07 January 2021
Scotland Covid-19 update - PCA(O)2021(1)
In the latest PCA the Directorate of Primary Care Dentistry and Optometry Division confirms
- People can leave their home to provide or obtain ophthalmic services
- Community optometry practices “can safely remain open and provide a full range of services. This is in line with the approach being taken with other primary care and screening services”
The PCA also reiterates the importance of
- adhering to rigorous IPC measures
- reviewing current triage and pre-appointment screening processes
- prioritising essential and emergency care over more routine services and that those at “greatest risk of detriment to sight or wellbeing should be seen first”
- practitioners to “continue to exercise their own professional judgement when determining whether it is clinically appropriate and necessary for a patient to be seen face-to-face”
The Scottish Government has also confirmed that practices will now continue to receive a ‘top up’ payment provided they deliver 20% of historical activity in January.
The PCA also confirms that
- all GOS contractors will be contacted by their local NHS Board and all practice staff will be offered a Covid-19 vaccination
- in terms of access schools, community optometrists in Scotland are category 2 key workers, and all other practice staff are category 3 key workers. This however does not automatically guarantee a place
Members in Scotland are advised to read the latest PCA in full.

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