Patients have a right to have their prescriptions dispensed where they choose. You may advise your patients of the potential difficulties of separate prescribing and dispensing, particularly if they have a complicated prescription or lens form. The College has a suggested form of words which members may wish to use on their prescriptions. If you wish to use this, please use the statement in its entirety, rather than selected phrases:

'You have a right to have your prescription dispensed wherever you choose. However, as prescribing and dispensing of spectacles are closely linked it is best to have your spectacles dispensed where you have your eyes examined. It is often more difficult to resolve any problems you may have with your spectacles when prescribing and supply are separated.'

If you receive a prescription for dispensing from another practitioner and there is an anomaly or a complaint of non-tolerance after dispensing, you should, with the patient’s consent, contact the prescribing practitioner. You should agree a course of action with them and the patient.