Optometry Wales Welcomes Additional Financial Support Following Successful
Negotiations
Optometry Wales is pleased to announce that, following recent contract negotiations
with the Welsh Government and NHS Wales, there will be additional financial support
for the optometry profession in Wales. This collaborative effort marks a significant step
forward in enhancing eye care services across Wales.
Since the introduction of the new optometry contract, Optometry Wales has worked
closely with the Welsh Government and NHS Wales. The conclusion of this year’s
negotiations has led to increased support, particularly focused on higher clinical
pathways. These pathways are designed to facilitate the transfer of services from
hospital eye services to primary care optometry practices located on the high street.
Optometry Wales has long championed the ability of optometrists and dispensing
opticians to deliver high-quality services in their local communities. This new
investment comes a year after significant reforms to optometry services in Wales and
the implementation of the new optometry contract, highlighting the Welsh
Government’s commitment to addressing the growing demand on hospital eye
services, and the available skills within the optometry and dispensing optician
workforce.
The negotiated fees and additional support will empower community optometrists and
dispensing opticians to operate at the top of their license, ensuring that Wales remains
a leader in clinical service delivery and continues to drive reform within the UK.
Over the past 12 months, Optometry Wales has actively engaged in constructive
dialogue and collaboration with NHS Wales and the Welsh Government to advance
optometry contract reform. While there is still work to be done to ensure a balanced
approach across all General Ophthalmic Services pathways in Wales, the outcome of
this year’s negotiations guarantees further support for all service providers, enhancing
the clinical services that optometrists and dispensing opticians can offer.
Optometry Wales looks forward to continuing its partnership with the Welsh
Government and NHS Wales, embracing regular engagement through meetings to
address key issues affecting the profession in Wales.
As the representative body for optometrists and dispensing opticians, Optometry
Wales encourages all members of the profession to engage with their regional
optometric committees. This interaction is vital to ensure that ongoing discussions
reflect the diverse and progressive workforce throughout Wales.