Lumen writes: Act of interpretation

Act of interpretation

The Health Act 2006 completed its passage through the Parliamentary stages on July 17 and became law a few days later. You will recall that the Health Bill was primarily concerned with smoking, prevention and control of cross infection, medicines and pharmacy, etc. It is easy to see why it was described as a ‘Christmas tree Bill’. However, it also included (in Chapter 2) perhaps the more relevant sections pertaining to ophthalmic services – namely their provision, contracts, person performance, assistance and support, LOCs and GOS payments.

Many will recall the initial professional angst that was caused when the Bill was first announced, in that it seemed to suggest that provision of the GOS sight test would be placed out to tender and that the sight test fee would be negotiated locally. You probably also recall the ‘shock, horror’ that subsequently ensued.