OO escapes sanction

A GOC fitness to practise committee has decided that no sanction would be appropriate for an optometrist who practised without being registered for two years.

Abhay Joshi had practised unregistered for two years and four months from August 16, 2005 and only restored his registration after his status was queried by the local PCT during a revalidation process.

In deciding against sanctions, the committee took into account Joshi's early admission of his misconduct, that he had no previous adverse findings against him and that he was committed to continuing to repay substantial monies to the PCT. It ruled against any financial penalty in light of Joshi's substantial domestic responsibilities and outgoings.