Question to the Department of Health and Social Care:

To ask the Secretary of State for Health and Social Care, what assessment he has made of the adequacy of optometry aftercare following (a) cataract and (b) other optometry surgeries; and if he will take steps to ensure that private providers deliver adequate aftercare after those surgeries.

Integrated care boards (ICBs) are responsible for commissioning primary and secondary eye care services in their areas, including those provided by National Health Service trusts and the independent sector.

ICBs are responsible for managing their contracts with local providers, which may include suitably qualified and equipped optometrists, and ensuring that all services are provided in line with those contracts.

NHS England produced cataract guidance in 2022, which reminded providers about their duty of care to patients undergoing eye surgery, including the requirements for post-operative care.