The upcoming GOC education review is sparking speculation about how the profession might be assessed in the future.
The Scheme for Registration (SfR) was developed and delivered by optometrists, and run by the College. It is underpinned by strict quality assurance processes, all of which ensure that the Scheme remains a valid and robust assessment. In June, we wrote in Optician about a new report published by the College demonstrating that the Scheme, is effective in identifying and addressing deficiencies in knowledge or competence at an early stage. We believe the profession is strengthened by the quality and diversity of its undergraduate training programme, in conjunction with the SfR, as the main entry point to the register.
The Foresight report predicted that clinical practice will be transformed by new technologies and treatments - we know that skills and training will need to change accordingly.
Consolidating qualifications with experience is essential to ensure skills are maintained so it is important that qualifications are available to optometrists post qualification. The College offers higher qualifications, IP and the MECs practical assessment to provide assurance to the regulator and the public that optometrists are qualified to safeguard the nation’s eye health.
So I take issue with Visus’ view that a single route to qualification in the UK is less innovative than in other countries. Surely it is an advantage that clinical training and assessment, leading to registration, is set and examined by one independent organisation, ensuring a single recognised standard.
Jackie Martin, director of education, College of Optometrists