Optometrists invited to complete survey on low vision services

Royal National Institute of the Blind (RNIB) is addressing disparities in the provision of low vision services across the UK with a new survey that invites feedback on what a high-quality service would look like.

The survey, which takes between 15 and 20 minutes to complete, can be answered online.

Survey respondents are asked to reflect on the Low Vision Services Assessment Framework that was developed in 2010 and suggest ways in which the framework could be improved and updated.

Feedback may include deleting or amending criteria, or adding elements that are currently missing.

A description of the questionnaire online states: “The current provision of low vision services across the UK is patchy. In order to improve the standards of care RNIB would like your help in developing a high-quality framework for low vision support which can be adopted by low vision services nationwide.”

The results from the survey will be used to shape an updated framework for the assessment and commissioning of low vision services.

Optometry and low vision engagement manager, Preeti Singla, emphasised the importance of the standards being set collectively and encouraged anyone working in the sight loss sector to have their say.

“This will enable services to have a benchmark with which to assess the care they are providing. In addition, it will also allow commissioners to understand the need for high quality care and to ensure they are commissioning the best possible service,” she said.