Hundreds are struck off - but fantastic CET result is claimed

April 5 2007

The GOC removed a total of 602 optometrists and dispensing opticians from its registers this week.

Those removed include practitioners who failed to apply for retention in the registers for 2007-8, and those who failed to meet the requirements for CET.
 

However, with just 319 individuals removed for failing to meet the CET requirement – or 2% of the profession – registrar Peter Coe (pictured) was jubilant.

"This is a fantastic result for the professions," he said.

"The overwhelming majority have met CET requirements without any difficulty.

"Such a strong response sends a clear message to the public that optometrists and dispensing opticians are committed to keeping their knowledge and skills up to date and to maintaining the highest standards of care."

The list of registrants not renewed for 2007-8 is being sent to primary care organisations and professional bodies. In all 267 optometrists were removed from the profession's register, 335 DOs. A total of 283 registrants failed to apply for retention, and the figures do not include the 258 practitioners who withdrew from the register due to retirement, or emigration.
 

Entries relating to a specialty were removed from the names of 15 registrants, who failed to obtain the required number of specialty CET points. They continue to be registered as non-specialists but may not carry out work or activities reserved in relation to that specialty.

In all 50 corporate bodies were also removed – bodies corporate not on the registers may not use or associate any of the protected titles with their company names.

"Any individual or business who has been removed must restore to the register to practise," said a GOC spokeswoman, Applicants must complete the relevant form, pay the £239 restoration fee and provide evidence of having completed the required minimum of CET in the past 12 months."

NHS bodies may also refuse payment or reclaim GOS fees in respect of any period during which a practitioner was not registered.