In Focus: Optical profession stands ready for government’s plans

A government plan to reduce waiting lists by creating more appointments closer to home has been welcomed by the optical profession.  

Prime Minister Keir Starmer announced NHS England’s Elective Reform Plan earlier this month, which outlined a whole system approach to achieving an 18-week referral target.  

‘This elective reform plan will deliver on our promise to end the backlogs. Millions more appointments. Greater choice and convenience for patients. Staff once again able to give the standard of care they desperately want to. 

‘This is a key plank of our Plan for Change, which will drive growth that puts more money in people’s pockets, secures our borders and makes the NHS fit for the future so that working people live longer, healthier, more prosperous lives,’ the PM said.