Simon Jones: A cataract among the pigeons

A Sunday Times report alleging several independent sector providers are facing investigation by the NHS Counter Fraud Authority for billing irregularities has certainly ruffled a few feathers. 

An investigation led by health editor Shaun Lintern claimed private providers are artificially inflating cataract surgery costs for taxpayers, performing sub-standard operations and offering incentives to high street optometrists that refer them to clinics. That high street optometry is caught up in the crossfire is unfortunate, but the allegations around guaranteed follow up care are serious, and need to be investigated for the reputation of the profession.