Moneo writes

I note that ABDO has recorded its pleasure in the ending of the system of 'grandfathering' as a way for dispensing opticians to be able to carry out NHS work within their businesses. The system was, at best, a dog's breakfast and complicated things a lot for some people, not least the PCT managers who had to understand it.

However, I was mildly surprised just how pleased the ABDO leaders actually were. The end of grandfathering may simplify matters when it comes to registering with a PCT, but is also signals a fundamental weakening in the current status of our NHS registration. Currently, to hold an NHS registration with a PCT to carry out sight testing it is necessary, in one way or another, to be registered with the GOC, be it as an optometrist or a registered body corporate. With the advent of the new system the ABDO leaders are so pleased about, anybody can apply to a PCT to deliver NHS ophthalmic services. This is the first time since the inception of the NHS that our position has been so weakened.