Optical bodies have welcomed the publication of Lord Darzi's NHS Next Steps Review this week, and have reiterated the importance of the profession's continuing involvement in the proposed overhaul of community healthcare.
The report, outlining the former surgeon and health minister's vision for the NHS for the next 10 years, also paved the way for a new partnership between the optical bodies and the NHS.
Commenting on the publication, a spokesperson for the Eye Health Alliance, a coalition of optical bodies and eye care charities, said: 'We welcome this report as the opportunity for a new partnership between the NHS and the optical profession. Indeed, we have already set up a new support unit to help local optical committees, PCTs and commissioning groups build such relationships.
'The aim must be to improve eye health by highlighting the importance of regular sight testing and encouraging the development of more integrated services with hospital, GP and community care using the enhanced services flexibilities in the new GOS contract.'
The Eye Care Alliance has the backing of ABDO, the AOP, FODO and the College of Optometrists.