25 July 2025

FODO member update – 25 July

This week:

• GOC update on the regulation of optical businesses
• Cataract surgery data published
• Job opportunity - clinical adviser at Optometry Wales
• PES notification - patient choice
• Moorfields continues expansion
• At a glance
• Policy news

GOC update on the regulation of optical businesses

The GOC has published its formal response to its consultation on business regulation. Read more. 

Cataract surgery data published

The latest national ophthalmology database (NOD) cataract audit shows surgical outcomes and volumes have continued to improve. Read more @Clarity. 

Job opportunity - clinical adviser at Optometry Wales

Optometry Wales is seeking an experienced optometrist to support practices in Wales in delivering WGOS. The 30-hours-per-week role has a starting salary of £62,400 (£78,000 FTE). Learn more and apply. 

PES notification - patient choice

Primary Eyecare Services (PES) will be switching from analogue to digital by phasing out postal patient choice letters and introducing a text message service. PES has published FAQs for patients and confirmed that patients will continue to receive letters even it does not hold a mobile number for them. 

Moorfields continues expansion

Moorfields has continued to grow its offering and reach, with its centre in East London offering a new adnexal service, including outpatient appointments and surgery. The service, which will serve East London and Essex, will include procedures for the eyelids, tear ducts and other orbital structures. Learn more.
 
BMJ Open also shares research from Moorfields that indicates ophthalmic technicians have significantly reduced delays across its hospital eye service network. Read more. 

At a glance

• Scottish Government publishes revised payment verification protocols. For GOS, adding enhanced services for community glaucoma services, including registration, primary and secondary assessment payments
• Boots Opticians named finalist in the British Franchise Awards Franchisor of the Year
• Scrivens welcomes NHS 10 Year Health Plan's patient-first approach
• Teesside University receives full approval for optometry courses. Read more.
• Glaucoma patients suffer harm due to hospital not following NICE guidelines. Read more.

Policy news

• The government has confirmed a new regulatory regime for NHS managers. Its review has taken FODO and sector partner feedback on board, and the new regime will not extend to primary eye care providers
• RTT data in England now split by demographic categories, including age, sex, ethnicity and deprivation. Read the Royal College of Ophthalmologists' response
• ICO reports compliance issues with the way some NHS trusts in England manage freedom of information requests
• NHS England has encouraged patients to continue coming forward for care despite resident doctors' strike
• Stuart Andrew, a former minister, replaces Edward Argar as shadow health and social care secretary.