16 July 2026
The General Optical Council (GOC) has launched a 14-week consultation on its draft updated statement on the testing of sight.
The consultation, which can be found on the optical regulator’s online consultation hub, is also seeking views on draft revisions to standards for supervision and delegation.
A GOC press release highlighted that the consultation addresses two key issues: delegation of some parts of the sight test, and separation of the sight test by time, person or place.
The optical regulator confirms within the draft statement that the optometrist may delegate some parts of the sight test to a suitably trained person.
However, the optometrist should remain in overall control of the process and oversee the tasks being carried out.
In relation to separation of the sight test, the GOC proposes a broad regulatory framework within which “registrants can choose to innovate responsibly.”
The draft statement also sets out a series of safeguards to protect patients.
GOC director of regulatory strategy, Steve Brooker, noted that sight testing has changed significantly since the last position statement was published in 2013.
“We’re bringing it up to date to reflect modern clinical practice,” he said.
“Our position on delegation reflects expert consensus that certain pre- and post-screening checks can be effectively and safely delegated, as commonly happens now, freeing up optometrists to focus on clinical decision-making and patient care,” Brooker shared.
Brooker emphasised that sight tests must include both eye health and vision checks.
“This feature of the sight testing regime throughout the UK delivers tremendous public health benefits, which we are determined to maintain,” he said.
“Listening to what professionals, patients, and others have told us has shaped our thinking and we’re now ready to test our proposals. Responding to the consultation is your chance to tell us what you think about these important issues,” Brooker shared.
Submissions to the consultation can be made online until 21 October 2026.
Comments (0)
You must be logged in to join the discussion. Log in