GOC highlights retention issue

With just eight weeks left until the retention deadline of March 15, only a quarter of registrants have applied for retention, according to the GOC.

GOC figures on January 19 showed that 4,543 had returned their forms. All practitioners must return a completed application form and payment to remain on the register. Those failing to meet retention or CET requirements will be removed from the register on April 1, irrespective of payment. Those who pay the retention fee by direct debit will not be renewed unless they return a completed application form.

The GOC said: 'In past years we have had a last-minute rush, which creates real difficulties for the registration team, and increases the costs of processing. So we want to encourage registrants not to delay, and to return their forms now.'