Optical Confederation clarifies position on CQC registration requests

July 18 2012

The Optical Confederation has reminded the Care Quality Commission (CQC) that GOS contractors are exempt from the health regulator’s registration process.

Alerted to a recent request sent to a contractor (and an LOC member), the Optical Confederation has written to the CQC to confirm that, as nationally agreed with the Department of Health, providers of primary ophthalmic services do not need to register with CQC. The Optical Confederation has also asked CQC to ensure that all optical practices are removed from the registration database that is used, to avoid GOS contractors being contacted in the future with requests to register their services.

Speaking on behalf of the Optical Confederation, Richard Carswell said: “It was important that the Optical Confederation address this issue; needless registration is a waste of time and resources for both CQC and our GOS contractors.

“We are hopeful that this will avoid any future similar requests. However, should you receive a letter requesting that you register with the CQC, please respond by referring to the letter sent by the Optical Confederation, which explains that primary ophthalmic services are outside the scope of CQC, so registration is not required.

“There is no requirement on practices which are participating in local enhanced services or on ophthalmic medical practitioners who are carrying out GOS sight tests to register.

“It would be helpful if anyone receives this request to also keep their Optical Confederation professional body informed (ABDO, AOP or FODO) so we can note the number of requests made to our members erroneously.”

A copy of the letter sent to the Care Quality Commission is available on the Optical Confederation website at www.opticalconfederation.org.uk, and can be downloaded directly via www.opticalconfederation.org.uk/news/latest-news/post/40-optical-confederation-writes-to-care-quality-commission-to-clarify-registration-requirements

There is a dedicated email address for providers to use if they feel that they do not need to register with CQC through this process. They can contact the Organisation Data Service team (at NHS Connecting for Health). The email address is exeter.helpdesk@nhs.net or call 01392 251289.