A new version of the College of Optometrists' CPD Online tool has been launched for optometrists to keep a record of their education and training. It follows consultation with users, members and other stakeholders, the College said. New functionality allows users to attach notes, photographs and other materials. Videos featuring optometrists and dispensing opticians discussing their views on professional development have also been uploaded. Non-members have been offered a free trial of the website for three months.
Multiple Specsavers has offered free eye examinations to taxi drivers in Greater London in the lead up to Christmas. Drivers have been invited to present their private hire and Hackney Carriage licences in-store when booking an appointment at Greater London practices during December. A company spokesperson said the scheme would initially launch in London and if successful could expand to other city centres.
Newly qualified optometrists have celebrated at the College of Optometrists' diploma ceremony in London. The event took place on Tuesday November 8 at Central Hall, Westminster, where life fellowships were awarded to Anita Lightstone, Dr John Adrian Macdonald Jennings, Norbert Cohn, Donald Cameron and Dr Colin Fowler. Professor Peng Tee Khaw was elected to honorary fellowship of the College in recognition of his outstanding contribution to the profession.
The General Optical Council has been notified of practices receiving bogus voicemail messages claiming to be from the GOC. The messages reportedly asked registrants to call the GOC on a mobile phone number. The Council urged people not to respond to the messages, stressing that its main switchboard number was 020 7580 3898 and other phone numbers began 020 7307. Bogus messages can be reported to goc@optical.org.