Read the latest RCOphth news updates and guidance here.
The Royal College of Ophthalmologists is deeply concerned about the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on academic ophthalmology, research and innovation in ophthalmology and vision sciences.
In this episode we spoke with Helen Devonport, a Consultant Ophthalmologist from Bradford who shared her experience of how the COVID-19 crisis affected her medical retina service and the steps taken to ensure patients were kept safe.
The RCOphth and CoO have updated guidance on the use of NCT based on new evidence showing there is a low likelihood of viral particles in the tears and conjunctiva, even in those with active COVID-19 infection or conjunctivitis.
The Royal College of Ophthalmologists and the British & Irish Orthoptic Society have released rapid advice regarding the use of vision testing apps for children during the pandemic lockdown and recovery of services.
Ophthalmology is facing significant capacity challenges brought about by the COVID-19 pandemic and ophthalmologists need to plan restoration of cataract surgery whilst dealing with the challenges of COVID-19 transmission prevention.
The COVID-19 response is likely to move beyond full lockdown soon, and many hospitals are examining how they can restart some services safely.
The UK has been experiencing a shortage of mitomycin 2mg, 10mg, 20mg vials for intravenous administration and 40mg for intravesical administration since late October 2019. Since the recall of Kyowa Kirin product in early November 2019 all Trusts have had to rely on unlicensed imports. Kyowa Kirin have withdrawn their marketing authorisation for Mitomycin-C and have no immediate plans to return to market with this product range.
A statement from the Academy of Medical Royal Colleges (AoMRC) has recommended patients ‘not to hold back’ from seeking medical treatment for other conditions during the Covid19 epidemic. The statement also recommends the public must be fully confident that they can and should, seek medical assistance if they have symptoms which cause concern, or they already are being treated for a serious health condition.
The COVID-19 pandemic has seriously affected the provision of eye care in primary and secondary care. Measures currently in place to protect people from acquiring the infection will undoubtedly lead to vision loss that, in normal circumstances, would have been preventable.
During these unprecedented times, The Royal College of Ophthalmologists will continue to deliver and manage its services to members where feasible. This includes the NOD Audit, which will continue to be managed by the NOD team and in liaison with trusts and surgeons.
