Update to the domiciliary code of practice

The domiciliary eye care code of practice has been updated by the Optical Confederation’s Domiciliary Eye Care Committee. It has also been endorsed by the College of Optometrists and the Local Optical Committee Support Unit (LOCSU).

The new code provides guidelines for best practice in the provision of domiciliary eye care. It ensures that the priority is always on what is in the best interests of the patient. The code sets out a standard to which all providers should adhere to ensure patient choice and personalised care.

Chair of the Domiciliary Eyecare Committee, optometrist Dawn Roberts, said, “We hope that the new code will not only act as a benchmark for providers but also give relatives, carers and health and social care  professionals an indication as to what they should expect. Ultimately, we as a profession must ensure that the domiciliary patient receives the same level of personalised care as  they would receive on the high street.”

The code will also be a source of reference for relatives and carers and will be widely circulated to other health and social care professionals involved in residential care.

Dawn explained, ‘Ensuring that vulnerable people have access to high-quality eye care remains a high priority for the Optical Confederation and the wider sector. Eye health at any age is precious; this applies as much to people who cannot get to a high street practice as those who can.

“The changing landscape of the NHS has presented an opportune time to review the code of practice, last updated in 2009, particularly as most domiciliary tests are conducted under the NHS.”

To download the new code of practice click here.