Independent Prescribing for Optometrists

Independent Prescribing for Optometrists

To become an Independent Prescribing Optometrist, there is a three-step process:

  1. A period of University based training, which can be done via the Independent Prescribing for Optometrist Course at Glasgow Caledonian University. This is approved by the General Optical Council.
  2. Undertake a clinical placement. The clinical placement can only be started after successful completion of the University based training. The clinical placement is run by the College of Optometrists and entails completing a clinical practice placement, usually under the mentorship of an ophthalmologist, and logbook. The GOC requires that students must start the clinical placement within two years of completing a specialist therapeutics University course and students must have a minimum of two years in practice following registration as an Optometrist before starting the clinical placement.
  3. Final examination. This is run by the College of Optometrists. Optometrists must undertake the final examination within two years of completing the clinical placement.

For further information about steps two and three, visit the College’s website. The rest of this page contains information regarding how to become an Independent Prescribing Optometrist through the Independent Prescribing for Optometrist Course at Glasgow Caledonian University.