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Proposed Regulatory Framework For Optometrists And Opticians In Singapore
Posted on Saturday, September 17, 2005 - 12:00 AM

The Ministry of Health is proposing to implement a statutory regulatory framework to regulate the practice of optometry and opticianry in Singapore and seeks the public's views, comments and feedback on this issue.

Press Release:-

Introduction

The Ministry of Health is proposing to implement a statutory regulatory framework to regulate the practice of optometry and opticianry in Singapore and seeks the public's views, comments and feedback on this issue.

Please provide your comments and views in the feedback area below. All feedback should reach the Ministry by 24 October 2005.

Reason for and Benefits of a Statutory Regulatory Framework

Given the high prevalence of myopia and rapid aging of our population, we need properly trained optometrists and opticians to ensure high standards of eye care.

With the implementation of a statutory regulatory framework, the public can benefit from better eye care as we enhance our capacity for eye care in the community. Individuals requiring eye care services can be assured that they are served by properly trained and certified optometrists and opticians. A system to discipline errant practitioners will be put in place. Optometrists and opticians will also benefit from regulation as it will assist in the development of their profession.

Proposed Framework

MOH proposes that an Optometrists and Opticians Board (OOB) be set up to register optometrists and opticians, set professional guidelines and initiate disciplinary action against errant practitioners. It will determine the necessary qualifications for registration and oversee continuing professional education for optometrists and opticians.

In designing the proposed framework, MOH recognizes the need to ensure that the livelihoods of current practitioners are not affected. All currently practicing contact lens practitioners will be registered as optometrists or opticians. Opticians with practical experience in refraction and general opticianry but have no formal qualifications will also be eligible to apply for registration. MOH will help them attain the necessary standards though an upgrading course which will be tailored to suit their needs. The length and scope of this course will be kept to reasonable standards.

Both opticians and optometrists would be allowed to continue most of their current scope of practice. This includes refraction and dispensing of spectacles to adults and children from Primary Two and above which makes up the bulk of their current practice. However, MOH proposes that children in Primary One or younger who require refraction should be seen by either an ophthalmologist or an optometrist. Optometrists can also conduct basic eye screening and basic eye care if they have been properly trained to do so. However, they must still refer patients with conditions requiring medical or surgical management to an ophthalmologist or an appropriate medical practitioner immediately upon suspicion or diagnosis.

Implementation Timeframe

MOH proposes that registration commence on 2 Jan 2007 and the new regulatory framework come into effect on 1 July 2007.

Conclusion

MOH feels that introducing a regulatory framework for optometrists and opticians will benefit both the public and the profession. We welcome and value your feedback on this proposed framework.

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