advice concerning virtual clinics.

[alison18]

Hi everyone and thank you for letting me join yr group.I have just read purpoints post on the virtual clinic.I too have the same problem.I have been for my eye and camera tests today and AGAIN another virtual clinic.I have complained to the trust and was assurred it would not happen again and SHOULD be seen by my consultant whe the appointment letter has his name onit...to be seen.I have asked and argued with doctors and staff but this has continued over the last couple of appointments.Can anyone give me some advise please...I am tired of receiving letters and no one to ask questions to.Thank you.

[rosyG]

I should try and find out where the consultant is based- I received a letter last year saying I was to go to a virtual clinic at a different venue- my initial diagnosis had been difficult so I refused, in an e mail to the consultant, saying I need to see a doctor- and that I would like to know who to write to about "withdrawal of treatment" if this wasn't possible - and they agreed- I then had a further vein occlusion which might well have been missed if I was somewhere with out specialists so I'm glad I made a fuss.

The consultant said I had done the right thing. The virtual clinics, I think, are to try and cut costs, but I feel they are really only suitable for patients that have recovered and are having long term checks.

[alison18 in reply to rosyG]

Thank you rosy g for yr reply and I will speak to my consultants secretery and see why I am not seen on a regular basis.I am now waiting for ANOTHER letter with my results.I totally agree that these virtual clinics are cost cutting measures and disregarding their patients who they feel can get away with being seen.DISGUSTING.!!My hospital is now introducing these clinics in the fracture clinic.Thank you once again for yr helpful advice.

[Rosalyn-helpline Partner]

Dear alison18,

This is the feedback on virtual clinics that we received from an ophthalmologist earlier in the year:

"More and more AMD centres are beginning to adopt Virtual Clinics in order to address issues with capacity.

The idea is to reduce the amount of time spent by each patient in clinic, and increase through-put in order to allow larger numbers of patients to be seen.

The actual details of Virtual Clinics and how they’re run varies from centre to centre, as different options have been adopted.

Generally, it’s the patients with stable vision after treatment who’re transferred to the Virtual clinics.

I know some patients do not like the non-contact with clinicians. It is fair for the patient to express that view locally to the team, expressing why they don’t like it in writing. It may then be possible for changes to be effected to the benefit of all concerned."

Just to make you aware, we are currently offering free 6 month membership. This is a good way to keep up with current developments. Please ring us if you would like to benefit from this, or join via the following link:

macularsociety.org/6months

I hope that this addresses your query.

Please do not hesitate to contact us if you would like to discuss this further.

The Macular Society helpline is open 9am – 5pm Monday to Friday on 0300 3030 111.

Alternately, you can contact us via:

[e-mail]

Kind regards,

[alison18 in reply to Rosalyn-helpline]

Thank you Roslyn for answering my query concerning the virtual clinics.I do agree thst these are useful to all concerned when the AMD has stabilised.Unfortunately over 3 months ago I had a letter from him stating that my condition had reactivated and arranged for 3monthly injections and he would see me after.My appointments to see him after completion of the injections was cancelled and rearranged 4times and was told I would be seen by him I went for my follow up last week for cameras and to be seen but was told to go home and wait for another letter.The young doctors assistant who did the cameras also missed the white light part of the test on my bad eye.When I told him this hadnt happened he replied ...that will be ok ..the doctor will be able to see things ok.I feel this was a total waste of time...or am I worrying too much.At the end of the day its my eyesight at risk.Thank you for yr help...I really appreciate it as I wouldnt know where to go for help and advise.

[Rosalyn-helpline Partner in reply to alison18]

Dear alison18,

No, I don't think you are worrying too much.

Have you now seen the ophthalmologist subsequent to your loading dose of 3 injections or been assessed by the virtual clinic?

Are more injections needed and if so, do you have an injection appointment booked?

Which type of injection are you having?

How long are you having to wait after the 3rd injection for the 4th injection if needed?

Kind regards,

Macular Society helpline

9am – 5pm Monday to Friday, 0300 3030 111

[e-mail]

[alison18]

Dear Rosalyn.Thank you for yr reply.My last injection of Eyelea(3rd one in the course of 3) was on the 30 th August.After numerous cancellations by the clinic I was seen in the virtual clinic last week on27th October for eye tests and cameras.Iiwas sent home with no information and now waiting for a letter from my consultant with the results.I dont know if further injections are needed until I receive the letter.Its so frustrating and stressful which doesnt help my other health conditions.Thank you again for your help and advise.