We have this week published a new version of our Blueprint for cataract training in the independent sector which is aimed at supporting independent sector providers (ISPs) to deliver appropriate and safe cataract training, where it is required.
Our guidance was originally published in 2022, and developed with training programme directors, NHS England, ophthalmologists in training and ISPs. This update reflects learning from the last three years. It places particular emphasis on facilitating cataract training opportunities for specialty and specialist grade (SAS) doctors, locally employed (LE) doctors, clinical fellows and consultant ophthalmologists, as well as continuing to enable placements for resident doctors.
Key points from the blueprint are:
- Every NHS-funded cataract surgery should be treated as a training opportunity, irrespective of where it is performed.
- All NHS settings providing cataract services should maximise training opportunities.
- Every ISP delivering NHS-funded cataract surgery must be able to train NHS ophthalmic resident, SAS and LE doctors, in line with the requirements of the NHS organisation. Placements should be agreed in consultation with the Training Programme Directors in the region and aligned with NHS England’s March 2022 cataract service specification and supporting guidance.
- Commissioners must ensure that contractual arrangements require ISPs delivering NHS-funded cataract surgery to demonstrate their capacity to train NHS ophthalmic resident, SAS and LE doctors in every region in which they operate, based on the requirements of the NHS organisation.
- During all placements, all pre-placement and intra-placement documentation must be available to both NHS and ISP training partners.
- Effective training within ISPs requires proactive joint planning between NHS organisations and ISPs. Where a placement is required and appropriate, discussions should begin at least one month before the placement begins.
- Doctors undertaking ISP placements should log and audit all cataract surgeries in a similar manner to those performed or assisted within NHS organisations. Where local arrangements allow, doctors should be encouraged to follow-up on their complications.
Download the Blueprint for cataract training in the independent sector.