13 August 2026
The AOP has shared a summary and FAQ explaining the GOC’s consultation on the proposed update to the testing of sight statement.
The AOP highlighted that the questions the consultation poses could “set the path for how optometry is delivered in the UK for the foreseeable future.”
The consultation seeks views on the GOC’s proposed draft statement on the testing of sight, which aim to provide clarity across delegation of some parts of the sight test, and separation of sight tests by time, person, and place.
GOC to consult on proposed updated statement on the testing of sight
The optical regulator hopes to support “responsible innovation” in sight test formats, provide clarity, and increase public protection
In the briefing, the AOP acknowledge that the scope of practice of optometry has changed since the writing of the GOC’s 2013 statement and the Opticians Act 1989 and therefore notes that “much of what the GOC proposes is uncontentious.”
However, the AOP has highlighted some areas of concern, including its belief that the separation of sight test components by time, person, and place “carries different and unequal risks.”
Dr Peter Hampson, clinical and policy director at the AOP, told OT: “As we have said to the GOC, separation of the sight test by time, person and place, or any combination of these factors, should not be considered as one singular risk.”
Each factor brings distinct risks requiring careful mitigation, Hampson said, adding: “When these factors are combined, the risks may increase and should be assessed accordingly.”
While the AOP said it is pleased that the GOC appears to recognise the need for additional safeguards, it suggests that some of the proposals are “unworkable.”
These proposals either shift the burden onto an optometrist in a way that would be difficult for them to control, or rely on business regulation that “until wider changes are made, is largely unenforceable,” the AOP said.
The GOC is also consulting on proposed revisions to its supervision and delegation standards in its Standards of Practice for Optometrists, Dispensing Opticians and Standards for Optical Students.
The AOP shared: “With regards to the supervision of students, we are pleased to see the GOC has heard the concerns of the sector that this group is most in need of onsite supervision.”
For instances where unregistered colleagues undertake delegated tasks, the GOC is consulting on two options: one is that an optometrist must be on the premises and in a position to intervene, while the other allows for remote supervision.
Each of these proposals presents challenges, Hampson said, commenting: “If the optometrist is not on the premises, it is currently unclear how patient safety can be assured.
“Equally, requiring optometrists to run their own clinics while simultaneously supporting colleagues who are working remotely risks placing them under unacceptable pressure,” he said.
Hampson concluded: “Any future model must demonstrate that patient safety, clinical accountability and effective supervision can be maintained in practice.”
The AOP has confirmed it will be helping members to understand the consultation and its significance for future practice, sharing: “AOP members will have a critical role to play in the process of informing our response to the GOC consultation.”
The AOP has encouraged members to respond to its call for views in the coming weeks.
The GOC consultation is open until 21 October.
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