Optometrists embrace new online tool

30/06/2011 | Spectacle Subsidies

Optometrists and ophthalmologists applying for spectacle subsidies from Enable New Zealand, for children under 16, can now lodge and submit these applications online. Previously, assessors were required to complete a paper application form and post this to Enable New Zealand.

The application process is now more transparent. Assessors (authorised optometrists and ophthalmologists) will know immediately if an application has been successfully submitted and have an online record of applications they have submitted.

Lynley Broad, Business Support Team Leader for Enable New Zealand says “By receiving the application data electronically we are able to reduce the time it takes to process an application. Assessors know for sure when we’ve received the subsidy applications and we can pay the subsidy to them more quickly.

“Assessors have been very positive about the benefits of lodging and submitting applications online. Some assessors have been part of the project team, testing the new tool and helping us to refine it.”

The demand for spectacle subsidies has been steadily increasing; between 2008 and 2009 there was a 44% increase in demand. Reducing the processing and payment timeframes will help Enable New Zealand manage the ongoing increase in demand for spectacle subsidies.

Heather Browning, General Manager of Enable New Zealand says: “Although there has been no change in how we actually process the subsidy applications, enabling assessors to apply online has achieved some important benefits for assessors and us.

“Applications for short term equipment loan requests by MidCentral District Health Board staff, will also be available online very soon. We hope to look at other services that could also benefit from going online, but that is a little down the track.”

The paper-based subsidy application process will remain in place for any assessors who choose to continue using it.

This change in how subsidies can be applied for is not anticipated to impact the provision of subsidised spectacles to children under 16.

Background

Enable New Zealand manages the Spectacle Subsidy contract for the Ministry of Health, annually processing 12,400 applications for spectacle subsidies.

For more information about the subsidy, such as what the subsidy covers and who can receive it, go to http://www.moh.govt.nz/moh.nsf/indexmh/disability-fundedservices-glasses.

Contact: Communications Unit (06) 350-8945