20 April 2022

Transition to Green Phase

Infectious diseases Public health

In conjunction with each UK Nation’s health system and government public health bodies, optometry practices are expected to move to “Green” phase in early May 2022.

From that point, the COVID-19 Amber phase guidance will no longer apply. Practices should now start planning to revert to following the College’s Guidance for Professional Practice only. We will alert members when the announcements are made.

This does not, however, mean a return to practice or business as it was before the pandemic. The Guidance for Professional Practice has been updated to incorporate the latest public health infection prevention and control recommendations so optometrists can continue to provide eye care safely and effectively to their patients as part of a “new normal”.     

We will provide further information and resources to explain how the move to Green phase will affect optical practices in the coming weeks.

This article was correct at time of publication. 

Related news

We have responded to the GOC's consultation on testing of sight and delegation
Consultations Policy Public health Workforce

The College responds to the GOC’s thematic review of commercial practices and patient safety
Policy Public health

Help spread awareness of contact lens safety this Fright Night
Contact lenses Public health

Related further reading

The hidden dangers of papilloedema

Papilloedema in its early stages isn’t always easy to spot – and the consequences of getting it wrong can be catastrophic. Steve Smethurst asks: how should optometrists approach diagnosis and referral?

Children Public health

The machinery of choice

Understanding patient psychology will enable more satisfying consultation experiences – and more appropriate treatment outcomes, says Carina Bailey.

Cataract Dispensing Public health

Consider all options

Reflecting on practice in a time of pandemic.

Public health