Unit hopes for simpler system

The Local Optometric Committee Support Unit (LOCSU) has welcomed the announcement in the white paper Equity and Excellence - Liberating the NHS (News 23.07.10) that primary ophthalmic services will be commissioned nationally by the NHS commissioning board.

A LOCSU spokesperson told Optician that the Unit was hopeful the government would simplify complexities in the local commissioning of enhanced services. The spokesperson explained that a number of LOCs had seen the implementation of enhanced service pathways delayed by what it described as 'onerous local procurement processes'.

LOCSU also wished to emphasise to LOCs that it was 'more important than ever' for them to ensure that they were engaged with local practice-based commissioning groups, and ensure that GPs were 'fully aware of both the value of current eye care services and the scope of services LOCs could provide'.