Sir, The Royal College of Ophthalmologists seeks to promote quality care for patients. To this end we have published evidence-based guidelines for the practice of cataract surgery (“BUPA takes a stand against ‘poor surgeons who charge excessive fees’,” Dec 2).

We have developed an electronic data-collection system to audit all cataract operations, including complication rates (which are extremely low). This has been rolled out in NHS units and 55,000 cataract operations were audited this way this year. We have asked for support from private medical insurers to introduce this into the independent sector but it has not been forthcoming.

We are not convinced that BUPA’s research is reliable as it is not in the public domain and may be misleading patients. The College is not “angered” by any insurance company’s plans but has concerns about any proposals that interfere with the ability of the patient to choose who they wish to consult.

BRENDA BILLINGTON
President, Royal College of Ophthalmologists

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