LOCSU and Newmedica sign agreement on post-cataract tariffs for community optometrists

Community ophthalmology provider Newmedica has entered into a framework agreement with the Local Optical Committee Support Unit (LOCSU) which will see patients returning to their optometrist after cataract surgery for post-operative assessment for a set tariff.

This is the first national framework agreement of its kind for LOCSU with a community ophthalmology provider. It will be open to all optometrists providing they have successfully completed the LOCSU/WOPEC cataract accreditation.

The post-operative cataract pathway is evidence-based and uses best practice guidance to improve the patient journey and clinical and cost-effectiveness.

Richard Whittington, LOCSU Chief Operating Officer, said: “At LOCSU we are pleased to be entering into the agreement with Newmedica as it will enable Primary Eyecare Companies and practices to offer effective cataract post-operative care in a timely manner to patients in the community. It will also provide an opportunity to redesign local services with primary care being at the heart of delivery.”

Darshak Shah, Newmedica Managing Director, said: “We have a simple mission for Newmedica: to make eyecare better. Eyecare services have traditionally been hospital-based yet many ophthalmic assessments and treatments currently carried out in secondary care can be undertaken effectively in primary care.

“At Newmedica we are delighted to have entered into an agreement with LOCSU that will be open to all appropriately accredited optometrists. This is a significant step forward in the redesign of local eye care services that will be of benefit to patients and to practitioners.”