Written question WQ100350
- Asked by
- Sam RowlandsConservative
- To be answered by
- Cabinet Minister for Health and Care
- Tabled
- Due
- Answered
- Time to answer
- 9 days
Question
What action is the Cabinet Minister taking to address the rising prevalence of glaucoma?
Answer
Answered by Cabinet Minister for Health and Care (Mabon ap Gwynfor)
Glaucoma is a chronic condition, and prevalence is increasing as our population ages and more people receive earlier diagnosis. To meet rising demand, we established national glaucoma pathways through Wales General Ophthalmic Services, enabling suitably qualified community optometrists to assess and monitor patients closer to home, reducing pressure on hospital eye services and improving timely access to care.
We continue to work with health boards to maximise the benefits of these pathways by increasing the transfer of clinically appropriate glaucoma care from hospitals into community optometry service.