Avoid referring to specialist healthcare services if the condition cannot be treated, does not require active follow-up, or if the patient does not want or is not motivated for treatment

Rationale:

Optometrists play a clear gatekeeping role in ensuring timely access to specialist healthcare services for those who need it, while also shielding specialist services from unnecessary tasks. The Ophthalmological Society has emphasized that a patient's motivation for treatment, such as in the case of cataracts, is important when deciding whether a referral should be made.