Ophthalmology
Statistical Publication Notice
26 June 2007
General Ophthalmic Services
INTRODUCTION
This release provides data on:
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NHS eye examinations for financial year ending 31 March 2007
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NHS voucher claims for financial year ending 31 March 2007
New information is provided on referrals and on reasons for primary and supplementary NHS eye examinations respectively.
Trend data on NHS eye examinations and voucher claims are available for financial years ending 31 March 1999-2007.
KEY FINDINGS
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Following the introduction of free NHS eye examinations in Scotland on 1st April 2006 the number of NHS eye examinations during the year to 31st March 2007 was 1,573,103; this compares with 959,849 during the year to 31st March 2006, an increase of 64%.
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3.6% of all patients who had an NHS eye examination were then referred to their GP or for hospital treatment. 96.1% of patients were not referred for further care.
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38.1% of all supplementary NHS eye examinations were for further checks of side vision and pressure in the eye.
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442,944 NHS vouchers (pairs of spectacles for which vouchers were redeemed, including complex appliance payments) were reimbursed by NHS Boards. This was a 3.1% decrease on the previous year.
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The number of supplementary tints supplied (10,847) decreased by 9.9% on the previous year.
INTERPRETATION
On 1st April 2006, a new NHS eye examination was introduced and free NHS eye examinations were extended to all in Scotland. The traditional NHS sight test has been replaced by a comprehensive eye examination appropriate to the patient's needs. An initial eye examination is carried out (primary eye examination) and where necessary a second eye examination (supplementary eye examination).
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MAIN CONTACTS:
Dental & Ophthalmic team manager
Tel: 0131 275 6316
Email: Stephen.goold@isd.csa.scot.nhs.uk
PRE-RELEASE ACCESS TO THIS PUBLICATION WAS GIVEN TO:
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HISTORY OF THIS PUBLICATION:
Last Published: June 2006
Next Due: July 2008
Data Available Since: NHS eye examinations and voucher claims data are available for financial years ending 31 March 1999-2007.
Denise Hastie
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