Tue 06 August 19 | 2019 AGM Papers
Following on from the AGM held on 05 June 2019 the papers in relation to the event are below. Annual Report Hampshire LOC Accounts18_19 Southampton MECS Report LOCSU Update AGM Minutes

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Mon 22 July 19 | Low Value Medications
Over the last 2 years NHS England having been undertaking consultations on medicines that are commonly prescribed and either have little clinical evidence to support their use or might be available Over The Counter( OTC) at chemists without prescription. This has resulted in the publication of national guidance as linked here https://www.england.nhs.uk/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/items-which-should-not-be-routinely-precscribed-in-pc-ccg-guidance.pdf https://www.england.nhs.uk/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/otc-guidance-for-ccgs.pdf Of particular relevance to opticians and optometrists is the advice that lutein and antioxidants ( eg vitamins A C E and zinc should not be prescribed for age related macular degeneration ( ARMD) as there is insufficient evidence to support this and that if patients want to use these or continue to use them then they should purchase them themselves. In addition both conjunctivitis and dry /sore eyes are considered suitable for patients to purchase OTC treatments themselves rather than ask for them to be prescribed by a doctor. This guidance also applies if you are entitled to free prescriptions. For full details see the source documents. A leaflet is also available for patients - OTC Meds leaflet

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Tue 11 June 19 | Additional Services Contracts in Hampshire - PEC Services Registration
If your practice does not currently subcontract with PEC Services and would like your practice to be involved;  please read attached information with regards to how to get involved and the compliance which is required; if you wish to participate complete the Registration form via this link  http://bit.ly/opto-reg-portal Currently this will mostly affect practices in Southampton City CCG, West Hants CCG and North Hants CCG areas of operation.

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