Scotland

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Free sight tests for all

Optometry Scotland has warmly welcomed the introduction of free eye examinations for everyone in Scotland on 1^st April.  The traditional NHS “sight test”, primarily designed for those who require spectacles, has been replaced by a comprehensive eye examination appropriate to a patient’s needs, symptoms and general health and which may not necessarily include a sight test for spectacles.  The new examination is free at point of use to all patients, whereas previously certain categories of patients were required to pay for the old sight test.

OS Chairman Hal Rollason said: “Everyone in Scotland will benefit from this service and will be able to access eyecare that is appropriate to their needs in a setting as close to their home as possible. Optometry will be the pivotal point of a redesigned service working with ophthalmologists and orthoptists in hospital, and GPs and social workers in the community. This is truly a world-class service for the benefit of everyone. This new eye examination will be the launch pad for many other developments over the next few years which push Scotland to the forefront, working towards the VISION 2020 declaration of eliminating avoidable blindness by the year 2020”.

In October 2005 the Scottish Executive Health Department, in agreement with OS, announced the introduction, by 2007, of free NHS eye examinations for everyone in Scotland . This now places optometry firmly within the NHS as the principal provider of eyecare  by expanding the role and services that optometrists can provide in a community setting.

FAQs on new contract

Download here

It will take a while for us all to fully understand the implications of the new GOS Regulations and there will be a steep learning curve in the first few weeks. I have tried on the attached to answer some of the questions about the new contract that I have been asked recently and hope that this will assist you. In some cases, there is no “correct” answer; in others the position is not wholly clear. OS will continue to negotiate with the SEHD and will try to resolve any anomalies that are brought to our attention. Please keep checking the FAQs as some advice may change.

Hal Rollason, Chairman

New GOS regulations

The New GOS Regulations have now been published as Statutory Instrument 135.

Download it here.

Optometry Scotland is a Scottish national body with representation from the main associations for optometrists and dispensing opticians in Scotland. Every area optometric committee in Scotland is also represented. It was formed to present a united voice to the Scottish Executive Health Department (SEHD), politicians, media and other stakeholders.

You can visit Optometry Scotland's website here.