Research on Commercial Practices and Patient Safety in Eye Care

The General Optical Council is seeking to commission qualitative research to explore commercial practices in the eye care sector and their impact on patient safety. This research aims to gather insights from various stakeholders, including GOC registrants (optometrists and dispensing opticians), non-GOC regulated eye care staff (such as optical assistants), optical businesses (both registered and non-registered), and patient representative groups. The selected contractor will be responsible for designing and conducting the research, as well as analyzing and reporting the findings. The objectives of the research include: - Understanding the nature and extent of commercial practices in the eye care sector. - Identifying any negative impacts on patients and the public. - Assessing the effects on individual registrants (optometrists and dispensing opticians). - Gathering perspectives from businesses on balancing safe patient care with commercial operations. - Recommending actions for the GOC and the wider eye care sector to mitigate any adverse effects on patients, the public, and registrants. The budget for this project is capped at £40,000, including VAT and all contractor costs. Proposals exceeding this amount will not be considered. Tenders must be submitted by 5 PM on November 27, 2025. For inquiries, please contact Angharad Jones (Policy Manager) at ajones@optical.org.