# Optometrist-delivered selective laser trabeculoplasty in the HES – a training protocol and early service evaluation

## TL;DR

This paper describes a new training program for optometrists to safely perform laser eye treatments for glaucoma, aiming to improve healthcare delivery.

## Contribution

The paper introduces a standardized training protocol for non-medical practitioners to perform selective laser trabeculoplasty.

## Key findings

- Optometrists can safely deliver SLT treatments following local protocols.
- The training program is based on medical education principles and prior qualitative research.
- The initiative is expected to benefit multidisciplinary ophthalmic healthcare.

## Abstract

Over the last decade, the delivery of glaucoma care in the UK has changed dramatically, with more non-medical ophthalmic practitioners involved in the care of glaucoma patients. Optometrists and other non-medical professionals are now involved in the delivery of laser treatments in the Hospital Eye Service (HES), but there is currently no standardised national training framework for non-medical clinicians. Moorfields Eye Hospital and UCL’s Institute of Ophthalmology have developed and delivered an education and training programme for the delivery of lasers, including Selective Laser Trabeculoplasty (SLT) by non-medical ophthalmic practitioners. The training programme is based on medical education principles, is informed by previous qualitative research into the role of ophthalmic practitioners in the delivery of laser treatments and is expected to have multidisciplinary benefits for ophthalmic healthcare. Clinical audit data indicate that optometrists can deliver safe SLT treatments, adhering to local protocols.