FODO name change accepted at AGM

This weeks FODO AGM sees the name change in dropping “Ophthalmic Opticians” and changing to “Optometrists” 

This week saw one of the last occasions where the word “Ophthalmic” has been exchanged for Optometrist in regard to a Primary Eye Care Body.

FODO, is now The Federation of Optometrists and Dispensing Opticians. 

In a change to Article 45, the proposal was accepted by a unanimous vote of the Directors following unanimous acceptance by the membership.

FODO over the last year has added to its logo the strap line The Association of Eye Care Providers which demonstrates the breadth of its concern and care for professionals providing primary care roles within the sector, optometrists, dispensing opticians, optical technicians and assistants and the businesses that they work within.

FODO says that annually its members provide over 18 million sight-tests in the UK out of around 23 million carried out each year.

Over the years FODO working often behind the scenes has used this substantial core base to promote Optics UK for all the UK countries, under the FODO banner as well as under FODO Ireland.  It has also taken a leading role in audiology under their separate auspices of the NCHA. (National Community Hearing Association).

FODO has been for many years a supporter of many independents as well as the larger and smaller group practices.

Its Medical malpractice insurance – protecting you in the event of a clinical negligence claim and more.and its robust Defence of professionals and businesses – supporting professionals over regulatory and disciplinary issues with the General Optical Council and other health regulators has led the way to its dominance in the primary eyecare sector.

At the AGM, held on 10th May remotely, Sarah Joyce, FODO Group chair, said: “The Group has had another very strong year. Our excellent membership offering is second to none and the leadership roles FODO, FODO Ireland and NCHA play in shaping the future of eye and hearing care are clear for all to see.”

Harjit Sandhu, managing director, said: “We continue to horizon scan on behalf of members and lead on responding to opportunities and risks to help protect and advance the sector. We want to thank all members for being part of this community of providers – together, we will continue to help you succeed.”

The AGM saw the launch of a very significant document by FODO named, “The future of primary eye care – principles and priorities – Building on the views, experiences and ambitions of FODO members and patients, it sets out FODO UK’s priorities for 2023-2026. (Read the separate story with links here.)

What was also a significant step change announced at the AGM is that FODO with its unique dominant role in Primary Eyecare intends to ramp up its identity to the sector and ensure that eyecare professionals understand the key role it is playing on their behalf.

In their own words FODO states, “Traditionally, FODO has done more strategic influencing and troubleshooting behind the scenes, which will continue. Principles and priorities for primary eye care is, however, the start of the Group rightly taking a more proactive approach with public-facing communications about the work it does on behalf of members and for the wider sector. FODO Ireland and NCHA will also be promoting more of their work in 2023 and beyond.”

FODO annual report for 2022 was published this week and can be read here

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