The College of Optometrists

College Response to the Foster Review of non medical regulation

 

The Government is undertaking a review, led by Andrew Foster, of the regulation of a broad range of healthcare professions, including optometry and dispensing optics. Following a recent workshop to discuss the review at which the optical profession was fully represented, the College has issued a response to the Department’s “Call for Ideas”.

 

This response argues strongly for the retention of the General Optical Council as the regulatory body for optometry, and provides evidence of the effectiveness of the regulatory framework for optometrists and dispensing opticians. 

 

The response points out that there is a low level of clinical risk in optometry, and given that only a small percentage of optical services are delivered within the NHS, the College argues that the present regulatory system is appropriate to the context, effective, and serves patients and registrants well.  

 

Andrew Foster is expected to make recommendations to the Minister regarding our future regulation by Christmas this year.