NHS reform favours optics

Noises from Westminster are loud and clear - get ready for commissioning. The government's Health and Social Care Bill proposes a new commissioning system driven by local clinical commissioning groups and GPs.

It means optical practices could play an increasing role in reducing eye hospital waiting lists, according to a central mediator.

LOCSU says commissioning enhanced services is a win-win for optometrists, who would be funded for enhanced services and in doing so put more skills to use. The unit is working with local optical committees to accelerate the uptake of enhanced services, and wants to push optics up the agenda at the commissioning table.