DVLA confirms removal of notifiable eye conditions from list, following AOP concerns
The change comes after the AOP highlighted that extended list of notifiable eye conditions could apply to almost every driver who receives a sight test
The Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) has confirmed to the Association of Optometrists (AOP) that it has agreed to revise its list of notifiable eye conditions.
In a response to a letter sent by the AOP, a DVLA spokesperson said, “After careful consideration, we have put steps in place to remove the list of eyesight conditions on GOV.UK, so that we can review whether it is appropriate for drivers to notify DVLA of certain eyesight conditions.”
The DVLA confirmed to the AOP that this action will be taken “imminently.”
“We intend on consulting with the SoS Medical Advisory Panel on Visual disorders and driving in the coming weeks,” they explained.
The DVLA added that it “welcomed the opportunity” to work with the AOP to refine the list further.
Responding to the move, AOP Chief Executive, Adam Sampson said: “It is right that the DVLA has listened and responded to the serious concerns we raised, which highlighted that the DVLA’s extended list of notifiable eye conditions could apply to almost every driver who receives a sight test. We have extended an offer to work with the DVLA to utilise the skills available in optometry to deliver an improved service for patients.”
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For more information, please contact Serena Box, PR and Media Manager, at the Association of Optometrists, [email protected] or telephone 020 7549 2040.
Notes to Editors
Association of Optometrists
The Association of Optometrists (AOP) is the leading representative membership organisation for optometrists in the UK. We support over 82% of practising optometrists, to fulfil their professional roles to protect the nation’s eye health. For more information, visit www.aop.org.uk