Contact lens safety advice

The British Contact Lens Association and the GOC have produced a leaflet to help consumers buy contact lenses safely. It was launched at the BCLA's annual clinical conference which began yesterday (Thursday May 29).

The eight-page pamphlet, Buying Contact Lenses, answers common questions such as how often people should have a check-up and whether people save money by buying their lenses via the internet. The leaflet points out that only registered OOs, DOs with a specialist qualification and medical practitioners can fit contact lenses, as well as outlining the legal situation of contact lens sale and supply. It also warns wearers not to change their prescribed lens type, wearing schedule, replacement frequency, solutions or care procedures without the recommendation of their practitioner.

Copies of the leaflet will be sent to BCLA members and will be used as part of the Association's wider awareness campaign on 'Safe contacts' this summer.