Optometrists need to be able to communicate with other health professionals to ensure best patient outcomes. Other health care professionals include (but is not limited to) ophthalmologists, GPs, pharmacists and orthoptists.


GPs
Many systemic health conditions (eg diabetes) not only affect the body but can manifest in the eye. Optometrists play a vital role in the detection of certain ocular manifestations and in the prevention of further harm to the patient.

The following are some potential reasons to refer to the GP:
  • To demonstrate evidence of disease in the retinal microvasculature which may warrant further systemic investigation
  • To request for the prescription of oral therapeutic medications for the treatment of an ocular condition e.g. oral Diamox for the treatment of raised IOP
  • For the co-management of a patient with a chronic systemic condition, with an elevated risk or threat to vision & eye health.  
  • For further referral to specialist care or other health concerns
    • eg a vision complaint that is determined to be a vestibular problem may require an auditory work-up by an audiologist
    • The patient will first be referred to the GP for the consideration of other health concerns.




Pharmacists

 Optometrists that are therapeutically endorsed can prescribe topical medication for patients for treatment of ocular conditions. The extensive list of scheduled medication available for optometrists to prescribe can be found below.

Some medication are listed under the Pharmaceutical benefits scheme (PBS), and are therefore available at a cheaper price for medicare card holders. 
Click here to see all PBS medication optometrists can prescribe.


 Ophthalmologists


In some circumstances, an optometrist might refer a patient to an ophthalmologist if the case is:
  • Too complex ie it might be chronic. progressive and severe
  • The risk/threat to vision is high eg patient is monocular
  • For the evaluation of surgical intervention



Vision Rehabilitation Organisations 

When you might refer:

  • When there is documented and significant clinical vision loss and functional vision loss
  • When there is evidence of impact to livelihood &/or lifestyle which cannot be ameliorated with spectacles alone.

Reasons to refer: Patient impact

  • According to Guide Dogs Victoria:
    • Loss of independence in the home 
    • Difficultly with personal care
    • Difficulty with the use of technology
    • Problems engaging in hobbies and activities of recreation
    • Difficulty with general mobility 

Who to refer to:

  • Guide dogs Victoria
  • Vision Australia
  • The Australian College of Optometry - Low Vision Clinic


The examples listed above are not intended to be an exhaustive list. This list is intended to supplement your own clinical judgement and practice management.