Position statements
We represent your voice on a wide range of issues in optics. Our in-depth papers on sight test fees, child eye care and CPD grants highlight our position on some of the issues that affect optometrists and help to improve patient care.
Please visit our policy information for members section for additional context for members on the issues discussed in our public-facing position statements.
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Why we believe DHSC and NHS England need to provide explicit national guidance requiring ICBs to exempt eye care services in order to prevent inconsistent local interpretation and to protect the ability of primary eye care to reduce pressure on GPs and A&E
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Why we have developed five policy principles to ensure current vision standards for driving are implemented, and working for the public – requiring small changes to existing legislation that would have a considerable impact to make our roads safer for all
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Why we believe patient care will be improved if a revised list of exemptions is adopted, enabling optometrists and dispensing opticians in the UK to supply a range of up-to-date medications
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Why we believe integrated care boards (ICBs) need to embrace optometry to deliver eye care services that meet the needs of local people, are high quality, and value for money
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Why we believe utilising the optometric workforce can improve the way in which glaucoma care is delivered to patients in England, and could save the NHS £90 million per year in glaucoma care in 2030
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Why we believe that improved IT connectivity needs to be a priority for the Government and NHS England to cut avoidable patient referrals between primary and secondary eye care
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Why we believe that optometry practices with effective IT connectivity are best placed to provide primary eye care including imaging and repeat measures in the community, and that community diagnostic hubs should focus on other clinical areas of need
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A national strategy for eye care is essential to tackle the challenges in ophthalmology
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Our position on the clinical evidence and advice relating to visible blue light - Updated August 2023
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Joint statement from the AOP, RCOphth and COO