What the GOC's business regulation review means to you

In December 2013, the General Optical Council (GOC) announced the outcome of its review into the regulation of businesses which provide optical services. The changes it proposes are significant and, if adopted, will bring the regulation of these businesses more into line with the regulation of other healthcare businesses.

The main problem with the current regulatory framework is that not all businesses are obliged, or indeed eligible, to register with the GOC. Current registration is restricted to businesses which are a corporate body (such as a limited company or LLP) with a protected title, and which meet certain requirements relating to their structure.