GP negotiator offers advice

A leading member of the British Medical Association and the architect of the new GP contact, Dr John Chisholm, shared his insights on negotiating with the health authorities at a FODO Council meeting earlier this week.

Chisholm was the guest of honour at the event which was attended by the optical bodies and optical negotiators.

He told delegates: 'We have learned a lot in the GP world about dealing with the health departments and the NHS. I was more than happy to share what I have learnt, including the successes and disappointments of the new GP contract negotiations, with optometric colleagues.'

His comments come a week after the Department of Health and the Optometric Fees Review Committee announced a 2.5 per cent increase in GOS fees, giving a sight test fee of £19.32 backdated to April 1 2007.