IP consultation opened by GOC

A GOC consultation has been launched to gauge the views of the profession on requirements for independent prescribing qualifications.

The regulator has sought views on three proposed documents, which would replace A Handbook for Optometry Specialist Registration in Therapeutic Prescribing and the Competency Framework for Independent Prescribing.

Proposed changes included trainees acquiring a single GOC-approved qualification instead of the two sequential qualifications currently required.

Leonie Milliner, director of education at the GOC, said: ‘We will continue to work closely with our stakeholders to listen to concerns and understand the impact of our proposals, particularly upon trainees whose progress has stalled due to the limited availability of hospital eye service placements during this pandemic.’