Ophthalmology clinical quality indicators

The clinical quality indicators for ophthalmology are:

 

Cataract

This is the clinical quality indicator for the proportion of procedures in which the posterior capsule is unintentionally damaged during cataract surgery.

Graph

Rationale

Cataract is our most commonly performed surgical procedure on the eye. Unintentional damage to the posterior lens capsule is the most frequently-reported complication.

Our objectives

We aim to have a posterior capsule rupture rate below 2%.

Ref: European Registry of Quality Outcomes for Cataract and Refractive surgery 2012.

Comment on current performance

We have achieved our objective of low rates of posterior capsule rupture during cataract surgery.

 

Diabetic retinopathy

This is the clinical quality indicator for the proportion of patients referred to us from the diabetic screening programme who are seen in accordance with National Diabetic Screening guidance.

Source: Key performance indicator DR3 from the English National Screening Programme for Diabetic Retinopathy

Rationale

Diabetic retinopathy is one of the most common causes of severe visual impairment in the UK. Prompt identification and referral of severe cases is crucial for successful treatment to retain vision.

Our objectives

We aim for all (100%) of patients referred to us from the diabetic retinal screening programme to be assessed in accordance with the National Diabetic Screening guidance.

Comment on current performance

Information anticipated in 4 months.

 

Glaucoma

This is the clinical quality indicator for the proportion of patients who are offered the full range of tests following referral with:

  • chronic open-angle glaucoma
  • suspected glaucoma
  • ocular hypertension (raised pressure in the eye)

Reference: NICE Clinical Guideline 85 (April 2009); NICE Quality Standard 7 (March 2011).

Rationale

Glaucoma is one of the most common causes of visual impairment in the UK. Timely, comprehensive investigation is key to diagnosis and treatment to retain good vision in this condition.

Our objectives

We aim for 100% our patients to be offered the full range of tests.

Current performance