Optical sector submits evidence to health inquiry

The optical sector has submitted evidence ahead of the Health Select Committee’s inquiry into primary care.

Almost 200 pieces of evidence were submitted ahead of the inquiry from individuals and organisations, including the Optical Confederation (OC), Devon Local Optical Committee and the Clinical Council for Eye Health Commissioning.

The OC, of which the AOP is a founding member, provided a combined submission with the Local Optical Committee Support Unit, outlining optometry as “an under-recognised part of the primary care workforce.” The evidence also highlights the need to increase the number of optometrists trained as independent prescribers and a need to develop frameworks to encourage development of community eye services.

Other organisations submitting evidence included the Department of Health, the National Community Hearing Association, General Pharmacy Council and Walgreens Boots Alliance, which owns Boots Opticians.

The inquiry will consider the quality and standards of care for patients, the demand for and access of services, as well as funding and commissioning, among other topics.

The committee expects to hear oral evidence in October and November. Full evidence is available on the parliament website.