News

A new benefit called Employment and Support Allowance, which entitles the receiver to NHS-funded sight tests and optical vouchers, is being introduced.

The reform is part of a number of changes made to the new General Ophthalmic Services (GOS) contract, which came into force in August.

From October 27 2008, the Department of Works and Pensions will be introducing Employment and Support Allowance for new claimants who have limited capacity to work.

The benefit will be given to people who would previously have received income support. The new GOS forms have been amended to include a box for claims for the new allowance.

The DoH has also advised that recipients of income support will still be entitled to NHS-funded sight tests and optical vouchers under existing terms.

Other GOS form changes include an amendment to reflect the entitlement of prisoners on leave from prison to NHS-funded sight tests and optical vouchers. All prisoners on leave will be released from custody under licence, which they would be able to show the optical practitioner as proof of entitlement.

The DoH has also advised that the new GOS forms will come into circulation as old forms start to run out. Practitioners needing to make claims for patients receiving the new Employment and Support Allowance should tick the income support box until new forms are available.

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