GOC survey examines public perception of optometrists

The General Optical Council (GOC) has published findings from a survey of 2000 members of the public examining how they view optometrists and the profession.

The 2022 public perceptions research found that 94% of people who had received an eye test in the past two years were satisfied with their visit to the optometrist.

Across the UK, the proportion of people who would visit an optometrist first if they woke up with an eye problem was highest in Scotland (51%).

In Northern Ireland, 45% of those surveyed said an optometrist would be their first port of call, compared to 42% of Welsh respondents and 27% of English survey participants.

Close to nine out of ten (87%) of those surveyed were satisfied with the COVID-19 protections that were in place during their last visit to the optometrist.

The research found that 74% of respondents had been for a sight test in the past two years.

A minority had never had their sight tested (3%) or had their sight tested more than five years ago (8%).

Four in ten respondents (42%) said they would consider using a remote sight test if the option was available.

Among those who would not use remote services, concerns around accuracy (46%) and preferring to see someone in-person (45%) were the main factors that influenced their decision.

Director of regulatory strategy at the GOC, Steve Brooker, highlighted that public confidence and satisfaction in the profession remains high.

“It is notable that just as many people with an emergency eye problem would now seek initial care from an optician as a GP. It is encouraging to see the public recognise the ability of registrants to meet a wider range of patient needs, although clearly, for now, the picture is different across the UK,” he said.

The full report can be read on the GOC website.