In operation since 2002, Optometry Scotland is governed by a Council and Executive Committee, including independent and multiple representatives and members of the Association of Optometrists (AOP), Federation of Optometrists and Dispensing Opticians (FODO), the College of Optometrists and the Association of British Dispensing Opticians (ABDO), alongside an operations team based in Glasgow.
Optometry Scotland’s membership is made up of 370 members from the Highlands and Islands, right down to the Borders. This includes a mix of independent opticians and most of the major multiples including Boots, Duncan and Todd, Black and Lizars, Vision Express, Specsavers and Hakim Group.
Dedicated to representing optical professions in Scotland, Optometry Scotland is here to support our members with strategic advice, continuing professional development (CPD) opportunities and a strong collective voice which has positive influence at Government level, benefiting your business and bottom line, while preserving the integrity of General Ophthalmic Services (GOS) and ensuring Scotland remains at the forefront of eye health care.
Our Vision
To advance world class eye care in Scotland.
Our Mission
To sustain community eyecare services, mobilise the sector to influence policy and enhance service delivery and build strong relationships ensuring Scotland remains at the forefront of eye health care.
Our Values
Transparency
We are open in our actions and decisions.
Collaboration
We learn from each other and achieve more together.
Respect
We recognise the value, and champion fair treatment and opportunity for all.
What we do
Optometry Scotland is the first point of contact for all health officials and external bodies in Scotland and represents the optical sector in Scotland. As the voice of the optical professions, Optometry Scotland’s objective is to preserve the integrity of GOS.
Our priorities are:
- To lead the GOS and Service Enhancement Agenda
- To Influence Policy Direction and Workforce Development for Community
- To Build a Collaborative Voice
We will do this by:
- Lobbying Scottish Government to achieve sustainable funding mechanisms and enhanced status for the profession
- Liaising with membership and key stakeholders to ensure their views influence policy development and delivery of eye health care
- Supporting our membership to guide, inform and develop both business and individuals
"OS has been at the forefront of everything good that's happened in Scottish Optometry over the last 2 decades. They've built extensive and valuable relationships in Government which has been able to move the profession forward and continues to represent our interests at a national level"
Ian Cameron, Cameron Optometry
Achievements
Achieved a 6% increase in GOS fees for 2023/24
Achieved a 4.5% increase in GOS fees for 2022/23
Achieved a 3% increase in GOS fees for 2021/22
Secured £1.2m to increase Supplementary Eye Examination Fees from April 2017
Achieved £450,000 pachymetry funding
Secured £1.5m for Enhanced Supplementary Eye Examinations from October 2018
Increased shift in balance of primary eye care to optometry
Meet the Team
Optometry Scotland Constitution
For further details about our fundamental principles, read the Optometry Scotland Constitution