The College of Optometrists has updated sections of its Code of Ethics and Guidance for Professional Conduct, including the amendment that patients have a right to copies of their records and that organisations may charge for them.
The concentration of hypochlorite needed for disinfecting has been clarified and the code makes it clear that contact lenses and ophthalmic devices can be reused if they are decontaminated properly. The requirement to routinely record details of the patient's general medical practitioner has been removed, as has the suggestion that practitioners should measure IOP pre and post dilation - it is now left to their professional judgment.
Advice on safeguarding children and vulnerable adults has also been added.
Clinical adviser Dr Susan Blakeney said: 'It's really important that optometrists keep up to date with the latest guidance. We encourage all optometrists to check our website for the latest updates and for instructions on how to update their member handbooks.'
? The College has also launched a second consultation on the code after a first-phase review found it useful but that it could be clearer and easier to use. Respondents felt the College could do more to raise awareness of the code, which should be easier to use online.
The code was described as important by the College, as members and other optometrists used it to check on standards of practice. It was also used by other healthcare workers and the GOC in fitness to practise cases.
Josephine Mullin, College director of policy and strategy, said: 'The feedback submitted is essential in helping us to ensure the guidance is relevant to users. Ultimately we want our guidance to be easily accessible, concise and provide optometrist and other users with what they need.'
Phase two of the review will consist of further questionnaires and telephone research.