Joe Ayling: Education review a vital cog in the wheel

A roadmap for the future role of optometrists and dispensing opticians has been laid out by the Foresight Project and College Workforce Survey in the past few years.

Last year’s Foresight report addressed the potential impact of technology on the sector to 2030, including e-commerce, 3D printing and online refraction.

The Workforce Survey, meanwhile, painted the picture of an undersupply of full-time optometrists despite the arrival of several new courses. This will need to be reversed should the profession continue its movement towards more clinical eye services.

Now though, is the time for action and the GOC’s strategic review of education is an example of activity taking shape.