Scottish Government relaxes physical distancing in health and care settings

The Scottish Government has confirmed that, with immediate effect, physical distancing in health and care settings (including community optometry practices) may be reduced in some areas from two meters to one metre, with exceptions as set out in the government guidance.

How will this affect optometrists?

This will help practices improve patient flow and increase the number of patients in practices. Practice staff will still need to continue to wear appropriate PPE, in particular, fluid resistant face masks. Practices will need to ensure good ventilation throughout. In the updated guidance, the Scottish Government have noted that COVID-19 is still a threat and as a result, this is not a return to pre-pandemic ‘business as usual'.

COVID-19 guidance and advice

Check our website regularly for the latest guidance, advice and resources, including:

• Guidance on optometric primary care during the pandemic, including guidance on practising during the red, amber and green phases
• in-practice resources such as posters, floor stickers and a downloadable visual acuity chart for remote consultations
• comprehensive COVID-19 FAQs, covering topics such as PPE, when to see routine patients and what to do if told to self-isolate.