NOC conference report: Devolution to revolution

Day one

Despite piecemeal commissioning by the NHS, community optical practices across England are managing to deliver extended care for minor eye conditions, glaucoma and cataract patients, children’s vision and low vision clinics.

Thousands of optometrists have now become Mecs accredited and, with the NHS facing continued crisis, the scheme has been embraced by increasing numbers of clinical commissioning groups (CCGs).

Meanwhile, clinical demands are being extended out to contact lens opticians and dispensing opticians, particularly for low vision services. Indeed, on the first morning of the NOC at the Hilton Birmingham Metropole, ABDO head of policy and development Barry Duncan tells delegates there are now 50 DO representatives across the LOCs in England.