29 May 2020

Member alert: College of Optometrists publishes RAG table to support eye care provision in the UK

As we set out in our Covid-19 framework for primary eye care providers, members are advised to plan service provision based on the Covid-19 risk level, ideally using a RAG (Red, Amber, Green) approach.

The College of Optometrists has now helpfully just published such a RAG table for primary eye care which can be used across the UK. 

The table explains how to respond to different risk levels at national or local level, including in the delivery of face-to-face care.

There are four stages:

• Red: Covid-19 in general circulation and R is high. Lockdown may be reactivated. Face-to-face eye care for essential, urgent and emergency care only

• Amber 1: Period of sustained virus transmission, but phased reopening of society. Face-to-face eye care based on needs and/or symptoms

• Amber 2: Low sustained virus transmission. Most services open. Face-to-face eye care based on needs and/or symptoms. With providers starting to meet outstanding eye care needs as capacity permits

• Green: Post Covid-19, new normal. All eye care resumes on an open access basis.

Download the table.

As we have previously advised, it is possible that in the near future there will be more localised risk ratings and therefore more localised restrictions. For example, Cardiff might be in Red, Glasgow in Amber 2, Manchester and Belfast in Amber 1, so it is important to plan for that scenario in advance.

Members are encouraged to  keep up to date with and implement College of Optometrists' opensource Covid-19 guidance.

Please also refer to our Covid-19 resource hub, which is continually updated with resources to help you through the pandemic.

Readers might also be interested in: 

• OFNC statement - meeting essential eye care needs during the pandemic 
• OFNC statement: resumption of general dental services - implications for optical services in England 

At FODO we are open seven days a week and here to support each and every member in every way we can. Please contact us in the usual way. Email [email protected] or call 020 7298 5151.