Improving healthcare access for people with visual impairment and blindness

Visual impairment can have adverse consequences for health and wellbeing, and its prevalence is increasing, especially among older people People with visual impairment are likely to have limited access to information and healthcare facilities, and to receive sub-optimal treatment because staff are unaware of specific needs related to vision Being aware that people may have problems with vision is an important pre-requisite for good healthcare Taking time to communicate effectively about access, facilities, diagnosis, and management plans is necessary; communications, in visual or audio format, should be tailored to individuals' needs Checking that personal resources are in place to facilitate compliance with treatment plans is essential for good clinical care