The role of pachymetry in primary care as a refinement tool of ocular hypertension and glaucoma referrals

In April 2009, the National Institute of Clinical Excellence (NICE) issued guidelines on the diagnosis, monitoring and treatment of glaucoma and ocular hypertension (OHT).1 The publication of these guidelines has resulted in a large national increase of referrals with OHT or suspect chronic open angle glaucoma (COAG) beyond the 28% predicted by NICE.2 Our own referrals have increased by 91.2%. Optometrists complying with legal advice are recommended …