Dear Colleagues
As we head into the season’s holidays, the health service faces renewed pressures from the new Covid variant, omicron. I know that we all stand ready to support our colleagues in acute care and Covid wards if needed.
Covid is once again likely to have an impact on ophthalmology services. We have to remain resilient and professional to continue to manage our patients in the greatest need, to treat those who have already waited too long for their clinic appointment or their eye procedure.
I know from conversations with colleagues, in meetings and responses to the membership survey, that the current situation continues to have a significant impact on the mental health and wellbeing of many. Please be mindful and let us support each other through this critical period.
The College is continuing to work on behalf of members to ensure eye care services and our workforce are not left behind. In the January edition of College News, I hope to expand a bit more on what we are doing, and look forward to writing to you again.
As always, I encourage members to feedback their thoughts and ideas. You can do this at [email protected].
Finally I wish you all a Merry Christmas and a happier 2022. Stay safe and well.
Professor Bernie Chang
President
The Royal College of Ophthalmologists