Voucher values rise only 1%

The Optometric Fees Review Committee (OFRC) has expressed disappointment that NHS optical voucher values are to rise by just 1 per cent from April 1 2013, despite dental, prescription and other charges increasing by 2.5 per cent.

OFRC secretary Richard Carswell said: 'Once again optical patients are being penalised and optical providers are being asked to subsidise vision correction for the poorest in society in these toughest of trading times. Inevitably this will mean that fewer practices will be able to supply spectacles within NHS voucher values. OFRC has fought hard to put the case for a fair increase on behalf of patients. It is extremely saddening that our arguments have been disregarded.'