Duncan and Todd optometrists complete independent prescribing qualifications

Duncan and Todd has announced that 25% of its 66 optometrists are qualified in independent prescribing (IP) enabling them to provide enhanced services to patients.

Last year, four optometrists at the Scottish group passed their IP qualifications and can now prescribe medications for eye conditions identified during examination.

Julia Mosgrove, professional services manager at Duncan and Todd, said: ‘Optometrists in Scotland average around 22% of IP qualified optometrists, so to have so many IP qualified employees and more in the process underlines the scope of our expertise within the industry.

‘Our staff are now able to help patients on a more instant basis, potentially offering a diagnosis and prescribing the correct medicine for conditions affecting the eye. It’s extremely valuable for us to have staff who can prescribe, where suitable, an NHS prescription.’