Locsu and the Optical Confederation have reminded practitioners they have until September 8 to submit a claim relating to GOS payment or performers list delays in 2016-17, in a processes agreed with NHS England.
A statement said contractors who have experienced a late payment from Primary Care Support England (PCSE) relating to GOS sight tests or voucher claims submitted up to March 31 2017 can claim for interest on late payments and an administration allowance for each payment delay using a dedicated form.
NHS England would also consider claims for reimbursement of bank charges and other costs incurred as a result of late payment, where evidence can be provided.
Optical sector representative on the PCSE Stakeholder Forum, Dr Peter Hampson, said: ‘It is important we ensure all contractors and performers are aware of the opportunity for submitting claims relating to GOS payment or performers list delays, and that the deadline is approaching fast.’
‘Many contractors in England have faced considerable levels of disruption due to GOS payment issues so we are urging GOS contractors to check their payments’ records and complete the Ophthalmic Payment Delay Form by 8 September if they think they may be eligible to make a claim.
‘We are also conscious that a significant number of optometrists have been impacted by delays in the processing of applications to the Ophthalmic Performers List, so would encourage anyone who feels they have been affected to email their details to the specified address for consideration.’
Optometrists who have suffered a delay in obtaining an NHS England Performers List number could also submit a claim for a goodwill payment from NHS England, a statement added.
For more details, visit the Locsu website.
