Can I suggest it is high time someone publicised the alternative career options and business opportunities available to optometry and DO graduates and also how practices can publicise locally what additional tests and services they can offer and the price?
When I qualified, OOs could not even advertise the price of frames and lenses, without risk of being struck off – they did not need to advertise additional services as there were none.
Now rules on advertising seem to be non-existent, but only the brave will risk the wrath of the GOC for bringing the profession into disrepute.
High street opticians are no longer simply selling sight tests and corrective lenses. We have all heard about Specsavers and hearing aids, but it seems we can offer Botox for under eye bags.
How many of the public understand which practices offer more than a Snellen based test chart sight test and the option of specs or contact lenses? I assume all high street practices now sell contact lenses?