By considering the patient journey through a modern cataract pathway, this lecture takes a real-world look at how we can deliver one of the key tenets of patient-centred care: ensuring patients are at the heart of their care decisions. Mr Kirkpatrick will discuss key decision points in that journey and expand how patient choice is brought to the forefront particularly for the topic of intraocular lens choice, where he will delve into the key components of IOL technology and their influence on patient outcomes. Furthermore, current and future approaches to enable more collaborative working between ophthalmic care professionals to ultimately provide excellent standards of care will be considered.

Learning outcomes:

Understand practical ways to work more collaboratively with ophthalmologists in the best interest of patients

Understand current and future IOL technology and surgical techniques to improve patient outcomes and reduce peri-operative complications

Ensure appropriate decision making with patients prior to referral and appreciate other key stages of the cataract care pathway involving patient discussion.