New chair for CCEHC

Dr Gillian Ruddock

Dr Gillian Rudduck, president of the College of Optometrists, has been elected as the new chair of the Clinical Council for Eye Health Commissioning (CCEHC).

An independent advisory body, representing the leading clinical professions and charity organisations in the eyecare sector in England, CCEHC was formed in 2013. It works with NHS England to improve eye health outcomes and access, and promotes high quality accessible eye health services that address local health inequalities.

Dr Rudduck commented: “At a time of significant change in the healthcare landscape, including the recent publication of the NHS 10-Year Plan, it is important that the CCEHC draws on the strength of its broad membership and considerable expertise, to speak together with one voice.

“The CCHEC will need to work collaboratively with DHSC and NHS leaders, local commissioners, eyecare and other health professionals to support the successful implementation of enhanced eyecare delivery across England. As chair, I will seek to ensure that the strength of knowledge and diversity is fully directed to the issue of improving eye care provision.

“I’m immensely grateful to Wojciech Karwatowski and Zoe Richmond – the outgoing chair and vice chair – for their considerable work over the last four years in establishing the CCEHC as a respected voice in the eyecare sector and for the strong links they have developed with NHS England and the Department of Health and Social Care.”

Dr Rudduck will formally take over the role of chair in October 2025 from Wojciech Karwatowski who has held the position for four years.