A new proposal could see some optometrists able to prescribe oral medications in an expansion of their prescribing powers.
Ahpra is calling for submissions on the proposal, which it says will give patients more options to get the most appropriate eye care when and where they need it, particularly in rural areas where people may have difficulty accessing a GP or ophthalmologist for a prescription.
RACGP Vice President and WA Chair Dr Ramya Raman said more information on the interoperability of health information was needed before the College could form a clear position.
The proposed changes would bring Australia in line with other jurisdictions such as New Zealand, the UK and USA, and allow patients to get urgent treatment on the spot.
If implemented, patients would be able to receive treatment from optometrists for eye conditions that require oral medicines, instead of having to see multiple practitioners.
Endorsed optometrists already diagnose eye conditions and prescribe topical medicines, but under the changes they would also be able to prescribe oral medicines where clinically appropriate to treat potentially sight-threatening eye conditions, bacterial eye infections, eye allergies and short-term eye pain.
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Dr Ramya Raman said the College would require a more detailed review to before determining whether it would support the proposal.
“It depends what is on the table in terms of the information,” she said.
“Our concern from that point of view would be fragmenting of care, especially for older patients. If we are not getting clear communication in relation to what has been done or what has been referred, there is a risk that things can fall through the cracks which ultimately will affect the patient.
“Older patients have complex conditions and multiple medication mixes and it’s about ensuring a consideration of all of these to make an informed decision for a good outcome for the patient.”
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Dr Raman said without oversight of a patient’s broader health context, there could be several areas of concern and that in the end decisions needed to be made based on what was best for patients.
“As a GP and someone who leads a team of GPs and a practice, we work really closely with all our colleagues, including allied heath staff, pharmacists and optometrists, but the key factor here is to ensure that continuity of care of the patient is really clear for both the patient and general practitioner who is involved,” she said.
Optometry Board of Australia Chair Stuart Aamodt said providing people with eye conditions timely access to the right treatment, under the care of qualified professionals, could make a real difference to people’s eye health.
Mr Aamodt said the changes could reduce the need for the patient to see multiple practitioners for treatment.
“It promises to remove barriers to effective treatment, such as access, time and cost. That is good for patients and good for the system.”
Under the changes, optometrists would be able to prescribe from an approved list of medicines.
The list itself would be published on the Board website and subject to ongoing review to reflect contemporary eye health practices.
Submissions can be made as part of the public consultation on this matter until December 24.
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