03 September 2021

FODO member update – 3 September

This week:

• Wales confirms uplift to GOS fees
• New PCA - Scotland GOS
• Warning over NHS funding in England
• First Deafblind Convention 7 October
• College of Optometrists encourages parents to book sight test
• Building a case for an optimal glaucoma pathway

Wales confirms uplift to GOS fees

The Welsh Government has confirmed that the GOS sight test fee will increase to £21.71. This will be backdated to 1 April 2021. For NHS domiciliary visits carried out on or after 1 April 2021, the fee is £38.27 for the first and second patients seen at one visit and £9.58 for the third and subsequent visits. CET grants will also increase to £584. There is no change to voucher funding. Read more.  

New PCA - Scotland GOS

The latest PCA in Scotland states physical distancing in community optometry practices can be reduced in some areas from two metres to one metre. It also clarifies self-isolation advice for practice teams and the appropriate use of PPE. Finally, it reminds all GOS practitioners to complete their mandatory training by Sunday 31 October 2021. Members in Scotland are advised to read the full PCA.

The College of Optometrists responded to the change in physical distancing requirements by highlighting the benefits of improved patient flow and the increased number of patients able to access eye care. However, it also stressed the importance of continuing to follow robust IPC procedures. 

Warning over NHS funding in England

The NHS Confederation and NHS Providers have warned that millions of patients risk ongoing delays if Covid-19 recovery plans are not sufficiently funded. The organisations are calling for an extra £10 billion of revenue funding in the next fiscal year, with 35-45% to manage care backlogs. The funding is needed because frontline staff are still coping with Covid-19 and the new patients it has created in terms of long Covid and mental health. 

First Deafblind Convention 7 October

Deafblind UK will host the UK's first virtual Deafblind Convention on 7 October. The event will bring together people living with sight and hearing loss with those who have a professional or academic interest in the field. The event is free to join and is available to book online. Learn more and take part. 

College of Optometrists encourages parents to book sight test

The College of Optometrists has highlighted key signs to detect potential issues in a child's vision. With College research showing that 23% of parents have never taken their child for a sight test, Daniel Hardiman-McCartney FCOptom, Clinical Adviser for The College of Optometrists, said: "Taking children for a sight test can be crucial" in detecting sight and vision problems early on. He added: "Whether or not you suspect an issue with your child's vision, it's always important to get the health of their eyes checked and follow the advice of your optometrist." 

Building a case for an optimal glaucoma pathway

With a growing number of patients waiting for ophthalmology appointments, Pharmafield reports on building a case for an optimal glaucoma pathway.