When should I consider referring a patient with BRAO to a specialist, and what information should I include in the referral?

The provided UK guideline excerpts do not contain specific information regarding when to refer a patient with branch retinal artery occlusion to a specialist, nor what information should be included in such a referral.

However, the guidelines do discuss urgent referrals for other ophthalmic conditions. For instance, urgent referral to ophthalmology assessment and investigations is recommended for suspected age-related macular degeneration (AMD), ideally within 1 week ². This is particularly important if the patient presents with visual distortion (metamorphopsia) or rapid-onset visual loss, as these symptoms may indicate neovascular AMD, for which prompt treatment can improve visual outcomes ¹,².

For corneal superficial injuries, immediate referral to ophthalmology is recommended for penetrating ocular injuries or chemical burns after copious irrigation ³. Referral is also advised if a foreign body cannot be safely removed in primary care, or if a rust ring is present ³.