๐๐๐๐ฎ๐๐ข๐ง๐ ๐๐ ๐๐ญ๐ซ๐๐ข๐ง & ๐๐ฆ๐ฉ๐ซ๐จ๐ฏ๐ข๐ง๐ ๐๐ฒ๐ ๐๐๐ซ๐ ๐๐๐๐๐ฌ๐ฌ
๐ Optometrists can play a crucial role in significantly reduce the workload of general practitioners , particularly as new data from the Royal College of General Practitioners (RCGP) shows that GPs in less affluent areas now manage an average of 2451 patients, compared to 2129 in more affluent areas. Over the past six years, GPs in deprived regions have seen a 260-patient increase, while those in affluent areas have experienced a 140-patient rise.
๐ฉโโ๏ธ The AOP is urging greater use of optometrists for eye-related concerns. AOP chief executive, Adam Sampson, highlights that GPs have reached a โcrisis point.โ Expanding optometrists' roles could help alleviate this strain, improve access to care, and streamline healthcare services, particularly in overburdened areas.