During its recent virtual meeting on 24–25 September, the General Optical Council (GOC) approved updated Standards of Practice for Optometrists and Dispensing Opticians, as well as refreshed guidelines for Optical Students and Optical Businesses. These new standards, which will come into effect on 1 January 2025, align with the start of the new CPD cycle. They introduce key updates designed to enhance patient care, promote ethical practices, and support ongoing professional development.
This post will guide you through these latest updates, focusing on the key elements that are shaping how optometrists and dispensing opticians will continue to provide high-quality care and support to patients in line with the refreshed standards.
Standards of practice are crucial in ensuring that healthcare professionals are equipped to meet the needs of their patients while adhering to the highest professional and ethical standards. In optometry, these standards cover everything from patient interactions to the safe use of new technologies and procedures. Updated guidelines provide a clear framework for how optometrists and dispensing opticians can operate safely, ethically, and effectively, ultimately improving patient outcomes and trust in the profession.
The General Optical Council (GOC) Standards of Practice set clear expectations for the behaviours, attitudes, conduct, and professional practice of registrants. They define the minimum level of care that patients and the public can expect from optical professionals and serve as a guide in assessing the fitness to practice of individuals within the field.
The recent changes to these standards come after an extensive consultation process involving key stakeholders, including patients and the wider public. This collaborative approach ensures that the updated standards reflect both advancements in practice and shifts in societal expectations. For instance, the growing use of digital technologies in optometry has been integrated into the new guidelines, acknowledging the impact of these tools on both patient care and the profession. Additionally, more emphasis has been placed on the importance of registrants identifying themselves and their roles during consultations, aligning with patients’ increasing demand for transparency and clarity in healthcare interactions.
The updates made are designed to enhance the clarity and alignment of the GOC standards, ensuring they reflect emerging changes within the sector. While the majority of the existing standards remain unchanged, key modifications have been introduced in the following areas:
The revised standards will be officially launched on 1 January 2025, replacing the current ones. Until that date, the existing standards will remain in effect. You can view the revised standards on the GOC website ahead of their launch. Once the updated standards are in place, it will be mandatory for you to follow them.
In the coming weeks, there will be several opportunities for you to learn more about the changes and their impact. Be sure to stay updated for more information as Autumn progresses.
As the launch of the revised GOC Standards of Practice approaches, you must prepare for a new era of professionalism and patient care. These updates provide an opportunity to embrace advancements in technology, promote inclusive workplace cultures, and enhance patient trust. By familiarising yourself with the new standards and engaging with upcoming learning opportunities, you’ll be ready to lead the way in delivering high-quality, ethical care. The future of optometry is evolving—make sure you’re prepared to meet it head-on.
At Verovian Optical Recruitment Agency, we understand the importance of staying ahead in your profession, especially as industry standards continue to evolve. Whether you're a seasoned optometrist or a dispensing optician, we’re here to help you find a role that aligns with your skills, experience, and career goals. Explore our wide range of job opportunities and take the next step towards a fulfilling and rewarding career.
As World Mental Health Day 2024 approaches, the focus turns to an essential theme: It is time to prioritise mental health in the workplace. Established by the World Federation for Mental Health in 1992 and observed annually on October 10th, this day serves as a global platform to raise awareness about mental health issues and advocate for well-being. This year's theme highlights the urgent need to prioritise mental wellbeing in the workplace, especially for healthcare professionals. Their roles often involve long hours, emotional strain, and life-or-death decision-making, all of which can significantly impact their mental health.
This blog post looks into innovative strategies and actionable insights for practice owners and hiring managers on creating a supportive work environment that nurtures mental health.
Mental wellbeing in the workplace refers to the emotional, psychological, and social well-being of employees. It encompasses how individuals think, feel, and behave in their work environment and is influenced by a variety of factors, including workplace culture, job demands, and available support systems.
In the workplace, particularly in high-stress sectors like healthcare, the importance of mental health cannot be overstated. Here are several reasons why mental health matters:
Good mental health is directly linked to increased productivity and performance. According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), mental health issues, including anxiety and depression, significantly impact an employee's ability to perform effectively. Research by the Mental Health Foundation found that workplaces prioritising mental health experienced reductions in absenteeism and improved staff retention, showcasing that supporting employees’ mental wellbeing is beneficial for the organisation's bottom line.
Mental health significantly affects employee satisfaction and overall well-being. Employees who feel mentally healthy are more engaged, motivated, and likely to contribute positively to the workplace culture. Conversely, poor mental health can lead to burnout, high turnover rates, and lower morale.
A focus on mental health can contribute to a more positive workplace culture. Companies that foster an environment of openness and support can reduce stigma around mental health discussions. This cultural shift encourages employees to seek help when needed and promotes a sense of belonging and community within the workplace.
Employers have a legal and ethical obligation to protect their employees' mental health. The Health and Safety at Work Act 1974 requires employers to ensure the health, safety, and welfare of their employees, which extends to mental wellbeing. Failure to address mental health in the workplace can lead to legal repercussions and damage the organisation's reputation.
Neglecting mental health can lead to long-term health issues for employees, including chronic stress, anxiety disorders, and depression. These issues can result in increased healthcare costs for employers and decreased quality of life for employees. By prioritising mental health, organisations can foster a healthier workforce and mitigate the risk of long-term health complications.
Mental health challenges are increasingly common in the workplace, particularly within high-stress environments like healthcare. The World Health Organisation estimates that depression and anxiety disorders cost the global economy approximately $1 trillion each year in lost productivity. Alarmingly, around one in four healthcare workers report experiencing mental health issues, underscoring the urgent need for effective interventions.
A survey conducted by the British Medical Association (BMA) reveals that nearly 40% of healthcare professionals are grappling with conditions such as anxiety and depression. The Royal College of Nursing (RCN) highlights that existing mental health support systems often fall short, with staff frequently facing long shifts, inadequate resources, and significant emotional challenges. Additionally, the Royal College of Psychiatrists points out that staff shortages and overwhelming service demand have resulted in lengthy waiting times for mental health treatment. Consequently, there is a growing call for employers to prioritise mental health and wellbeing by providing decent working conditions for their employees. Addressing these concerns is vital to prevent high turnover rates, improve job satisfaction, and ensure the quality of patient care.
All workers have the right to a safe and healthy environment at work. In high-stress sectors like healthcare, creating a supportive workplace for mental health is especially vital. By implementing practical strategies, employers can cultivate a culture that prioritises well-being and resilience among their staff. Below are some key steps that can make a significant impact:
Encouraging open conversations about mental health is essential for reducing stigma. Employers can normalise these discussions through regular team check-ins, providing safe, confidential platforms for employees to express concerns. An example of this is offering regular, anonymous surveys where staff can highlight any mental health issues, ensuring early intervention.
Develop mental health policies that make support easily accessible. Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs), such as those offered by Health Assured, provide a range of counselling services and wellness initiatives that should be readily available. Additionally, offering mental health days as part of the company's leave policy sends a strong message that well-being is a priority.
Building a culture that values work-life balance is crucial in reducing stress. Flexibility in working hours or remote work options allows employees to manage their personal and professional lives effectively. Regular recognition of achievements, even small ones, can also boost morale and decrease stress.
Peer support can be highly effective in maintaining mental well-being at work. Encourage teams to form peer support groups where colleagues can check in on one another. In healthcare settings, where the emotional toll can be high, having someone to talk to who understands the challenges can make a significant difference.
Mental health training shouldn't just be for managers—offering training to all employees equips them with tools to manage stress and spot signs of mental health issues in colleagues. Practical workshops on stress management, mindfulness, and resilience can empower staff to take control of their well-being.
Physical health is deeply connected to mental well-being. Employers can support physical health through wellness initiatives like exercise programs, access to fitness facilities, or incentivised health activities. Encouraging movement throughout the day, like walking meetings or stretching breaks, can reduce stress and improve mental clarity.
High workloads are a major contributor to mental health issues, particularly in healthcare. Employers should regularly assess and adjust workloads to ensure that employees are not overburdened. Offering job-sharing opportunities or additional administrative support can help distribute the workload more evenly, preventing burnout.
Encouraging staff to take regular, meaningful breaks helps maintain mental clarity and reduce stress. For healthcare professionals, implementing rota systems that ensure sufficient rest between shifts is crucial to prevent exhaustion. A well-rested employee is more productive, less likely to make mistakes, and better equipped to handle the emotional demands of the job.
As we approach World Mental Health Day 2024, it’s evident that prioritising mental health in the workplace is not just a moral obligation; it’s a strategic imperative. Investing in mental health not only benefits employees but also enhances your organisation’s overall performance. By fostering a positive environment, offering flexible work options, and providing essential mental health resources, employers can empower healthcare professionals to thrive both personally and professionally.
Now is the time to take action. Join the movement to make mental health a priority in your workplace. Implement policies that promote well-being, train your teams, and ensure that mental health support is not just available but easily accessible.
Partner with Verovian Optical Recruitment Agency to build a team that meets your staffing needs and creates a supportive, healthy workplace culture. Our recruitment experts understand the importance of mental well-being in the healthcare sector and are committed to matching you with professionals who not only bring clinical expertise but also share your vision for a compassionate and balanced environment. By choosing Verovian Healthcare, you're investing in a workforce that promotes collaboration, reduces burnout, and fosters overall employee satisfaction—ensuring your team thrives both professionally and mentally.
In the ever-evolving landscape of healthcare, particularly within optical practice, the pursuit of excellence is not just a goal—it’s an ongoing journey. At the heart of this journey lies Continuing Professional Development (CPD), a crucial pillar for optometrists and optical practitioners dedicated to delivering top-tier care.
This blog explores the multifaceted role of CPD in the optical profession. We’ll delve into how CPD not only enhances clinical skills and knowledge but also empowers practitioners to adapt to new technologies and embrace emerging best practices.
Enhanced Skills and Knowledge:
Staying current with the latest advancements in optical practice is essential, and CPD ensures that you continually build on your knowledge and skills, enabling you to offer the highest quality care. As the optical industry evolves, with new technologies and innovations regularly emerging, CPD helps you seamlessly integrate these advancements into your practice. Whether you’re learning to use new diagnostic tools or incorporating digital solutions for patient care, ongoing education through CPD keeps your practice up-to-date, efficient, and aligned with the latest industry standards.
Career Advancement:
Engaging in CPD opens doors to career progression. As you expand your expertise, you may qualify for higher-level positions, specialisations, or leadership roles within your practice or organisation. It also enhances your competitiveness in the job market, as employers often seek professionals who demonstrate a commitment to their field through continuous learning.
Professional Credibility:
Consistently participating in CPD activities bolsters your professional reputation. It showcases your commitment to maintaining high standards in your practice and your dedication to delivering the best possible care to your patients. This credibility can lead to greater trust from both patients and colleagues, further establishing you as a respected expert in your field.
Improved Patient Outcomes:
The ultimate goal of ongoing learning is to improve patient care. By staying informed about the latest developments in optometry and related fields, you’re better equipped to diagnose, treat, and manage a wide range of eye health issues. This not only leads to better patient outcomes but also increases patient satisfaction and loyalty.
Compliance with Regulatory Requirements:
Participating in CPD is often a mandatory requirement for maintaining your professional license. Regularly updating your knowledge and skills through CPD ensures that you remain compliant with industry regulations and avoid any legal or professional issues that could arise from non-compliance.
The General Optical Council (GOC) mandates that optical professionals complete specific Continuing Professional Development (CPD) requirements to stay current with industry advancements. These activities must span four core domains: Professionalism, Communication, Clinical Practice, and Leadership & Accountability. By December 31, 2024, which marks the end of the current CPD cycle, all dispensing opticians and optometrists must accrue at least 36 CPD points, including 18 interactive points and a peer review. Dispensing opticians on the contact lens specialty register must also earn 18 points in the contact lens domain and complete a contact lens peer review.
CPD activities for optical professionals in the UK can be broadly categorized into formal and informal options, each offering unique learning opportunities.
Formal CPD activities are structured and typically involve direct interaction with peers or educators. These activities, often organised by accredited providers, are essential for meeting professional standards.
Informal CPD activities are more flexible and allow professionals to tailor their learning to their specific needs. These activities may not always result in formal qualifications, but they are invaluable for continuous professional development.
Time Management: Balancing CPD with your daily responsibilities can be challenging. Consider scheduling regular time slots for CPD activities or integrating learning into your routine workday to ensure consistency.
Selecting the Right CPD Activities: Choose the activities that are relevant to your role and interests. For example, if you’re an optical dispenser, workshops on new lens technologies or patient communication techniques may be particularly beneficial.
Building a CPD Plan: Create a structured plan that outlines your learning goals and tracks your progress. This plan can help you stay organised and ensure that you meet your professional development objectives.
Continuing Professional Development (CPD) is more than just a regulatory requirement; it’s essential for maintaining excellence in optical practice. By committing to ongoing learning, you not only refine your skills and expand your knowledge but also enhance the quality of care you provide to your patients.
At Verovian Optical Agency, we believe that your career deserves the best opportunities. While we specialise in offering amazing job opportunities to optical professionals across the UK, we encourage you to make continuous learning a cornerstone of your career. Explore the wide range of CPD opportunities available, create a structured plan for continuous learning, and remain dedicated to achieving the highest standards in your practice. Register with us today, and let’s take your career to the next level together!
In the dynamic landscape of today's workforce, locum professionals play a vital role in meeting the growing demand for temporary positions in the optical industry across the UK. Navigating the locum environment can be exciting and challenging. One key factor that can significantly enhance your locum experience is partnering with a reputable agency. In this article, we will explore the importance of working with an Agency as a locum professional and the benefits it brings to your career.
Streamlined Job Search
Locum agencies serve as invaluable intermediaries between professionals and employers, offering access to a vast network of job opportunities. Instead of spending hours scouring job boards or handling the logistics of job applications, agencies streamline the process, connecting you with positions that align with your skills and preferences. This not only saves time but increases the likelihood of finding the perfect locum assignment quickly.
Administrative Support
The administrative aspects of locum work can be overwhelming. Agencies can step in to handle paperwork, contracts, and the intricacies of licensing and credentialing processes. This support not only ensures compliance with regulations but also allows you to focus on what you do best, providing quality care. While the agency takes care of the administrative burden.
Negotiation and Compensation
Securing fair compensation and benefits is a crucial aspect of any job, and locum professionals are no exception. Agencies have dedicated teams to negotiate competitive rates on your behalf. This will not only ensure that you are appropriately compensated for your skills and experience but also simplify the negotiation process, making it a win-win for both you and the hiring institution.
Flexibility and Variety of Assignments
One of the key characteristics of locum work is the flexibility it offers. They enhance this flexibility by providing access to a diverse range of assignments. Whether you are interested in exploring different specialties, settings, or locations, working with an agency opens doors to a variety of opportunities, allowing you to tailor your locum experience to your professional and personal preferences.
Risk Mitigation and Professional Guidance
Navigating the legal and regulatory landscape of locum work can be complex. Agencies can serve as valuable guides, offering professional advice on everything from compliance issues to career decisions. In challenging work situations, having an agency by your side provides a support system, helping you navigate difficulties and ensuring a positive locum experience.
Building a Long-Term Relationship with an Agency
Establishing a long-term relationship with a locum agency goes beyond securing individual assignments. It is about building trust and maintaining open communication. our reliable agency becomes a partner in your career journey, offering ongoing support, insights, and opportunities for continuous growth. Testimonials and success stories from locum professionals highlight the strength of these enduring partnerships.
At Verovian Optical Agency, we are a specialist in Locum Recruitment for Optical Professionals across the United Kingdom. We take pride in building a strong reputation for our innovative methods, guaranteeing satisfaction and results by providing locum assignments tailored to your preferences. Our user-friendly platform and mobile application will help you manage your assignments and schedules, book shifts, and communicate with colleagues effortlessly, even when you are on the move. As part of our registered members, you become part of a team that positively influences lives every day. You will thrive in diverse environments, honing your skills while adapting to varying practices. Our clients rely on us for top-notch Locum Professionals, ensuring a steady flow of assignments all year round. Furthermore, you will be opportune to work closely with our dedicated consultants and earn a referral bonus of up to £200.
In conclusion, working with a locum agency is not just about finding jobs, it is about shaping a fulfilling and rewarding career. The advantages of streamlined job searches, administrative support, negotiation assistance, flexibility, risk mitigation, and ongoing professional guidance make the partnership with an agency indispensable for locum professionals. As you embark on your locum journey, consider the possibilities that a reputable agency like Verovian Optical Recruitment Agency can offer in enhancing your career.
In today’s world, Locum Opticians are evolving around the professional landscape and have gained more ground in the optical industry. It doesn't matter whether you are a professional searching for a flexible work arrangement or a newly qualified contact lens or dispensing optician looking for an eye care clinic where you can start building your career. Locum work will create an avenue for you within the optical industry.
This blog post will help you understand the concept behind the locum optician profession by highlighting the benefits, challenges, and tips on how to become a successful Locum Optician.
It's important to note that while there are numerous benefits to working as a locum optician, it may also come with challenges such as lack of job security, potential for career growth, financial reward, and the need to quickly adapt to new environments. Individuals considering locum work should weigh the advantages and potential drawbacks based on their personal and professional goals.
Here are some of the challenges Locum Opticians face:
Verovian Recruitment Agency plays a pivotal role in connecting Locum Opticians with rewarding job opportunities, simplifying the job search process, and providing ongoing support throughout their assignments.
Via our Optical Recruitment Agency, locum opticians have the opportunity to gain exposure to a range of assignments. This diversity fosters their professional development and expands their expertise across various optical settings.
Register with us to start a fulfilling career in locum
Exploring the realm of locum optician gives you the chance to design your career the way you want. The flexibility and rewarding career path make it an exciting journey for those seeking something beyond working in a permanent place.
If you are a professional or newly qualified dispensing or contact lens optician looking for an exciting path and ready to improve in various sections of your profession, embrace the world of locum and start a rewarding and exciting journey to success.
Opticians play a crucial role in ensuring the well-being of the human most precious sense organ (eye). Locum opticians, experience a unique journey that takes them through diverse clinical settings, patient interactions, and challenging cases.
In this blog post, we will look into the enthralling world of locum opticians, exploring their customary experiences, challenges, and impact on society.
The world of a locum optician is characterized by a blend of adaptability, continuous learning, diverse experiences, and the opportunity to make a positive impact on patient eye care. It is a profession that thrives on change and embraces the challenges of working in different settings. For those who enjoy variety and the satisfaction of contributing to eye health across various practices, being a locum optician offers a rich and fulfilling career path.
The dynamic lifestyle of locum opticians offers them exposure to various work environments, patient demographics, and eye care technologies.
However, the challenges that come with being a locum optician only serve to enhance the journey, building an adaptable and competent professional.
Despite the challenges, locum opticians play a crucial role in the eye care system.
Here are some of the impacts of Locum Opticians on society
At Verovian Optical Agency, we offer essential assistance for Contact lenses and dispensing opticians in getting job opportunities. Within our agency, we maintain broad networks and collaborations with well-regarded optical establishments, including optical clinics.
We link skilled locum opticians with relevant job opportunities that align with their expertise, background, and preferences.
Also, we streamline the application and placement process, making it more efficient for locum opticians. We can assist with paperwork, credentialing, and other administrative tasks, reducing the burden on our registered members.
In the chronicles of locum opticians, with our top-notch quality services as a locum agency, we help you make every standard resonate with mastery and adaptability.
The ability of locum opticians to seamlessly combine various eye care settings and provide exceptional care showcases their dedication to their profession. They play an indispensable role in upholding the gift of sight.
If you're a dispensing or contact lens optician seeking a dynamic and rewarding path, choose the visionary path of unmatched excellence by embracing the adventure of being a locum optician.
Register with us at Verovian Optical Agency to start a fulfilling career in Locum.
The workforce management landscape is constantly evolving in all disciplines; in the healthcare industry in particular. Healthcare organisations must stay ahead of the curve to remain competitive in today's fast-paced business environment. From automation and artificial intelligence to remote work and flexible schedules, workforce management is undergoing a profound transformation. In this blog post, we will take a look at some of the trends and predictions that are shaping the future of workforce management.
Automation and artificial intelligence are revolutionising the way Healthcare facilities and practices manage their workforce. Working with brands like locumbooking.com and Verovian Healthcare where chatbots and self- service portals are deployed to obtain predictive analytics and automated scheduling. This allows our partners to seamlessly manage all the healthcare professional resources available to them, manage agencies, bank staff, travel nurses, and other healthcare professionals. AI is making it easier for healthcare companies to manage and optimise their workforce in real-time. In the future, we can expect to see an even greater emphasis on automation and AI in the workforce management industry. The healthcare industry is one of the fastest-growing sectors in the world. This means that there will continue to be a strong demand for workers, which makes it even more important for companies to find ways to optimize their workforce. Partnership with the right recruitment agency will optimise your practice in attracting and retaining the best healthcare professionals to fit your practice culture and values.
We are a leading healthcare recruitment agency with over 10 years of experience in the industry. Our team of consultants specialise in providing a bespoke service that is tailored to your specific needs. We work closely with our clients to understand their culture and practice objectives so that we can find the best candidates for them.
Remote work has been on the rise for years, and the COVID-19 pandemic has accelerated this trend. With employees seeking greater flexibility and the ability to work from anywhere, companies are adapting by offering more flexible work arrangements and remote work options. General Practitioners (GPs), Nurses, Pharmacists (Independent prescribers), Social workers, and many healthcare professionals are working from home more than ever. In the future, we can expect to see an increase in remote work and flexible scheduling as a permanent fixture of the modern workforce. Remote working comes with its own technological demands. Healthcare facilities must ensure the right tools, security and communication methods are in place to support the new ways of working.
Employee engagement and wellness are becoming increasingly important in the world of workforce management. Companies are recognizing the need to create a supportive and empowering work environment to attract and retain top talent. From wellness programs and employee recognition initiatives to flexible work arrangements and career development opportunities, companies are investing in their employees to improve engagement and overall satisfaction. The benefits of employee engagement and wellness include lower turnover rates, improved productivity, and reduced healthcare costs. The future of work will be an environment where employees feel valued, respected and supported. A recent Gallup poll found that only 30% of employees are engaged at work. A majority of workers (55%) are “not engaged” and 15% are “actively disengaged”. The results indicate that companies need to do more than just offer traditional benefits like health insurance and paid time off. Employees want opportunities for development, recognition, and support in order for them to feel valued and motivated by their jobs.
we can expect to see an increase in remote work and flexible scheduling as a permanent fixture of the modern workforce.
Data-driven decision-making is becoming increasingly important in workforce management. With the rise of big data and advanced analytics, healthcare facilities are using data to make informed decisions about their workforce. From predictive analytics to real-time reporting and metrics, companies are using data to optimize their workforce and make better business decisions with respect to staffing, scheduling, and recruitment. When it comes to workforce planning and management, the data needs to be accessible and actionable for facility leaders. This can be achieved by implementing tools that integrate data from multiple sources into a single platform.
Here are five ways that data-driven decision-making can help healthcare facilities optimize their workforce:
A. Staffing: Data-driven staffing allows healthcare facilities to make decisions based on concrete data rather than hunches or intuition. This allows facilities to optimize their staff levels, schedule shifts more efficiently and effectively, and reduce overtime expenses. This helps to manage contingency planning, bank staff, locum bookings and healthcare professional workforce hiring and planning.
B. Scheduling: Data-driven scheduling allows facilities to accurately predict patient volume and staffing needs, which helps them optimize their staff levels and reduce overtime expenses.
C. Recruitment: Data-driven recruitment enables facilities to attract, train, recruit and retain employees who will be most likely to succeed in their roles. This reduces attrition rates within the team, and optimises staffing level at healthcare practices. In turn, reduces overtime and excessive contingency staffing.
D. Training: Data-driven training allows facilities to identify gaps in employee skill sets and create personalised learning plans that address those deficiencies. This may be soft skills including improving communication skills with patients, or certification to address growing concerns. Data-driven training improves the efficacy and professionalism of the entire healthcare team.
E. Talent Management: Data-driven talent management allows facilities to identify high-performing employees, understand what makes them successful, and replicate their success throughout the organization. This helps them optimize their workforce and reduce overtime expenses.
The future of workforce management is rapidly changing and evolving. From automation and artificial intelligence to remote work and flexible scheduling, companies must stay ahead of the curve to remain competitive in today's fast-paced business environment. By embracing these trends and predictions, companies can create a supportive and empowering work environment that attracts and retains top talent, while driving business success.
