Independent prescribing was up for debate at the optical bodies' autumn dinner last week as representatives from all the optical bodies gathered at Durrants Hotel, London.
The discussion looked at four key areas: the pharmaceutical industry's perspective on what was likely to happen the views of optometrists, ophthalmologists and GPs implementation issues and how to ensure quality under the new primary ophthalmic services regime.
Commenting on the dinner, Paul Carroll, FODO chairman, said: 'The success of this evening shows the benefits of working together, discussing issues openly and agreeing sensible ways forward. The optical sector has come on by leaps and bounds over the past 18 months. We were able to learn from the experience of nurses and pharmacists, share both our concerns and optimism and look forward to optometrists working in new multi-professional ways.'
Dr June Crown, who launched the original report into independent prescribing by professionals other than doctors, said: 'Independent prescribing by optometrists has been a long time coming. I hope we are on the threshold of a breakthrough. It will bring immeasurable benefits to patients.'
Pictured (from left) are ABDO vice president Barry Duncan, AOP chairman Trevor Warburton, Dr June Crown, College of Optometrists president Kevin Lewis and FODO chairman Paul Carroll.