Recruitment ongoing to fill eye doctor gap in Western Trust

Recruitment is ongoing to boost eye doctor coverage in the Western Trust, Health Minister Robin Swann has said.
By Kevin Mullan
Published 8th Apr 2024, 11:26 BST
Updated 8th Apr 2024, 11:27 BST
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Currently eight ophthalmologists are employed by the Trust, which is funded for 9.5 staff.

Health Minister Robin Swann said: “There are currently eight consultant ophthalmologists working for the Western Health and Social Trust, which includes Foyle, with the breakdown as follows: five full-time, one locum and two part-time.

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“The Western Health and Social Care Trust are funded for 9.5 whole time equivalent ophthalmologists. Recruitment work is ongoing within the Trust to fill the gap in consultant ophthalmology posts.”

Currently eight ophthalmologists are employed by the Trust, which is funded for 9.5 staff.Currently eight ophthalmologists are employed by the Trust, which is funded for 9.5 staff.
Currently eight ophthalmologists are employed by the Trust, which is funded for 9.5 staff.

Mr. Swann was asked about staffing levels by Sinn Féin MLA Ciara Ferguson.

"In addition to the medical (ophthalmology) workforce, need is also met by deployment of multidisciplinary teams within the Trust ophthalmology service, and by integrated care pathways involving community optometrists.

"This strategic direction is demonstrated, e.g. by the use of optometrists, orthoptists, and advanced nurse practitioners in Trust macula, glaucoma, and other specialist clinics,” said the minister.

Related topics:Robin SwannWestern TrustRecruitmentFoyle

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