Sunshine Coast Health Launches First Local Corneal Crosslinking Service: An Australian First in Nurse-Led Ophthalmic Care
News from our associate member Sunshine Coast Health
In November 2025, the Sunshine Coast Health (SCH) Ophthalmology Department commenced its first corneal service for local patients. This new service focuses on treating keratoconus—a sight-threatening condition affecting approximately 1 in 84 Australians. Keratoconus is managed using a one-hour procedure known as corneal crosslinking, a highly effective treatment that can prevent the need for more complex interventions such as corneal grafting.
An Australian First in Nurse-Led Ophthalmology
This initiative represents Australia’s first nurse-led ophthalmology corneal crosslinking service. Previously, this procedure was performed solely by ophthalmic medical officers. SCH’s model follows in the footsteps of world-leading ophthalmic hospitals, including Moorfields Eye Hospital in London and the Royal Eye and Ear Hospital in Dublin.
Ophthalmology CNC team (from left to right) Ms Gillian Matthews, Ms Blessel Villa and Mr Mark Crocker
Demonstration of a patient work up for Corneal crosslinking (left) Demonstration of a patient during corneal crosslinking procedure (Right)
At the time of writing, Ophthalmology Clinical Nurse Consultants (CNCs) have completed five procedures under the supervision of Corneal Consultant Dr Nicholas York. By 2026, the CNC team will be fully credentialed to perform corneal crosslinking independently.
Improving Local Access to Specialist Care
Until now, Sunshine Coast patients requiring corneal procedures have needed to travel to Brisbane for treatment. The introduction of this corneal service marks the beginning of SCH’s broader plan to expand its ophthalmology offerings and provide more comprehensive care close to home.
This development also highlights the power of a multidisciplinary approach to healthcare. By enabling highly skilled nursing staff to lead this service, medical officers are freed to focus on more complex cases, ensuring timely and effective care for all patients.
Ophthalmology CNCs Mr Mark Crocker, Ms Gillian Matthews, and Ms Blessel Villa will manage patient consent, conduct pre-procedure information calls, perform the corneal crosslinking treatment, and complete the initial postoperative review four days after the procedure. Ophthalmology Pharmacist Ms Teisha Doherty will also play a vital role by providing essential post-procedure medication education, further supporting patient safety and treatment outcomes.
Acknowledgements
The CNC team extends its sincere thanks to Queensland Health’s Health Improvement Unit (HIU) for their invaluable support in sponsoring this project. Without their backing, this initiative would not have been possible.
Appreciation is also offered to the World Association of Eye Hospitals (WAEH) and Nurse Diana Malata for providing the inspiration that helped spark the development of this service.
The team additionally acknowledges former Director of Ophthalmology Dr David Squirrell for approving the creation of this nurse-led clinic and expresses deep gratitude to Dr Nicholas York for his guidance, belief, and commitment to supporting nurses to work at the top of their scope of practice.
Corneal Crosslinking team with Pharmacist Teisha Doherty and Corneal Specialist Consultant Dr Nicholas York.