Rules on the use of fluorescein strips within optical practices have been clarified by the GOC following supply issues in Europe relating to classification (News 22.06.12).
'The GOC has consulted the MHRA and confirmed that contact lens opticians (CLOs) may administer pharmacy medicines to their patients in the course of their business. This means CLOs can use fluorescein strips as they are classed as pharmacy medicines,' it said.
Optometrists can also order and use medicinal products such as fluorescein strips, which are used to fit contact lenses and assess ocular health.
The European Council of Optometry and Optics (ECOO) last month urged practitioners to continue using fluorescein strips after they were classified as medicines in Switzerland.