Mid Staffs scandal may have impact on optics

A scathing healthcare report into the operation of a hospital trust could influence the way complaints are dealt with in optics.

The Francis Report, into serious failings at the Mid Staffordshire NHS Foundation Trust, has rocked healthcare and may force the General Optical Council to examine how workers express concerns about colleagues and respond to complaints from patients.

Among inquiry chairman Robert Francis' recommendations were for 'openness, transparency and candour' throughout the healthcare system when it came to matters of concern.

At last week's quarterly Council meeting the GOC decided to delay approval of its own whistleblowing policy - for people who want to raise concerns about the GOC - in light of the report.