An estimated one million intravitreal injections are now administered each year in England to treat retinal conditions, with the vast majority delivered by trained non-medical practitioners. The West of England Eye Unit in Exeter became the first eye unit in the UK, and possibly the world, to introduce a service in which non-medical staff administered these injections. This pioneering development took place in 2018, just one year after anti-VEGF therapy was introduced in the UK.
Intravitreal anti-VEGF injections have since become a cornerstone of treatment for a range of common sight-threatening retinal conditions, including wet age-related macular degeneration, diabetic retinal disease and retinal vein occlusion.
Under the supervision of Mr Simcock, the first injection in Exeter was administered by Brian Kingett, a senior nurse practitioner. At the time, this innovative approach faced considerable resistance from regulatory bodies, pharmaceutical companies and some consultant ophthalmologists, many of whom were understandably cautious about this new model of care.
However, as patient numbers continued to rise and with a limited number of qualified ophthalmologists, the need for a sustainable alternative became clear. Developing a service led by trained non-medical practitioners offered a practical solution to maintaining timely access to treatment and reducing the risk of avoidable sight loss.
The safety and effectiveness of the Exeter model were supported by an audit of the first 2,000 injections, presented by Mr Simcock at the World Congress of Eye Hospitals, hosted by Moorfields in 2011. This evidence helped establish the credibility and safety of the approach and contributed to its widespread adoption across the UK.
Today, non-medical practitioners play a central role in delivering intravitreal injection services throughout the country, reflecting the enduring influence of the pioneering work undertaken in Exeter.
To mark the service’s 18th anniversary, the West of England Eye Unit team recently organised a surprise celebration in honour of Mr Simcock and his contribution to this transformation in retinal care. The occasion was made particularly special by the presence of Brian Kingett, bringing together two key figures in the development of the service. As a lasting tribute to Mr Simcock’s vision and leadership, two of the unit’s injection rooms were officially named in his honour.
This anniversary celebrates far more than 18 years of a successful local service. It recognises a pioneering initiative that helped reshape the delivery of retinal care across the UK and now in many countries worldwide. It demonstrates how innovation, clinical leadership and the commitment of a dedicated multidisciplinary team can improve access to treatment and help protect patients’ sight.
https://www.exmouthjournal.co.uk/news/25615656.consultant-celebrated-royal-devon-exeter-hospital/
