Verum writes

Previous Verum columns have argued that for the optics profession to be more involved in primary eye care, it needs to do two things. First, act as one profession, with all sectors working together. Second, engage locally with those who make the decisions within the PCTs so they are aware of the value for money optics has to offer.

Let's now add a third dimension. Our industry will need to invest in resource to make the first two become reality. Local optometric committees are a resource that should be properly funded. There should be a central database resource for LOCs to access, such as model schemes, financial evaluations and off-the-shelf training packages. To further help LOCs, how about access to a people resource, working on behalf of the LOC, facilitating negotiation with PCTs and sharing best practice around the country? Of course, resource costs money, which practices should view as an investment for their future.