In Focus: Post pandemic perception

As a barometer of what the public thinks of the work carried out by optometrists and dispensing opticians, the General Optical Council’s annual public perception research has been a useful tool over the past six years.

But the coronavirus pandemic has added a layer of complexity and the latest research has shown that the public could be willing to accept change in the way eye care is delivered. When asked if they would consider an initial consultation via video or telephone after coronavirus restrictions ease, 62% of the 2,000 members of the public asked said they would – a clear indication that some of the measures implemented as a result of the pandemic could be here for the long term.