Community Ophthalmology

NHS Thames Valley ICB ("the Commissioner") is commissioning a Community Ophthalmology service, diagnosing and, where appropriate, treating specific ophthalmic conditions. It is intended to address conditions which do not require treatment in secondary care but does not include delivery of services which form part of the core GMS Primary Care Contract. The service provision is for patients aged over 16, delivered in an outpatient setting; with expectation of appointments being made available within a maximum of 3 weeks from point of referral. Referrals are taken via a triage service (currently provided by Evolutio) from GPs and optometrists. Referrals are passed by Evolutio to SOPS Healthcare Ltd. The service is aimed at conditions which do not require hospital services. Follow-ups are provided only where required, and there is typically a maximum of 1 follow-up for every first appointment/visit. Thames Valley ICB has followed PSR Direct Award C for the contract to which this notice relates.