It is easier to be negative than positive, just as it is easy to be wise after the event. This is especially true when commenting on the annual NHS eye examination rise when it can be difficult to be constructive.
It's the same old story year after year with the inflexible Department and optics throwing all it can in the process, to little discernible success.
In a new development, FODO is turning to Dr John Chisholm of the British Medical Association, a key architect and negotiator of the new GP contract, and someone from whom it hopes to learn. You could say his involvement before the negotiations would have been more useful than after, and the idea that a long-term approach is now needed has perhaps been a long time in the making. However, in dealing with the DoH any move that can potentially provide leverage should be seized upon, whatever the timing.
Frustration in the profession is palpable (See Moneo writes) and if the next round of talks fails to move the situation forward, no amount of advice seeking will make any difference.
The trouble with the optical fee failure as it now stands is that the financially rewarding model north of the border makes the situation south seem even worse. FODO should therefore be praised for taking lessons from another successful model - GPs and their contact - in its fight for recognition.