A National Vision Helpline Answered By Experienced Ophthalmic Nurses

Establishing a national helpline offering trusted eye‑care guidance from experienced ophthalmic nurses. Developed in response to unmet needs for an easily accessible service identified by the Norwegian Association of the Blind and Partially sighted. 

A national helpline operated by the Department of Ophthalmology, Haukeland University hospital Bergen, Norway.

The helpline is open one day each week and staffed by experienced ophthalmic nurses who have received additional training in available vision‑rehabilitation services, and the various support programmes offered by the patient organization. Callers remain anonymous, and data are collected solely for statistical purposes and service improvement. Variables recorded include the number of callers, call duration, age group, health region, diagnostic category, and how callers learned about the service. 

The project is a collaboration between the Norwegian Association of the Blind and Partially sighted and the Department of Ophthalmology, Haukeland University hospital, and is funded by the pharmaceutical companies Bayer AS and Roche AS.

A reliable, anonymous eye‑care helpline was established, offering weekly access for patients, relatives and healthcare professionals. From 08.03.25–31.12.25, callers were 81% patients, 13% relatives and 6% professionals; most were retirees, followed by working‑age adults. Calls ranged from 2–60 minutes, and AMD was the most frequent diagnosis group. Nurses reported that the service was meaningful and allowed time to listen to patients’ concerns.

Collaboration between the patient organization and ophthalmic professionals has created a valued, anonymous and easily accessible helpline. It is highly appreciated by patients, and nurses find it a meaningful and socially valuable way to share ophthalmic expertise.