Code of Practice
| 1. OVERALL OBJECTIVE |
| All ELA members to provide an excellent standard of laser eye treatment, provided in a safe and ethical manner and with accurate information, with the aim of achieving the very best clinical results. |
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| 2. ADVERTISING |
- To only use honest and decent advertising
- Advertising to be honest and decent, adhering to the guidelines laid down by the Advertising Standards Authority.
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| 3. ASSESSMENT & ADVICE |
.- To provide a thorough eye examination and to identify any contra-indications to treatment.
- An examination of the health of the eyes to ensure that laser treatment is only offered to patients who are suitable for the procedure. All persons who are not found to be good candidates for eye laser treatment whether for ophthalmic or other health reasons will be advised they can not proceed.
- Pre-surgery screening
- Investigations to establish whether a patient is suitable for laser treatment to be performed by competent members of staff, and the findings analysed by a trained professional member of the clinical team. The ultimate decision on suitability is made by the treating surgeon.
- Comprehensive advice to patients
- Full verbal advice to be given at consultation, along with written explanations both prior to, and at, the consultation.
- To allow all suitable candidates complete freedom to decide.
- All those attending consultation will have no obligation to proceed and be given adequate time to discuss their decision with their family and friends.
- Informed consent obtained
- The Consent Form is to be issued prior to the day of treatment. This Consent Form to be signed by both surgeon and patient on the day of treatment, and the patient allowed ample time and opportunity to read and ask any questions of the surgeon performing the treatment.
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| 4. RESULTS |
| Statistical information relating to results and the incidence of side-effects and complications must be provided to patients considering treatment |
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| 5. PREMISES |
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Premises registered with Healthcare Commission
- All laser eye treatment premises are registered with, and regularly inspected by, the Healthcare Commission.
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| 6. EQUIPMENT |
- Fully maintained and calibrated laser equipment
- Lasers maintained and calibrated to manufacturer's specifications. Maintenance records inspected by the National Care Standards Commission at their regular inspections.
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| 7. TREATING SURGEONS |
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Treatments carried out by qualified Doctors registered with the United Kingdom General Medical Council (UK GMC), who have specifically trained in laser eye surgery
- As a minimum standard all surgeons to be passed as competent in performing laser surgery either by their past experience and references or by internal training and assessment by an experienced laser eye surgeon.
- All ELA members will provide treatments consistent with current accepted professional practice.
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| 8. AFTERCARE |
- Comprehensive aftercare provided to the point of discharge
- Aftercare to be inclusive in the fees for all patients, and patients able to return to see a clinical member of staff whenever necessary.
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