Testing of sight risk-based framework

The overarching aim of this research is to develop a risk-based framework to understand the risks of separating the different components of an optometric sight test in the four nations of the UK, i.e. test components not being carried out at the same time, by the same person and/or in the same place. The research is intended to address the following specific objectives in the context of impact severity, impact probability, and relevance: • to define the different components of a ‘safe’ sight test as a basis for assessing potential impacts of separation of the test by time, person or place; • to collect suitable data that allows for assessment of the possible impacts of separating sight test components on i) adult patient care and ii) the likelihood of detection of specific, potentially sight threatening conditions (e.g. glaucoma) which are not covered by national screening programmes; • to assess the possible impact of separating sight test components on clinical decision-making and optimum referral practice; • to propose a sight test workflow that outlines the segregated responsibilities for the different sight test components (e.g. by workforce cadre) taking into account recent and anticipated developments in service delivery and technology; • to discuss the interrelationship between the risks identified and strategies for risk mitigation; and • to discuss how the risks might affect different adult patient populations (e.g. stratified by ethnicity, gender, age, geographical location and socioeconomic status).