Innovation in action

The independent sector continues to invest in innovation to benefit both patients and NHS commissioners – from developments in pathway efficiencies, to simpler estate models and investment in new technology.

Some simple examples include high-flow cataract pathways, one-stop assessment models, digital consent pathways and virtual glaucoma monitoring. Many IHPN members have developed bespoke models that have improved both service efficiency and patient outcomes, and which could in time be rolled out across all NHS eyecare services.

SpaMedica has developed the Ophthalmology Diagnostic and Treatment Centre, a mobile hospital facility which supports the full delivery model of a SpaMedica hospital, including being able to treat 25 patients on a cataract list, bringing access to surgery closer to patients homes.

Optegra, meanwhile, has now rolled out drop-free cataract surgery to all of their hospitals – where a steroid and anti-bacterial injection as part of the surgical procedure negates the need for a several week course of eye drops up to four times a day. Optegra’s reported outcomes show a reduced rate of Cystoid Macular Odema (CMO – 2.9% vs 3.55%) and Interocular Pressure (IOP – 0.52% vs 0.68%) compared with the standard drop regime.

Newmedica has developed a training programme that upskills non-qualified colleagues, enabling them to complete a range of diagnostic tests and complete clinical data gathering as part of the stable glaucoma remote review pathway. The training programme, led by the glaucoma consultant lead and the local service trainer, builds knowledge and confidence through a series of modules, ensuring thorough understanding across anatomy, pharmacology, equipment and ocular conditions. As the trainee completes theory modules, they shadow experienced clinicians to learn practical skills until they are signed off via competency assessments to run stable monitoring clinics autonomously with continuous learning from feedback from the remote review process.

ACES (Anglia Community Eye Services) has invested in developing the future ophthalmic workforce through structured education and career development. Recognising that sustainable elective recovery depends not only on increasing clinical capacity but also on strengthening the workforce, ACES has introduced accredited educational programmes that provide clear progression pathways for clinical staff at every stage of their career.

The organisation delivers a Level 5 Diploma in Ophthalmic Care for Healthcare Assistants, creating a specialist training pathway that equips support staff with the knowledge and practical skills required to work confidently across ophthalmic outpatient, diagnostic and surgical services. This is complemented by a Level 7 Postgraduate Diploma in Cataract and Refractive Surgery, designed for registered healthcare professionals seeking to develop advanced clinical expertise. Together, these programmes help standardise competency, improve recruitment and retention, support professional progression and expand the skilled workforce available to deliver high-quality NHS eye care. By investing in education, ACES is developing the next generation of ophthalmic professionals while ensuring patients continue to benefit from safe, high-quality and sustainable services.