College of Optometrists launches consultation on new Guidance for Professional Practice

The College of Optometrists has opened a six-week public consultation on the next edition of its Guidance for Professional Practice, the document that sets clinical and professional standards for optometrists across the UK.

The College has described the update as the most significant revision in the Guidance's history, with three brand-new sections proposed alongside more than 75 amendments to existing content.

The new sections cover artificial intelligence and emerging technologies, the expanding scope of optometric practice, and culture and governance within optical businesses. The governance section would explicitly state that practices must not use scheduling practices that put patient safety at risk, such as routine overbooking, and must allow adequate appointment time for patients with additional needs.

Other proposed changes touch on myopia management and the use of professional titles, updated infection prevention and control requirements, glaucoma referral pathways, and a new duty of candour that would apply to all registrants.

Clinical adviser Denise Voon said the changes are designed to reflect the realities of modern practice, including the growing use of AI, evolving clinical roles, and the need for workplace cultures that support sound professional judgement.

The consultation is open to College members, eye care professionals and patients, and runs until 3 August 2026. Feedback will inform the fifth edition of the Guidance, due to be published in winter 2026.

Responses can be submitted via the College of Optometrists website.