How can optometry maintain patient trust and uphold the integrity of the profession when it is seeing clinical pathways evolve? When independent prescribing is rising? When extended optometrists’ roles span primary and secondary care settings, and trusteeship and consultancy positions within the pharmaceutical industry?

One answer is to identify and appropriately address actual and perceived conflicts of interest. 

According to the General Optical Council (GOC), conflicts of interest can arise when someone’s judgement is influenced or perceived to be influenced by a personal, financial or other interest. If not appropriately managed, this may result in patients receiving care not in their best interest. Examples can range from providers giving a preferred service to repeat customers – which may sway patient referral choices – to manufacturers or company representatives treating practice owners to lunch or trips abroad, which may shape attitudes in favour of their products.