The NHS Wales Shares Services Partnership (NWSSP) is seeking to include dispensing opticians (DOs) in the NHS Wales Eye Care Services Administrative List – which includes the qualified practitioner’s details and the ophthalmic services they provide, assist or support in.
To this end, it is requesting that eyecare practices offering Wales General Ophthalmic Services (WGOS) complete one form for each DO who provides, assists or supports in the provision of ophthalmic services within their premises or in a mobile setting – by the deadline of 31 March 2024.
Inclusion on the list does not in itself convey permission to perform or provide episodes of care in WGOS (click here to view the requirements to deliver WGOS).
The form must be completed and submitted by the ophthalmic contractor or those who are not defined as an ophthalmic contractor in accordance with the NHS Ophthalmic Services (Wales) Regulations 2023, i.e. those who will require a service agreement(s) to provide WGOS 3, 4 and/or 5 only. In doing so, those who complete the form must inform the DO that their details have been shared in accordance with the above directions.
Max Halford, ABDO clinical lead, said: “The move to create an administrative list for dispensing opticians in Wales is a positive step forward for our members in the nation. I would urge colleagues to ensure a response is sent from their practice as soon as possible at this request from the NWSSP. ABDO is committed to supporting the creation of the list in Wales, as it will help with the development and support available to DOs across the nation.”
Anyone experiencing any problems in accessing the form should contact the Contracts Management Department via nwssp-primarycareservices@wales.nhs.uk