As the Orthoptic team we aspire to provide our patients with compassionate and individualised care by diagnosing and managing disorders of binocular vision effectively using evidence-based practice. We strive to create a pleasant, respectful and supportive environment for our patients and colleagues.
Orthoptics is one of the allied health professions, and orthoptists are key members of the eye care team. We investigate, diagnose and treat disorders of binocular single vision (e.g. squints) and problems concerning reduced vision in younger children. This can be due to amblyopia (lazy eye) and/or the need for glasses.
Orthoptists also assess abnormal eye movements. Patients with eye movement problems may complain of seeing diplopia (double vision).
Our work involves seeing patients of all ages from infants to the elderly and may include treating patients with prisms, glasses, eye exercises or patches.
The Low Visual Aid (LVA) clinic is aimed at helping patients with visual difficulties or a visual impairment. A full assessment is carried out by a qualified Orthoptist trained in Low Vision to determine whether a magnifying device is beneficial and which magnifier is the most appropriate.
We have a wide range of magnifying devices which are issued on loan from the hospital. Advice on lighting, contrast and other resources and services available in the area is also provided.
Bradford Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust has a dedicated eye clinic liaison officer (ECLO), Iftekhar Ahmed, who can provide advice and support for anyone affected by sight loss on topics that can make life easier. They include:
- maintaining your independence
- equipment and technology that can help you do the things you need to do
- eye condition and treatment understanding
- access to education, employment, and leisure
- benefits and concessions that you may be entitled to
Iftekhar can be found in the Ophthalmology Department and can be contacted on 01274 382 045 or on email at: Iftekhar.Ahmed@rnib.org.uk
For more information on RNIB’s Sight Loss Advice Service, please visit www.rnib.org.uk/advice
Approximately 7,000 outpatients are seen at BRI each year, and a further 3,000 at Airedale and Skipton. We also see approximately 6,000 children across Bradford and Keighley each year as part of our school screening programme.
Waiting times vary according to clinical need.
Our talented and compassionate staff care for a diverse population, making Bradford a special place to work. Choosing the right people is key to our success. If you think you’ve got what it takes, please contact us by email at careers@bthft.nhs.uk to discover more about our latest opportunities.
