Following a series of workshops with stakeholders to discuss the feedback and issues raised during its Education Strategic Review (ESR) consultation process, the General Optical Council (GOC) is setting up two expert advisory groups – one for optometrists and one for dispensing opticians – to shape future learning outcomes.
Amongst those attending a workshop were representatives from ABDO, who were able to voice the Association’s concerns with the GOC’s proposed new system of education.
Tony Garrett, ABDO general secretary, commented: “We put forward our initial concerns with regards to responsibilities, maintaining high standards, and that the learning outcomes need to reflect the roles being delivered now and in the future, keeping in mind the advances in technology and the evolving roles of optometrists and dispensing opticians.
“In relation to service delivery, it is imperative that dispensing opticians are equipped fully with the highest standard of training to develop their skills adequately in relation to contact lens care and minor eye conditions care.
“We continue to work with the GOC to establish the best outcome for our members and future workforce, and we would welcome the opportunity to be part of the GOC expert advisory group for dispensing opticians,” added Tony.
Speaking after the workshops, GOC director of education, Dr Subo Shanmuganathan, said: “We acknowledge the feedback we’ve received and accept that we need to do further work to shape the learning outcomes to ensure they are fit for the future. We intend to do this through two expert advisory groups, one for optometrists and one for dispensing opticians.
“We also understand the importance of developing an implementation plan that is realistic for all of our stakeholders,” Dr Shanmuganathan continued. “We have undertaken wide ranging stakeholder engagement throughout this review, and will continue to do so as we develop the final standards and outcomes and the timeframes for implementation.”
The GOC will publish the final ESR Education Standards and Learning Outcomes consultation response report shortly, and will set out a short term, medium term and long-term implementation plan for each recommendation at its November council meeting.
Read more about the ESR workshops here.