The College of Optometrists

Modernising the regulation of healthcare professionals is costly and the GOC plays a vital role in maintaining standards and ensuring that those few professionals who fall below them are dealt with fairly and firmly. The College recognise the increased workload and costs the GOC faces and the need for a fair and proportionate regulator. However, with hindsight it would have been better if the GOC had increased the retention fee annually, in line with inflation, as this is a big hit at a time of economic downturn, exacerbated for our members by the GOC’s decision to introduce a differential fee system.  The reduction in the fees announced for dispensing opticians is an interim measure and a longer term policy has not been agreed. The College remains supportive of keeping the registration system as simple as possible; the existing flat fee structure is a balance between practicality and fairness.

 

The substantial increase in retention fees presents a significant financial burden for optometrists. In light of the current economic climate, and in order to help mitigate this anticipated fee increase, the College’s Council agreed in June that our own core subscription fees should not be raised this year. This has required very tight budgeting to ensure that the College can continue to deliver our own objectives for the year ahead.