MP calls lack of consultation 'ludicrous'

An MP has supported optics’ fight against the proposed changes to GOS by writing to health secretary Patricia Hewitt.

Richard Bacon, who represents South Norfolk, has become involved after being contacted by an optometrist in his constituency on the possibility that the GOS budget will be capped and devolved to PCTs.

The MP is concerned that the profession will be placed down the pecking order if PCTs are given control of the GOS purse strings.

‘Primary care trusts are already under massive financial strain, with many facing huge deficits,’ Bacon said.

‘Faced with new priorities on smoking, MRSA, obesity and sexual health, optometry is unlikely to be an immediate priority for many trusts.

'That leaves local health bosses with two unpalatable choices: driving their deficits deeper or cutting provision.’

Bacon commented that doctors, dentists and pharmacists were consulted before their contracts were renegotiated, ‘but the Department of Health seems reluctant to consult with England’s opticians, despite promising to do so.

‘Opticians don’t deserve this kind of treatment and must be consulted, as their colleagues in Scotland and Wales were.’

He pointed out that currently 96 per cent of people over the age of 55 wear spectacles or contact lenses.

‘It is ludicrous that, with an ageing population, this is not being taken more seriously,’ said the MP. ‘The irony is that this will inevitably lead to less choice for patients – the reverse of stated government policy.’

Read Bacon’s letter to Patricia Hewitt here and find out her email address.