Contract Compliance Framework
Contract Compliance is about ensuring that a practice complies with all aspects of the GOS contract. NHS Primary Care Contracting have recently (2009) developed a Framework for Contract Compliance which comprises a list of points that PCTs should consider when carrying out regular (usually three yearly) practice visits.
Lone Worker Policy
To ensure compliance
If you have staff who work alone, or who are ever alone in the practice or are isolated in a part of the practice, you should have procedures in place for their safety and security.
The PCT policy can be found above. You may wish to install an alarm and keep records of any incidents.
For more information on lone working and the safety of employees who work alone visit the Health and Safety Executive website.
Chaperone Policy
To ensure compliance
Contractors should ensure that any advice received in relation to chaperone policies is available for reference by all staff in the practice.
A model policy for the profession is available on the AOP website or you can look at the PCT policy above.
Further information is included in the College of Optometrists Guidelines.
Child protection
PCTs should ensure optical practices know who to contact with concerns about children.
To ensure compliance
Contact your local PCT and/or Child Protection Team for contact details and ensure that these are available in the practice.
Practitioners ought to take advice before reporting any concerns and keep careful records of their actions and observations.
Contractors should ensure any advice received from the PCT is available for reference by all staff in the practice.
More information is in the NICE Child Maltreatment Quick-Reference Guide.
The College of Optometrists also have guidance available. (para C1.10 et seq)
