A diagnostic unit for ophthalmology patients is now open.

The unit, the first of its kind at UHB, is based at Solihull Hospital and will see patients with a number of ophthalmology conditions, including medical retina and glaucoma.

The unit should deliver a number of benefits for patients, including reducing the time spent at hospital and the number of appointments they need to attend. Many patients should be able to have their condition managed in the community, rather than needing to come to the hospital repeatedly.

Thousands of patients will be seen at the unit per year. The facility will act as a pilot site, with diagnostic hubs for both ophthalmology and other specialties expected to open later this year. 

The one-stop-shop appointments will mean patients only have to visit one place, one time, to diagnose their condition so clinical teams can advise on the best way to manage it.

Do I need to speak to my GP about this?

No. We have contacted GPs and optometrists to make them aware of the diagnostic unit and how patients will be referred.  

 Will this mean I will be seen quicker?

We expect to see thousands of patients per year at the diagnostic hub. This will have a significant impact on helping us to see as many patients as possible as soon as we can.