19 June 2025
Sector bodies behind the bespoke quality assurance toolkit, Quality in Optometry (QiO), are calling on practitioners across England who use the service to take part in a survey.
The survey aims to provide those who manage QiO with a better understanding of the experiences of those using the online tool. While the toolkit has been regularly updated over the years, those who oversee the tool have highlighted that it is now due for an upgrade.
Designed by the sector bodies, QiO was launched in 2007, moving online in 2010, and aims to support the clinical governance of practices providing General Ophthalmic Services.
Throughout 2025 and 2026, sector bodies, including the AOP, The College of Optometrists, the Association of British Dispensing Opticians and the Federation of Optometrists and Dispensing Opticians, will work alongside the Local Optical Committee Support Unit (LOCSU) to review the QiO offering and “inform the development of a future platform next year.”
The bodies start this process with a three-week consultation to gain an understanding of the experiences of those using QiO.During this period stakeholders confirmed that QiO will remain active, and the platform will be updated to reflect the new NHS Standard contract in the coming months.
The survey, which should take less than five minutes to complete, closes on Sunday 6 July. It can be taken by clicking here.
Encouraging AOP members to take part in the survey, Dr Peter Hampson, director of clinical and policy at the AOP, said it “presents a great opportunity to ensure that this next iteration of QiO is fit for the future and that product improvements are made where necessary.”
He told OT: “The current compliance tool, which was created by sector bodies including the AOP, has been essential to ensure that we minimise the unfunded burden on contractors. By completing this survey, contractors can ensure that QiO stays true to that aim in the coming years.”
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