The General Optical Council (GOC) removed a total of 602 optometrists and dispensing opticians from its registers today. In addition 50 bodies corporate were removed.
Those removed include practitioners who failed to apply for retention in the registers for 2007-8, and those who failed to meet the requirements for Continuing Education and Training (CET).
Just 319 individuals were removed for failing to meet the CET requirement – less than two per cent of registrants. Registrar Peter Coe commented: “This is a fantastic result for the professions. The overwhelming majority have met CET requirements without any difficulty. Such a strong response sends a clear message to the public that optometrists and dispensing opticians are committed to keeping their knowledge and skills up to date and to maintaining the highest standards of care.”
Entries relating to a specialty were removed from the names of 15 registrants, who failed to obtain the required number of specialty CET points. They continue to be registered as non-specialists but may not carry out work or activities reserved in relation to that specialty.
Individuals who are not registered with the GOC may not practise as opticians or optometrists in the United Kingdom. Bodies corporate not on the registers may not use or associate any of the protected titles with their company names.
The list of registrants not renewed for 2007-8 is being sent to primary care organisations and professional bodies. The registration status of an individual or business can also be checked on the GOC website, www.optical.org.
Any individual or business who has been removed must restore to the register to practise. Applicants must complete the relevant form, pay the restoration fee and provide evidence of having completed the required minimum of CET in the past 12 months. Restoration forms are available from the GOC website, or from the registration team on 020 7580 3898, email superinfo@optical.org.