AOP to launch WGOS survey

The AOP will survey members in Wales on the impact of contract reforms in primary eye care services that came into effect in October 2023. 

AOP members practising in Wales and on the border in England will receive a unique link to participate in the survey by email on 23 August.

The new Welsh General Ophthalmic Services (WGOS) began on 20 October 2023 and expanded the core services provided in primary eye care, with the reforms seeking to improve patient access to eye health services “delivered by the right professional, in the right place across the entire eye care pathway.” 

Sharing the reasons behind the new survey, Dr Peter Hampson, AOP clinical and policy director, said: “Nearly a year on from the new regulations coming into force, it is important that we now gather insights from members on their experiences with the new regulations and the impact in practice on members and patients in Wales.”

“Many of the reforms sought to alleviate pressures on other areas of healthcare and cut the waiting list backlog, with welcome changes such as more fully utilising the clinical skills of optometrists and dispensing opticians working in Wales and rewarding clinical work appropriately,” he added.

However, during the contract reform process, questions were raised on the impact of the regulations on vulnerable patients, with the AOP highlighting member concerns regarding the potential effect of changes on domiciliary and low vision services, as well as a reduction in the value of NHS sight test vouchers. 

Hampson explained that the AOP survey “will be important in informing our calls on the Welsh Government to ensure that there is an appropriate and effective eye care service for all citizens in Wales.”

The survey will be launched on 23 August by email, inviting members in Wales, as well as members basedon the borders working in Wales, to take part. Members can contact the AOP policy team by email for more information.