The College of Optometrists has responded to findings from a survey of UK practitioners that showed nearly nine in ten felt present amber phase guidance was not appropriate for the current stage of the pandemic.
The College said it acknowledged the results of the survey but reiterated that it had answered member questions and concerns in recent weeks, through a webinar on January 14 and a follow-up podcast where additional member queries were addressed. The body added it had written to employers in the sector, and their representative bodies, to highlight the guidance, to make clear how it should be applied, and to remind them of their duty of care.
A College of Optometrists spokesperson said: 'The Amber Phase guidance is in place in recognition of all UK government’s and health authorities regulations that means that primary care – in all settings – remains open and that patients in all four nations are able to leave home to attend medical appointments.
‘Our guidance is based on all the available evidence and advice and the safety of our members and their patients is our paramount concern. The Amber Phase guidance is supported by all of the relevant authorities and sector bodies, including the Public Health England, Optometry Scotland, Optometry Wales, ABDO, the GOC, AOP and FODO.
‘The guidance, and each nation's health services, make clear that optometrists should prioritise emergency, urgent and essential care on a needs and symptoms led basis.
‘We advise that practice staff and optometrists offer telephone screening to determine patients’ COVID-19 status and the level of eye care needed, and based on this and eye health symptoms, to weigh patient need with the risk of attending a face-to-face appointment. We recommend, if the patient is shielding or clinically vulnerable, they are offered the opportunity to defer their appointment.’
More information on Covid-19 guidance is available on the College website:https://www.college-optometrists.org/guidance/covi...
