‘Once in a generation’ chance for reform

Plans for legislative reform published by Department for Health and Social Care (DHSC) have been given a cautious welcome by the General Optical Council as it could pave the way for amendments to the way its regulatory functions are carried out.

Draft legislation included provision for the General Medical Council to regulate anaesthesia associates and physician associates.

The GOC said the S60 order would act as a template the future regulation of other healthcare professionals, including dispensing opticians and optometrists.

The proposed legislation would give the GOC greater autonomy in discharging regulatory responsibilities to protect patients and the public.

The regulator said this would uphold the reputation of the optical profession.

Changes to optical regulation were not included in the first tranche of proposed reforms, but the GOC said it was preparing for any changes by reviewing its own legislation and reflecting on responses from the 2022 call for evidence, so it was ‘best placed to move forwards quickly once the DHSC announce a clear timeframe.

Describing the proposed reforms as a ‘once in a generation opportunity,’ GOC chief executive and registrar Leonie Milliner said: ‘The proposed reforms will enable us to create a more modern and flexible system of regulation which will better protect the public and support GOC registrants.’