Claims window opens for education and training grant in England

The window for optometrists in England to claim their continuing professional development (CPD) allowance for education undertaken last year has opened.

The claims window, for education and training undertaken between 1 January and 31 December 2022, will run from 3 July until 2 November.

The claim value for this period is £596.

Optometrists and ophthalmic medical practitioners who perform general ophthalmic services (GOS) can claim a grant for CPD they have undertaken.

To be eligible, the claimant must have been on the relevant ophthalmic list for at least six months, maintained their General Optical Council registration, and performed primary ophthalmic services under a GOS contract.

In England, the allowance must be claimed through a contractor, and employees are expected, though not obligated, to claim through their employer.

Locum optometrists are advised to claim through a contractor they have previously worked for, though this also is not mandatory.

The AOP has advice and FAQs on making a claim, including tailored guidance for locum optometrists on finding contractors, and information for contractors on submitting claims.

Claims are required to be submitted through Primary Care Support England (PCSE) Online.

Performers need to be registered with the correct roles on PCSE Online and complete their section before the contractor signs and submits the claim.

The AOP is waiting for confirmation on the process for claiming CPD payment in Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland.