Green phase guidance published

Optical practices in the UK should move to the green phase from May 10, according to the latest guidance published by the College of Optometrists.

The College confirmed that each nation’s health system supported the move and that Covid-19 amber phase guidance should no longer apply.

Green phase guidance ended Covid-19 specific decontamination protocols, physical distancing and modified eye examinations, although the College advised the continuation of a needs-led approach.

Measures that still applied included: wearing face masks, regular lateral flow testing, maintaining high standards of infection prevention and control procedures, as well as enabling patients with symptoms of respiratory infection to postpone unless their eye care was urgent or an emergency.