19 September 2025

FODO member update – 19 September

This week:

• Eye images to inform global AI medical foundation model
• Smart glasses for depression get public health support
• OS report calls for expansion of life-changing eye care technology
• GOC update
• At a glance
• Health policy

Eye images to inform global AI medical foundation model

A consortium of research groups from 65 countries has launched the Global RETFound initiative - a collaboration using over 100 million retinal photographs to detect eye diseases. It claims to be more generalisable, diverse and fair than any previous model. Read more @Clarity. 

Smart glasses for depression get public health support

The government is backing the development of smart glasses that use AI to help people with depression to "reframe negative thoughts". The glasses are among many innovations designed by businesses that could reduce the NHS mental health burden. Read more @Clarity. 

OS report calls for expansion of life-changing eye care technology

A report by Optometry Scotland points to regional and demographic disparities in access to ocular coherence tomography (OCT). The report recommends introducing an enhanced GOS fee for OCT scans in acute eye presentations, alongside a national capital funding programme to support practice investment in OCT equipment. The report also advocates for long-term support for ongoing maintenance and secure data storage. Read more @Clarity. 

GOC update

At its latest meeting on 16 September, the GOC approved its business case for thematic review into commercial practices and patient safety, its Annual Report 2024-25 and the Equality, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) Annual Report 2024-25.

The thematic review aims to improve understanding of registrant feedback on ghost clinics, testing times, targets and incentives, cost and eligibility transparency and access to care for young children. Read more. 

At a glance

• The College of Optometrists has been travelling across the UK to meet its members at Boots, Hakim Group, Specsavers and Vision Express events. Read more.
• College announces that new research scholarships, grants and bursaries are open for applications. Read more.
• Donation enables Cardiff University optometry students to deliver vital eye care to Malawi, reports The Tab. Read more.
• Optician Online explains how optometrist gave champion clay pigeon shooter a competitive edge by improving her vision.
• BBC covers story of an optician who diagnosed a heart attack while giving a patient a blood pressure test at her eye appointment. Read more.
• New Greater Manchester eyecare service aims to make referral of non-emergency patients easier to plan and manage demand, says ABDO.
• Business News Wales reports on an advanced retinal service in Newport that is easing NHS pressures by monitoring and managing complex conditions in the community. Read more.
• New ECOO European Diploma in Optometry aligns with WCO eye care competency framework. Read more.
• SightCare hosts roadshow for independents. Read more.

Health policy

• HSJ reports on a new DHSC team, highlighting how there are still multiple interim posts. Chief medical officer Professor Chris Whitty joins the team from NHSE. Claire Fuller is one of two interim medical directors and becomes the DG-level director for neighbourhood health. The DHSC has also confirmed Dr Amanda Doyle will continue as NHSE's national director of primary care and community services.
• The Welsh Government has confirmed it will invest £120 million to help tackle waiting lists, including funding an additional 20,000 cataract operations by the end of March 2026.