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

Objectives: to explore the views of optometrists, 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) based in 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. Lack of fit with the ‘retail’ business model of optometry was a frequently given reason for non-participation. The methods used for training and accreditation were generally thought to be appropriate, and participating optometrists welcomed the opportunities for ...