Hundreds of residents in Dumfries and Galloway have been positively impacted by a life-changing service aimed at assisting those experiencing sight loss. Over the past two years, Fiona Ettle, an eye care liaison officer (ECLO), has been instrumental in helping individuals come to terms with their conditions and reclaim their lives. This service is a collaboration between NHS Dumfries and Galloway and the sight loss charity RNIB Scotland. In the initial year alone, almost 300 patients and 200 family members received essential support from the programme. Fiona expressed, “We act as a ‘bridge’ between health and social care for people with reduced vision. Being informed about sight loss can be frightening, but our aim is to provide emotional reassurance and practical assistance post-diagnosis and beyond.”
With an estimated 4,300 blind or partially sighted people in the region, the service plays a crucial role in alleviating pressure on other healthcare professionals within and outside the eye clinic. This often results in patients receiving immediate and continuous specialized, one-on-one support. Fiona highlighted the significance of having someone available to address concerns, guide them through available support services, and help them maintain independence. Many individuals have expressed feeling more positive and well-informed once they know where to access eye care support services promptly.
Jo Birch, the service manager at Mountainhall Treatment Centre in Dumfries, praised the ECLO service as a valuable asset to hospital eye services in the area. Fiona’s support for patients with new and ongoing sight loss conditions has been pivotal in enabling individuals to retain independence and improve their quality of life. The service has also positively impacted overall operations, with reduced clinic times contributing to smoother clinic flows and decreased appointment wait times within the department.
Feedback from patients who have benefited from the service has been overwhelmingly positive, acknowledging the vital role the ECLO service plays in their journey towards acceptance and independence. The service acts as a beacon of hope for residents in Dumfries and Galloway facing sight loss, providing invaluable support and guidance during challenging times.
**Insights:**
The collaboration between NHS Dumfries and Galloway and RNIB Scotland to provide essential support for individuals facing sight loss in the region showcases the importance of holistic care in addressing healthcare needs. Fiona Ettle’s role as an eye care liaison officer exemplifies the positive impact dedicated individuals can have on improving the quality of life for patients. By bridging the gap between health and social care, services like this not only offer practical assistance but also emotional support, highlighting the significance of a comprehensive approach to healthcare. The success and positive feedback from patients underscore the vital role such services play in empowering individuals to navigate challenging health conditions and regain a sense of control and independence in their lives.