Mental health support across the sight loss pathway: a qualitative exploration of eye care patients, optometrists, and ECLOs

Summary

The process of becoming visually impaired or blind is undoubtedly a highly emotional experience, requiring practical and psychological support. Information on mental health support provision in the UK across the sight-loss pathway, however, is largely unknown, especially amongst healthcare practitioners that are often sought after for advice: the referring optometrist and eye clinic liaison officer (ECLO). This study aims to ascertain the perceived accessibility and quality of mental health support across the sight-loss pathway. It is important that referring optometrists are aware of the need for mental health support services and can signpost to local support services including the third sector anytime during the referral process. Future large-scale, UK-wide research into
referral practice and signposting for mental health support for patients is warranted, to identify how services can be improved in order to ensure that the wellbeing of patients is maintained