Letters: July 11

I have read an interesting paragraph in the new Code of ethics and Guidelines, Quote section 16.11: 'Attention is drawn to the statement in the introduction that the College endorse [sic] the need for fees to reflect the professional service provided'.

If the content of this guidance has been developed by the AOP, ABDO, FODO and the GOC, wouldn't their time have been better spent achieving better fees for the NHS test? Perhaps they can explain the following:

Our fees seem to be based on the technology, practice equipment and optometric training of 1948 when the NHS was formed. That level of eye examination (See the College's Code of Ethics) is no longer acceptable, nor are our fees. Look at how the dental profession has moved forward, our negotiating bodies should discuss with government the value of our profession to the health and wellbeing of the general public and negotiate a modern fee that represents what we can provide. If the government cannot provide it, if we don't get what is essential for the survival of quality optometry, let's get out of the NHS and go private.