The eye care support pathway
The #EyeCareSupportPathway is a framework, developed by RNIB and partners across the sector, for the NHS, social care organisations, the third sector and the public to use to support the transformation of eye care and eye services.
The framework, which is detailed in a joint report published this November (2023), sets out why we need to integrate non-clinical support into existing eye care pathways. The report shows what people require at every stage of their eye care journey. Both the report and framework have been co-produced with people with lived experience of sight loss, eye specialists, organisations in the third sector, the NHS and social care.
Our shared ambition for the pathway is that from the moment someone realises that “something isn’t quite right” with their sight, through to diagnosis and being able to live confidently – and independently – with their condition, people have access to the information, and support they need.
The pathway
There are four stages to the eye care support pathway;
- Having my initial appointment
- Having my diagnosis confirmed
- Support after my diagnosis
- Living well with my condition
Between each stage are periods of waiting. Alongside these stages are three themes which apply right across the eye care support pathway. These are;
- Understand my eye care journey
- Understand my diagnosis
- Access to emotional and practical support
Using the pathway framework, people’s support requirements alongside existing good practice have been mapped out for each stage of the pathway.
How to learn more and get involved
Future work will focus on implementation of the Eye care support pathway and promotion and distribution of the report. Look at the RNIB website and in national and regional forums across the UK for updates.
If you have sight loss or an eye condition and would like information, advice and support, please contact RNIB on our Helpline 0303 123 9999 or email [email protected].
For further information and discussions about the implementation of the UK pathway and the report, please contact [email protected] or [email protected]
For country specific discussions please contact RNIB’s Country Directors or NHS Engagement Managers:
- England: [email protected] or [email protected]
- Wales: [email protected] or [email protected]
- Scotland: [email protected] or [email protected] or [email protected]
- Northern Ireland: [email protected] or [email protected]