How Regulated is the Laser Eye Surgery Industry?
Despite being relatively new in the broader timeline of modern medicine, Laser Eye Surgery has quickly become the most popular elective procedure in the world. After becoming widely available over 30 years ago, the procedure has helped tens of millions of people around the globe achieve clear vision free from the burden of glasses and contact lenses.
Its high success rate and impressive safety profile are a tribute to the ongoing development and advancement in the Laser Eye Surgery field. However, this popularity has also seen the fast growth of high-street providers.
While this has helped to make Laser Eye Surgery more accessible, regulation of the sector hasn’t been able to keep pace. This is not only a problem for the reputation of the industry, but also for the patients who could become exposed to substandard treatment as a result.
This unfortunately leaves many patients seeking follow-up care from private clinics after receiving inadequate advice or treatment elsewhere. Experienced surgeons are now calling for stronger industry regulations to ensure consistent standards of care across all providers.
Variable Standards of Care in Laser Eye Surgery
The variable standard of care in the Laser Eye Surgery field has long been demonstrated by tabloid stories, patient reviews, and even industry investigations. For example, take an investigation by the consumer group, Which?.
It found that a shocking one in three initial consultations by Laser Eye Surgery providers were deemed to have significant problems, with several clinics failing to explain the potential risks of the treatment.
‘Independent clinics, smaller chains and hospital-based providers scored the best, and high street providers came bottom, with Optical Express falling down on every visit when it came to explaining complications.’ –Which? Laser Eye Surgery report.
A Lack of Specialist Training
Such shortcomings can be due to several things, including prioritising sales over patient care. But perhaps one of the biggest problems with high-street Laser Eye Surgery is that clinics and surgeons are not subject to tight enough regulations.
In fact, surgeons are not necessarily required to have completed specialist training to perform Laser Eye Surgery. They simply need to be a registered doctor – but many experienced Laser Eye surgeons insist this isn’t enough.
The Royal College of Ophthalmologists (RCOphth) has put together a course and a certificate that covers the minimum required knowledge for performing Laser Eye Surgery. However, it’s believed that a significant number of practising surgeons have not completed this training.
The Cost of Low-Quality Care
Complications as a result of Laser Eye Surgery are relatively rare; however, it is important to be informed of all the risks associated with the condition. Moreover, substandard Laser Eye Surgery puts the patient at a higher risk of experiencing these complications.
The unfortunate truth is that the commercialisation of Laser Eye Surgery has led to some high street providers using high-pressure sales tactics to bring in business and boost their sales. As a result, it is unsurprising to consistently see some of the UK’s largest high-street chains at the bottom of the list for quality.
The initial consultation is one of the most important steps for ensuring safe and effective Laser Eye Surgery treatment. This consultation allows us to determine your suitability for treatment and create a detailed, personalised treatment plan. Unfortunately, many providers don’t take this step as seriously as it deserves.
Bringing Clinics up to Standard
When choosing a Laser Eye Surgery clinic and surgeon, it can be hard to know where to start. Hopefully, in the future, we will see the creation of an approved register for practitioners, making it easier for prospective patients to find a qualified and experienced surgeon. For the moment, however, it remains down to the individual to carry out their own research. So, how do you find a clinic and surgeon that best meets your needs?
Well, we have an abundance of researchers to help you out. However, you may wish to attend consultations at several clinics in order to find the best fit for you. And remember – your screening appointment should be extensive and thorough. Here at London Vision Clinic, you can expect around 2-3 hours of tests and examinations!
During your consultation, you should also have the risks and side effects of treatment explained to you in detail and have the opportunity to voice any concerns you may have.
Independent clinics like London Vision Clinic consistently come out on top when it comes to initial consultations, with high-street providers falling far behind.
Find out more about our comprehensive initial consultation here at London Vision Clinic.
While the industry remains unregulated, research and due diligence remain extremely important. But, once you have found the right clinic and an experienced and knowledgeable surgeon, you will finally have more peace of mind that the process will go smoothly.
If you would like to learn more about Laser Eye Surgery or learn about the qualifications of our surgeons, Book a Consultation today, or get in touch today.
