Age related macular degeneration – Adult
Age related macular degeneration – Adult
Emergency and immediate referrals
Referral to Emergency
Immediate referral
Presenting symptoms |
- New onset of reduced central vision and / or distortion due to neovascular (wet) age-related macular degeneration (AMD)
- Sudden drop in central vision or worsening distortion
- Significant progression of dry AMD
- NB: Dry AMD is not routinely seen unless practitioner is concerned about recent significant progression
- Acute onset distortion
|
Mandatory referral information (referral will be returned if this information is not included) |
- Best corrected visual acuity (BCVA) - vision with most recent distance spectacles
- Details and duration of treatments
- Most recent optometrist or private ophthalmologist report including:
- Visual acuity
- Refraction
- Retinal examination
- Impact of symptoms
- If unable to attach reports please include relevant information/findings in the referral
- Referrer to state reason if not able to include in referral
Note: This information is required to triage accurately, within a clinically suitable timeframe.
|
Highly desirable referral information |
- Other relevant optometrist or ophthalmologist reports/results if available and where providing it will not delay care:
- Optical coherence tomography (OCT)
|
Indicative triage category
Indicative triage category |
Cat 1
Appointment within 30 days |
- New onset of reduced central vision and/or distortion due to wet AMD
- Referral to continue treatment of wet AMD
|
Cat 2
Appointment within 90 days |
- Significant progression of dry AMD
|
Cat 3
Appointment within 365 days |
|
Excluded ophthalmology services
Referral to public ophthalmology outpatient services is not routinely accepted for the following conditions:
Condition |
Details (where applicable) |
Dry age-related macular degeneration |
Unless practitioner is concerned about progression to wet AMD |
Useful Information for referring practitioners
More information
Email: DOHSpecialistRAC@health.wa.gov.au