Read highlights of some of the advocacy and influencing successes we’ve achieved on your behalf in the first quarter of 2026.
We have influenced government policy across the UK by:
- Successfully calling for changes to ophthalmology tariffs in England. We are pleased that NHS England has rebalanced ophthalmology tariffs to better support complex care. Payments for cataract procedures have now fallen by 20%, with most savings redirected to more complex ophthalmic care. This is an important step toward better prioritising patients at greatest risk of irreversible sight loss.
- Shaping the conclusions of Senedd’s Health and Social Care Committee’s inquiry into ophthalmology services in Wales, which got cross-party support. Our evidence is reflected in the Committee’s final report and recommendations, and was cited in a Senedd debate.
- Outlining our key asks for the next Scottish and Welsh Governments ahead of the Holyrood and Senedd elections on 7 May. We’ve highlighted what’s needed to ensure sustainable ophthalmology services in Scotland and Wales.
- Clarifying our focus for future glaucoma care, jointly with the UK and Eire Glaucoma Society . We want commissioners to implement the recommendations of GIRFT’s forthcoming glaucoma best practice pathway, such as the diagnostic asynchronous virtual review model.
- Sharing our views on the government’s Medical Training Prioritisation Bill. We support future approaches to increase specialty training places, deliver fair transition, future arrangements and progression routes for international medical graduates.
- Focusing on improvements to the interface between optometry and ophthalmology, by responding to an APPG for Health inquiry.
We have supported best practice in ophthalmology by:
- Promoting the success of Moorfields Eye Hospital’s SPARC in our newest case study. This uses a digital single point of access for faster clinical triage, improved communication and data sharing, and clearer patient choice.
- Starting work to develop common standards for seamlessly sharing images and test results across ophthalmology and optometry through joint working with the College of Optometrists.
- Updating our Blueprint for cataract training in the independent sector to support independent sector providers to deliver and facilitate opportunities for cataract training where it is required.
- Highlighting safe and effective adoption of AI in healthcare in our response to a Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency consultation.
We are continuing to work with members and eye health partners to influence public policy and promote high standards of care that improves outcomes for patients.