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Helpdesk FAQ April 2023

Examples of questions received by our helpdesk for commissioners. For details on how to access the helpdesk see www.pcc-cic.org.uk/annual-contracts/.

Dental query

Can a company change to another company and still hold their GDS dental contract?

A company-to-company change isn’t covered in regulations but can be managed by way of a contract novation. Commissioners can use the process (outlined in the policy book) for managing an incorporation request, to look at their decision-making process and what would be looked at to decide whether to allow a novation request or not. Because it is a change outside of the regulations it does carry a risk that someone may raise a procurement challenge. Commissioners can again use the principles of managing an incorporation request when looking at the procurement risk. The risk of challenge doesn’t mean the request should not be allowed, but that the commissioner should put themselves in the best place to defend the decision.

Eyecare

Suppliers of optical appliances

Do suppliers of optical appliances (glasses and contact lenses) need to hold a contract with the NHS?

No. Suppliers of optical appliances who choose to only dispense and submit GOS 3 forms (NHS optical voucher and patient statement) and GOS 4 forms (NHS optical repair and replacement application form) do not need to hold a GOS contract with NHS England as the GOS claim forms contain the required wording to support reimbursement.

Suppliers who dispense to patients who are under 16 years of age or who are registered sight impaired or severely sight impaired (previously partially sighted or blind) must be carried out by, or under the supervision of, a **registered optometrist, Ophthalmic Medical Practitioner (OMP) or dispensing optician. The registered practitioner should be identified on the dispensing record.

**Registered with the General Optical Council (GOC).

Last Updated on 29 March 2023