The Association of British Dispensing Opticians (ABDO) has responded to the NHS England long term workforce plan.
Published on 30 June, the NHS Long Term Workforce Plan has acknowledged the part that primary eyecare providers can play in delivering additional eyecare services and improving patient outcomes.
The publication represents the first time the government has asked the NHS to deliver a comprehensive workforce plan, described by NHS chief executive Amanda Pritchard, as "a once-in-a-generation opportunity to put staffing on a sustainable footing and improve patient care".
Commenting on the publication, ABDO CEO Alistair Bridge said: "ABDO welcomes the publication of the NHS Long Term Workforce Plan and its recognition of the role of primary eyecare practitioners. Dispensing opticians have a key role to play and much to contribute within primary eyecare as often they are the first clinician a patient will encounter on arriving in practice and are well placed to advise and support patients with their eye health needs. We look forward to working with our colleagues in the sector to support an NHS that's fit for the future."
Read the full plan here.
