HG Surveys Optical Industry Response To Covid-19

A total of 943 respondents from across the UK, including practice owners, optometrists and dispensing opticians, took part in a survey by the Hakim Group to help inform planning and provide insight into how the industry has responded to Covid-19.Safety has been the top priority for optical practices during the Covid-19 pandemic with infection control measures undertaken.Social distancing measures have meant optical practitioners have used remote triaging tools (93.2%) and video and image consultations (43.8%) to provide eye care.Phone calls (92.99) have been the most popular method of contacting patients, with emails (83.54%), social media (70.4%) and text messages (61.47%) also used.Safety was the top priority for practices with measures taken such as sanitising equipment (79.2%), infection control (75.8%) and protective furnishings (38.1%).Of those surveyed, 82.66% of practices have remained open with restricted service, with home delivery among services offered by 92.47%, and 17.34% have completely closed during the pandemic.Original article appeared in full on Optician Online.