ABDO has welcomed the Senedd’s support for a motion calling for urgent action to improve ophthalmology and eyecare services across Wales.
The motion, debated on 8 July 2026, highlighted the scale of the challenge facing patients and services. It noted that ophthalmology waiting lists remained extremely long, with around one in eight patients waiting for an NHS appointment in Wales waiting specifically for eyecare.
It also referred to the risk of irreversible sight loss caused by delays and the growing future demand for services.
Members noted that Wales currently has 1.97 consultant ophthalmologists per 100,000 people, described in the motion as the lowest rate in the UK. The motion also raised concerns about duplication across health board structures and the resulting variation in access to care.
The Senedd called on the Welsh Government to establish surgical hubs capable of addressing long waits in specialties such as ophthalmology, implement recommendations to streamline and standardise eyecare services across Wales, and consider creating an all-Wales ophthalmology health board covering both primary and secondary care.
Abi Crutcher, ABDO regional lead for Wales, said: “We welcome the Senedd’s recognition of the significant pressures facing eyecare services in Wales, and the urgent need to reduce delays that can lead to avoidable and irreversible sight loss.
“The scale of the waiting lists makes clear that this cannot be addressed by hospital services alone. Any future reform must make full and effective use of the entire regulated eyecare workforce, supported by better integration between hospital, primary and community services.
“Dispensing opticians and contact lens opticians have important clinical skills, strong and established relationships with patients, and a valuable role to play in delivering accessible care closer to home. They can also support patients throughout their eyecare journey, including through advice, ongoing management, referral and low vision support.
“We would encourage the Welsh Government to involve all eyecare professions from the outset as it considers the motion’s recommendations and the future design of services.
“A consistent, properly funded national approach should improve access for patients while ensuring that the skills available within community optical practices are fully recognised and used,” added Abi.