Insurance and why you need it

All ABDO members (qualified as FBDO) must retain professional indemnity insurance (PPI) in accordance with GOC regulations. The ABDO scheme is only available to members of the Association who are fully qualified dispensing opticians, residing in the United Kingdom. The policy covers the Insured (including the fitting of contact lenses, if so qualified), and any subordinates working under his/her guidance and direction. It does not cover optometric work.

The current fee is £45.00 for dispensing opticians and £55.00 for contact lens opticians for the calendar year January to December. Please note that no pro rata fee or refund is offered should you join or leave the scheme during the year (with the exception of newly-qualified FBDOs, qualifying after 31 May, who may pay a reduced fee of £22.50 if joining the scheme in the year of qualification). Once selected, your insurance will renew automatically each January, with your annual membership subscription. Cover will remain in force provided payment is received by 31 January in the year the fees are due (unless paying in instalments by Direct Debit). Failure to pay your ABDO membership subscription and/or your ABDO professional indemnity insurance fee will result in your withdrawal from the scheme.

ABDO also offer insurance for ABDO registered contact lens opticians who have completed their MECS accreditation at a cost of £75.00 per year. Please contact ABDO Membership services on 01227 733911 if you are a member and would like to apply for this insurance or upgrade your level of cover to include MECS.

The following is a brief guide to the policy. It does not form the basis of the insurance contract:

Breach of professional duty

• • £5,000,000 for claims arising out of any neglect, error or omission in providing dispensing advice in the course of the business

If you have any specific queries, contact the insurance brokers, G D Anderson & Co Ltd, tel: 020 7437 5122. The policy itself may be viewed at the ABDO office in Kent, by appointment.

Complete the application form to apply for this cover.