03 March 2023

FODO member update – 3 March

This week:

• Federation of Optometrists and Dispensing Opticians
• Northern Ireland confirms 2022/2023 GOS fees
• OFNC issues statement on updated PPV process
• FODO members - claim a free copy of Regulation and UK Optometry
• Opportunity: LOCSU seeks new board members
• Other sector news
• Policy updates

Federation of Optometrists and Dispensing Opticians

Following a consultation with members, FODO will:

• Change its name to the Federation of Optometrists and Dispensing Opticians (FODO)

• Maintain the strapline The Association for Eye Care Providers

The change will be formalised at the FODO AGM on 10 May.

Thank you to all members that took part in the consultation. 

Northern Ireland confirms 2022/2023 GOS fees

The Department of Health has confirmed GOS sight test fees in Northern Ireland will increase by 4.5%, with the uplift backdated to 1 April 2022. CET allowances will also go up by 4.5%, with a 2% increase in voucher values. Read more. Fees for 2023/24 have not yet been announced. 

OFNC issues statement on updated PPV process

Read the OFNC statement on NHSBSA Post Payment Verification (PPV) guidance. 

FODO members - claim a free copy of Regulation and UK Optometry

FODO's professional adviser, Professor Steve Taylor, has published a new book, Regulation and UK Optometry. The comprehensive text covers the Opticians Act, GOS regulations and much more. We have 100 copies available to members free of charge on a first-come first-served basis. Please email [email protected] if you would like a copy. 

Opportunity: LOCSU seeks new board members

LOCSU is looking to recruit four new board directors. FODO strongly encourages members to explore the opportunity to join LOCSU as directors. Find out more and apply.
 
If you want to talk to the FODO Executive about this opportunity, please email us at [email protected]. 

Other sector news

• College seeks IP-qualified optometrist to join CMG review group. Read more.

• Red eye CPD - Optometry Wales. 7 March 2023 at 6.30pm. Presented by Geraint Williams. Register here.

• The Macular Society is calling on parliament to abolish VAT on audiobooks. Learn more about the campaign.

• Applications open for glaucoma research grant. Read more at Opticianonline.

• Clinical optometrist Professor Bruce Evans receives lifetime achievement award from AOP. Read more.

Policy updates

A Health Foundation report says that the public has a low level of confidence in how the NHS is being managed, with most wanting more funding for the NHS. Read more.
 
Newly established integrated care boards in England have been told to cut their running costs by 30%, with significant cuts to staff costs, the HSJ reports.
The HSJ also reports on 14 integrated care systems admitting they will end this year with a deficit.