Novartis and NHS Ayrshire & Arran launch new eye care facility in Scotland

Novartis Pharmaceuticals UK and NHS Ayrshire & Arran have announced the launch of a new facility designed specifically for people suffering from some of the most common forms of avoidable sight loss.

Based in University Hospital Ayr, Scotland, the facility is set to support the delivery of a one-stop clinic for patients.

The new facility is expected to transform the patients’ eye service by building an extension on to the existing Ophthalmology Outpatient Department.

University Hospital Ayr consultant ophthalmologist Dr Mohan Varikkara said: "The new extension is a much welcome addition to our busy service. We know the numbers of people requiring macular treatment is increasing as people are living longer.

"By utilising an outcomes-based approach, we are able to deliver greater accessibility and sustainability of care for patients."

"This new extension and additional staff will ensure we are able to treat more patients and offer us the ability to provide an intravitreal therapy service that prevents eye degeneration and potential sight loss."

The companies have carefully planned to design requirements of this new facility to create a comfortable environment for patients and staff.

The primary focus was on accessibility, patient flow throughout the clinic and improving patient experience, particularly for visually impaired people.

Novartis Pharmaceuticals UK managing director and chief scientific officer Dimitrios Georgiopoulos said: "This partnership is part of Novartis’ ongoing commitment to work with the NHS to understand and address the challenges facing eye care services across the UK.