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Glaucoma screening and monitoring service at Moorfields Bedford

Glaucoma service

If you are attending this service for the first time (screening):

Your GP or optometrist has referred you to have your eyes examined to assess whether you might have - or might be at risk of developing - a condition called glaucoma. Glaucoma affects the nerve at the back of the eye and, if left untreated, could eventually lead to irreversible sight loss.

If you have previously attended the glaucoma service (monitoring):

The clinician who saw you previously advised that your condition is stable. Although we need to continue to monitor your eyes, you will not need to see the doctor on the day of your tests.

How does the glaucoma screening and monitoring service work?

The service is delivered by specially trained ophthalmic practitioners. You will have several eye tests including:

  • Tonometry – eye pressure check.
  • Visual fields – a test to evaluate whether there is any sight loss affecting your side vision.
  • Digital imaging –specialist instruments will be used to give a detailed assessment of the appearance of the optic nerve at the back of your eye.

Please do not drive to your appointment.

 This is because we may need to use eye drops to enlarge the pupil so that we can get good quality images and these drops will blur your vision for between two and six hours. Please arrange for someone to pick you up after your appointment.

Will I see a doctor at this appointment?

No, you will not see a doctor at this appointment; however your tests will be reviewed by a glaucoma doctor within a few weeks. You will then be sent a letter explaining the outcome, which will also be sent to your GP. Depending on the test results, you might be given a follow up appointment with us or you may be discharged back to your local optician for routine check-ups.

What do I need to bring with me on the day?

You will need to bring:

  • A list of any medications you are taking.
  • A list of any eye drops you are taking.
  • Your most recent distance and reading glasses, or your most recent glasses prescription.

How long will the appointment take? 

We aim to finish all your tests in two hours.

 

Author: Julie Smith, medical photographer 

Review date: October 2022