHS long-term plan is welcome, particularly the focus on prevention and the use of new technology. Although there is a clear intention to address the rising demand for health services across the board, RNIB is not convinced there is sufficient focus on eye health to address serious issues such as a worrying lack of capacity in eye clinics.

“Timely treatment for eye conditions is critical when it comes to preventing avoidable sight loss, and we would urge NHS England to ensure its delivery plans have a serious focus on the current issues affecting eye health.”

Notes to editors

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About RNIB

We are the Royal National Institute of Blind People (RNIB).

Every six minutes, someone in the UK begins to lose their sight. RNIB is taking a stand against exclusion, inequality and isolation to create a world without barriers where people with sight loss can lead full lives. A different world where society values blind and partially sighted people not for the disabilities they’ve overcome, but for the people they are.

RNIB. See differently.

Call the RNIB Helpline on 0303 123 9999 or visit www.rnib.org.uk