GOC applies to extend order

An application for an extension of the interim order placed on optometrist Ricky Patel has been submitted to the High Court by the General Optical Council.

The GOC made its intentions known at the registrant’s second fitness to practise review hearing held last week after a 12-month conditional registration was placed upon him in January 2013. The committee alleged that Patel failed to conduct an adequate eye examination of a 75-year-old patient who was later diagnosed with a tumour in her eye. It was further alleged that he made inadequate records and an inadequate referral letter which was not followed up.

The GOC said it would seek a continuation of the order in its current form for a period of six months and that a real risk of significant harm would exist if the order was not made.