Clinical and regulatory

The College of Optometrists has recommended that practices follow the updated Guidance for Professional Practice and each nation’s public health advice

As of 10 May, the College of Optometrists Amber phase guidance no longer applies in UK nations

The General Optical Council has also released a set of updated statements, which now align with the College of Optometrists’ red-amber-green phase system

Head of clinical and regulatory at the AOP, Henry Leonard, considers the importance of internal referrals, and offers tips for safe clinical practice

Practices will be able to deliver care through the next phase of Government restrictions, prioritised on the basis of clinical need and ensuring PPE and infection control processes are in place

The consultation seeks feedback on the GOC’s existing COVID-19 statements and how these should apply in different phases of the pandemic

The AOP has released new guidance for members in England, covering a range of topics including routine appointments and face masks

A traffic light system for eye care, Black Lives Matter and optics, common complaints, and temporary plans to adapt the Scheme for Registration

Optometrists must use their professional judgement to decide whether a sight test or contact lens fit is necessary in order to supply spectacles or contact lenses

A joint regulatory statement signed by the GOC states that professionals may have concerns about how to care for patients in challenging circumstances