The General Optical Council (GOC) is preparing to consult on draft guidance on the care of patients in vulnerable circumstances – and on maintaining appropriate sexual boundaries.
The guidance will be designed to support registrants in meeting the GOC’s new standards for registrants, introduced in January 2025, which underline the importance of identifying and responding to the needs of patients in vulnerable circumstances, as well as maintaining appropriate sexual boundaries with patients and colleagues.
“The guidance on care of patients in vulnerable circumstances acknowledges that a series of factors combine to shape vulnerability including an individual’s personal characteristics, life circumstances, as well as the actions of eyecare professionals and businesses,” stated the regulator following a recent council meeting.
“It encourages practices to make prospective patients aware of issues that might create access barriers (e.g. stairs), and outlines the role of businesses in alerting patients to their eligibility for financial support (e.g. free tests).
“The guidance on maintaining appropriate sexual boundaries provides further clarity on why registrants must not treat patients with whom they are in a sexual relationship, and considers boundaries between registrants.”
The public consultation will begin in summer 2025.