View from the GOC: The Opticians Act needs reform

Regulatory reform was on the agenda recently at a Worshipful Company of Spectacle Makers panel discussion, and it was interesting to hear a range of views from optical professions.

Regulation exists to ensure patient safety and standards of education, performance and conduct. However, at the GOC we are clear it should not impede innovation or development of new models of care.

We recognise there are significant challenges facing optical professions and the wider healthcare system, in demographic change and technological developments, and this will require new approaches to delivering services and for professionals to take on new roles. We want to be an enabler of change while maintaining patient safety.