Optical bodies issue advice on GOS contracts

Joint guidance has been issued by ABDO, AOP, BMA and FODO to advise practitioners who did not return their GOS contacts by the August 1 deadline.

The statement informs existing contractors of their legal right to a new contract, provided they notified their PCTs they wanted it before July 1.

Advising practitioners who have specific problems that have prevented them from returning their contracts, Sir Anthony Garrett of ABDO said: 'Talk to your representative body and we will give assistance as necessary.'

Primary care contracting guidance attached to the joint bodies statement showed how PCTs were attempting to resolve any issues: 'The PCT should make enquiries as to whether the contractor does indeed want a contract. If there has merely been a delay in signing then the contract will still take effect on August 1, regardless of when it is signed.'