Universal Medicine

As the current Co-President of my university’s ophthalmology society and general practice (GP) societies, I’ve always considered whether I could marry these interests when it came to pursuing my career in medicine. Several clinicians have thought similarly, with some GPs developing an ‘extended role’ (previously known as a ‘specialist interest’) in ophthalmology. These clinicians may run specialist clinics at GP surgeries for ophthalmological complaints or work part-time as ‘hospital doctors’ whilst continuing to be a GP. Primary care is an important part of the NHS. It is the first point of contact for patients and ensures continuity of care within a healthcare system, as well as being responsible for referring and coordinating other specialist care that patients might need. GPs and eye health services (such as opticians) are the primary care services that are likely to deal with ophthalmological complaints. Despite public perceptions that community opticians just sell glasses, optici...