Natasha Asghar MS has visited Julian Davies Opticians to discuss the future of eye care in Wales following the introduction of the new Welsh optometry contract.
During the visit, Natasha met with Chris Tannorella, managing director of Julian Davies Opticians, to hear first-hand about the opportunities and ongoing challenges facing community optometry across Wales.
One of the key issues raised was the impact of anti-social behaviour outside some optometry practices, including in Newport, where on-street drinking and disorder have discouraged patients from attending appointments.
While the new optometry contract has been welcomed by the profession, concerns remain about its inconsistent implementation across Wales. Significant disparities between health boards mean that some areas are embracing modern ways of working, while others continue to rely on outdated systems.
For example, Cardiff and Vale University Health Board has made progress with electronic patient records and an electronic eye referral system, whereas other health boards, including Aneurin Bevan University Health Board, continue to depend on paper-based processes.
Chris also highlighted the untapped potential of community optometrists to help reduce pressure on hospitals. Practices such as Julian Davies Opticians already see around 90 patients each week, yet many patients who could be treated safely in the community remain in secondary care, adding to waiting lists.
Natasha Asghar MS, who represents Newport and Islwyn in the Welsh Parliament said:
"I was delighted to meet Chris and the team at Julian Davies Opticians to discuss the future of eye care in Wales. Community optometrists are already delivering high-quality care close to where people live, and they have a vital role to play in reducing pressure on our hospitals.
"Chris set out clearly what is needed from the next Welsh Government and our local health boards: consistent implementation of the new optometry contract across Wales, greater investment in digital systems, and more opportunities for the workforce to develop new skills.
"If the Welsh Government is serious about shifting more healthcare from hospitals into the community, it must ensure local optometrists have the support and resources they need to deliver more treatment closer to home. That will mean faster care for patients and help tackle waiting lists."
