A qualitative study of stakeholder views regarding participation in locally commissioned enhanced optometric services.

ABSTRACT:

Objectives

To explore the views of optometrists, general practitioners (GPs) and ophthalmologists regarding the development and organisation of community-based enhanced optometric services.

Design

Qualitative study using free-text questionnaires and telephone interviews.

Setting

A minor eye conditions scheme (MECS) and a glaucoma referral refinement scheme (GRRS) are based on accredited community optometry practices.

Participants

41 optometrists, 6 ophthalmologists and 25 GPs.

Results

The most common reason given by optometrists for participation in enhanced schemes was to further their professional development; however, as providers of 'for-profit' healthcare, it was clear that participants had also considered the impact of the schemes on their business

SUBMITTER: Konstantakopoulou E 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC4039782 | biostudies-literature | 2014 May

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature