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The Data Repository Project from the Local Optical Committee Support Unit is being launched to enable a better storage and research facility. Its primary goal is to allow researchers to gain a quicker grasp of public data than the current OptoManager system allows. The new project will be handled by LOCSU, Webstar Health and Cegedim Rx which will integrate with the current OptoManager system.
The Local Optical Committee Support Unit, or LOCSU, provides practical support to Local Optical Committees in England to help them to, 'develop, negotiate and implement their local objectives in respect of primary eye care services.' They also work with other eye care organisations and charities to promote the value of good quality enhanced local eye services, which reduce avoidable sight loss. Their work looks to help make community eye care services not only accessible for the general public but also to be cost effective for the National Health Service.
The new national database project will support the case for universal commissioning of community eye services. Its main concerns will be to display local services as cost effective, as well as being a rich knowledge base for the NHS. The new platform is hoped to improve its current, outdated system and offer, 'real time, in depth comparisons,' of collected data. An ability to quickly filter anonymous data by age, ethnicity and geographic location will be of great importance for future research projects, especially when assessing disease amongst areas, cultures and other demographics.
LOCSU's expected improvements with the new DRP:
- Will support the case for universal adoption of community services by CCGs
- Strengthen the case for optometrists and opticians being more involved with primary care
- An extremely useful tool for future researchers