A member of CDRA’s executive committee recently had first-hand experience of the Community Urgent Eyecare Service (CUES) after his wife was accidentally struck in the eye by a twig while pruning in the garden.
Seeking advice, he visited the NHS website and discovered the Community Urgent Eyecare Service, which provides rapid access to assessment and treatment for urgent eye problems. He then searched for local optometry practices participating in the Primary Eyecare Service, whose practitioners can refer patients directly to NHS hospital eye units when necessary.
The couple normally have their eye tests at Specsavers Epsom, which appeared on the list of participating practices. Knowing there was convenient parking nearby in Waterloo Road Car Park, just a short walk from the High Street branch, he called the practice and was advised to bring his wife in immediately for an appointment at 2.30 pm.
The team at Specsavers Epsom were outstanding. They were caring, professional and empathetic throughout, carrying out a comprehensive series of examinations and tests, including diagnostic photographs of the eye.
Following the assessment, the optometrist concluded that specialist treatment was required and recommended referral to an NHS Eye A&E unit, as the necessary medication could not be prescribed at Specsavers.
Specsavers Epsom customers are usually referred to the Eye Unit at St Helier Hospital. However, the optometrist recognised that, as Chessington residents, the couple would normally attend Kingston Hospital, where their medical records would already be available. She therefore investigated the possibility of arranging treatment there instead.
Demonstrating considerable determination and professionalism, the optometrist contacted the Kingston Hospital Eye Unit, obtained the relevant contact details and successfully arranged an appointment at the Kingston Royal Eye Unit for 4pm the same day. She also forwarded all the examination findings and supporting information in advance.
The couple were seen promptly on arrival at Kingston. The consultant was highly complimentary about the quality and thoroughness of the information provided by Specsavers Epsom, which greatly assisted the assessment process.
Fortunately, the injury was diagnosed as a scratch to the surface of the eye. Although painful, it was treated with antibiotic ointment and eye drops to relieve discomfort and help prevent infection.
We are pleased to report that the patient is recovering well.
If you experience a sudden eye problem, it is worth considering the Community Urgent Eyecare Service (CUES) as your first point of contact. In many cases, you can be assessed and treated more quickly than waiting in a hospital A&E department, while also helping to reduce pressure on already stretched emergency services.
Community Urgent Eyecare Service (CUES)
