2017 outlook: Get set for another year of change

What challenges and opportunities will independent optometrists and dispensing opticians be presented with in 2017?

Peter Warren, AIO chairman

‘Doug Perkins’ rather clumsy letter to a number of independent practices at the end of November, suggesting that they become part of the ‘Specsavers family’, sent airwaves buzzing and may in retrospect be seen as a rallying call for independents to get on the front foot in 2017. With Specsavers signalling its move into a more extensive clinical offering it behoves the independent sector to build public awareness that most independent practices have been providing in depth eye health examinations for their patients for many years.