SightCare calls for fair access and patient choice in over-70s eyesight testing consultation
SightCare has written to government ministers and parliamentarians on behalf of its members to raise concerns about how any future mandatory eyesight testing scheme for older drivers is commissioned and delivered.
Emma Rawlings, CEO of SightCare, has been in dialogue with the Association of Independent Optometrists (AIO) to ensure the independent sector presents a united voice on the issue. Together, both organisations share concerns around patient choice, fair commissioning and the potential impact on independent practices.
Emma has also written to James Murray, Secretary of State for Health and Social Care, two local MPs and Marsha De Cordova MP, Chair of the All-Party Parliamentary Group on Eye Health and Visual Impairment, to ensure the views of independent optical practices are fully considered as part of the ongoing consultation regarding eyesight testing for drivers aged over 70.
While supporting the principle of improving road safety through appropriate eyesight standards, SightCare has urged policymakers to ensure that any future scheme provides fair access for independent practices and protects patient choice.
In its correspondence, SightCare highlights concerns that a centrally commissioned or exclusive provider model could unintentionally exclude thousands of experienced independent optometrists who already deliver NHS-funded eye care services across the UK.
Rawlings said:
“Independent opticians play a vital role in delivering accessible eye care within local communities. We fully support measures that improve road safety, but any future scheme must make use of the expertise and capacity that already exists across the independent sector.
“Patients should be free to choose where they receive their eye care and should not be directed towards a limited number of providers. We believe there should be a level playing field that enables all suitably qualified practices to participate.”
The organisation argues that independent practices are often at the heart of their communities, providing continuity of care through long-standing patient relationships and supporting local employment and high streets.
SightCare’s submission also notes that any future commissioning framework should align with General Optical Council standards, which place patients at the centre of decision-making and support informed patient choice.
The organisation has called on government to ensure that any future scheme:
- Provides an open commissioning framework that allows all appropriately contracted practices to participate
- Utilises the existing nationwide network of community optometrists
- Ensures fair remuneration for clinical services
- Protects patient choice and continuity of care
- Supports local healthcare provision and local economies
- Maintains a level playing field across the optical sector
Rawlings added:
“Road safety and support for independent healthcare providers should not be viewed as competing objectives. By adopting an inclusive approach, government can improve road safety outcomes while preserving patient choice and supporting community-based healthcare services across the UK.”
SightCare says it would welcome the opportunity to contribute further to discussions as the consultation progresses and to help develop a fair and sustainable national solution that benefits patients, practitioners and policymakers alike.
Media enquiries: Susie Connolly, Communications & Marketing Manager
01256 781 522 | susieconnolly@sightcare.co.uk
