Proposed change to retinal screening services is considered by MDHB

09/05/2011 | Retinal Screening Services

A proposal to create a district-wide, community-based retinal screening service is being considered by MidCentral District Health Board.

This proposal was discussed at the Community and Public Health Advisory Committee meeting last week and recommended that these changes be adopted by the board on 17 May 2011.

Retinal screening services are used to detect diabetic retinopathy – a common complication of diabetes which can cause loss of sight. People with diabetes are generally screened every two years. If they are high risk, they can be screened up to every six months. If any degeneration is detected, the patient is referred to the Ophthalmology Department at Palmerston North Hospital for treatment.

In recent years, retinal screening services for Tararua, Otaki and Horowhenua communities have been provided by private optometrists under a contract with Central PHO.  This service has worked very well.  Now MidCentral DHB wants to extend the same service to the Palmerston North and Manawatu communities which have traditionally received their service from Palmerston North Hospital.

MDHB Senior Portfolio Manager of Primary Health Care, Craig Johnston, said: “The proposed change would see the existing retinal screening contracts with Central PHO extended to include Palmerston North and Manawatu, therefore providing a district-wide service.

“Using optometrists to provide retinal screening in the community will make for a more convenient service for patients.  It will also free up capacity in the Ophthalmology Department at Palmerston North Hospital allowing the Department to focus on more specialised services. 
 
“Combining all retinal screening services into one contract will also reduce administration costs and optimise accountability.

“Maintaining a quality service is very important.  The MidCentral Health Ophthalmology Department will be involved in the selection and training of optometrists and will also provide oversight of the service on an ongoing basis. 

Subject to the completion of transition planning, the service transfer is proposed for 1 October 2011 and would be a two year contract.

This proposal is in line with Government and DHB strategies, and is included in the 2010/11 Annual Plan and the Better, Sooner, More Convenient Business Case.

Contact: Communications Unit (06) 350-8945