What is Ophthalmology?
Ophthalmology is the study of medical conditions related to the eye. Ophthalmologists are doctors who care for patients with eye conditions.
They diagnose, treat and prevent disorders of the eyes and visual system, using medical and surgical skills. They treat conditions such as
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Literature on this site is for information purposes only, please do not use it to self-diagnose or any form of self-treatment. We recommend that you see a registered healthcare professional for diagnosis and treatment plan.
Examples of tests done in Ophthalmology
A doctor will look into your eyes using an ophthalmoscope to check for general eye health and physical signs of disease.
A visual acuity test is an eye exam that checks how well you see the details of a letter or symbol from a specific distance.
This is a test to measure the pressure inside your eyes. The test is used to screen for glaucoma. It is also used to measure how well glaucoma treatment is working.
A slit lamp is a microscope with a bright light used during an eye exam. It gives your doctor a closer look at the different structures at the front of the eye and inside the eye.
It’s a key tool in determining the health of your eyes and detecting eye disease. Eye drops are applied to the eyes and a microscope is used to look at the retina and optic nerve.
This is a non invasive imaging method to look at the back of the eye to diagnose and manage diseases like diabetic retinopathy and glaucoma.
A fluorescein angiogram looks at the blood vessels and the lining at the back of your eye (the retina). This test can pick up changes in the condition of your eyes. It can help the specialist make a diagnosis or tell them how well treatment is working.
This test involves Fluorescein dye being injected into your veins which allows the doctor to look at the blood vessels in the eye more clearly.
The consultant will ask you to describe your symptoms and concerns and take a medical history.
The consultant will carry out an appropriate physical examination.
The consultant will arrange appropriate tests and investigations such as blood tests and imaging.
Is Virtually expensive to use?
For instant access to high quality, regulated healthcare the costs of the service are very reasonable. Our service is linked to healthcare insurance providers and your medical care from Virtually maybe covered by your health insurance. Interest free payment plans are also available.
Do my NHS records get transferred to Virtually?
No. However, to provide Virtually clinicians as much information as possible to provide you with the best care possible, we would ask you to allow us to have temporary electronic access to your medical records. We will give you simple instructions on how to give our clinicians access if needed.
Is Virtually right for me?
Virtually is a great service for anyone who doesn’t currently have a GP or who struggles to get an appointment with their existing NHS GP. The app is built for people of all ages and backgrounds. If you like the idea of speaking to a clinician online from the comfort of your own home or workplace then use Virtually. We have online appointments available Monday to Sunday. You won’t be giving up the ability to see your own GP. Any virtually consultation will be forwarded to your NHS GP.
Can I choose whether I speak with a male or female clinician?
Yes. Not only can you choose whether your clinician is male or female, but you can also choose the specific person you wish to speak with. We’ll display a list of the available clinicians, and you can choose the doctor or nurse you want to speak to. That means if they are available you can speak to the same clinician every time.
Is the service secure?
All of the personal or sensitive information we hold about you is protected by encryption and held in secure UK-based data centres. We ask you to not share the password to your Virtually account with anyone to ensure the security of your account.
How does it work when things can’t be done digitally?
Sometimes we may need to see you in person. For example, for vaccinations, smear tests or to carry out an appropriate physical examination. If we need to see you in person, we’ll ask you to book an in-person appointment by calling or emailing our patient support team.
Can you refer me to a hospital near me?
If you need to be seen at a hospital our doctors will refer you to any NHS or private hospital in England of your choice (although most patients choose a hospital near their home or workplace).
Do I have to switch from my current GP?
No. Virtually is not an NHS service. We will liaise with your current GP with your permission to ensure your NHS medical records are kept up to date.
Where is your clinic?
If you do need to see a doctor in person, our specialists see patients both in consulting rooms and at private hospitals in and around London.
How long are the appointments?
Unlike most GP appointment slots which are 10 minutes. Virtually appointments are at least 30 minutes long allowing enough time to address the nature of your condition or symptoms.
How soon can I get an appointment?
We have clinicians available within an hour for digital appointments. In-person appointments may be a slightly longer wait.
How do prescriptions work?
A private prescription will be sent to you online, within one hour of your consultation.
Who are the clinicians?
Our team of clinicians are made of GPs, Pharmacists, Physicians Assistants and Nurses, all of whom are employed by Virtually. All our clinicians are UK based with some working remotely.
Can I see you face to face?
For some conditions we may request to see you in person at our clinic. You are always welcome to book a face-to-face appointment with our team if you wish, however you may have to wait slightly longer for in-person appointments than you do for digital appointments.
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