Continuing Professional Development (CPD) is being introduced by the College of Optometrists for optometrists and the wider optometric community on a voluntary basis.
A working group has been set up to develop a CPD programme with the view to introducing a pilot scheme in summer 2009.
According to the College, its CPD scheme will offer a place for optometrists to manage their ongoing development and record the CPD which they have undertaken, as well as offering support and guidance in this area.
'The aim is build a system which will be flexible enough to allow easy reporting for a number of frameworks, such as various employer appraisal systems and legislative requirements, without duplicate effort,' the College said.
Commenting on the difference between CET and CPD, the College said: 'CET is about maintaining competency at entry level to the register, whereas CPD builds on this platform, reflecting the development of an individual as a professional and as their scope of practice changes, becomes more focused throughout their optometric career.
'CPD could be recorded for any learning activity which optometrists can demonstrate improves their professional knowledge and practice. Examples might include peer review, involvement in the wider work of an employer or the sector (eg serving on a committee), work shadowing, reflective practice, coaching from others, secondments, distance learning, taught courses, among many others.'
In terms of the costs, she said: 'At this stage it is expected to be a member benefit and free of charge for all College members.'
According to the College, the running of the scheme will be developed with the involvement of the other stakeholders.
Commenting on the announcement, College president Rob Hogan, said: 'CPD is important for all health professionals in providing a continued acceptable standard of care, thus assuring the safety of the public.'