Consultation by: Department of Health and Social Care
Healthwatch Birmingham and Solihull responded to this online survey on proposals to extend the range of medicines optometrists and contact lens opticians can supply.
Our response highlighted the following points:
• We supported many of the proposals, recognising the potential benefits for access to care in community settings.
• We emphasised the need for clear guidelines for patients who cannot be treated in the community, to ensure they can access appropriate alternative care and that inequalities are not widened.
• We raised concerns that the cost of certain medicines could act as a barrier for people on low incomes or those living in areas of deprivation.
• We highlighted the importance of clear and accessible information for patients about what these changes mean for their care.
• We also stressed the need for clear feedback and escalation pathways, so people know how to raise questions or concerns.