Conclusion

The independent sector – within eyecare and beyond – sees itself as a long-term partner to the NHS, contributing capacity, innovation and workforce support to help meet growing demand. The sector’s role is not peripheral but increasingly embedded within NHS delivery, particularly in high-volume elective services.

The UK has an ageing population, and therefore demand for eyecare services will continue to grow. Developments through the 10 Year Health Plan, and other policy proposals such as mandatory eye tests every three years for people over 70 who wish to continue to hold a driving licence will all see earlier diagnosis of eye conditions which will still require treatment.

No single provider model can solve the capacity challenge alone, however, and IHPN’s view is that a mature health system should ensure that policy makers, commissioners and all providers work together to plan, design and deliver the full range of safe, high-quality care, utilising all available capacity in order to protect people’s sight.