Regulations on contact lens fitting and supply

New regulations on the supply of contact lenses in the UK took effect in 2005. As was previously the case, contact lenses can only be fitted by a registered optometrist, suitably qualified dispensing optician or medical practitioner (special provision exists for students).

When prescribing powered (i.e. corrective) lenses, the practitioner must issue the patient with a contact lens specification once a fitting is completed. There is no legal requirement to give a patient a written specification after fitting with zero-powered ('plano') lenses but the College of Optometrists and Association of British Dispensing Opticians have advised their members that it is in the patient's best interest to do so.

Powered contact lenses may then be sold by or under the 'general direction' of a registered optometrist, suitably qualified dispensing optician or medical practitioner. Zero-powered contact lenses can only be sold by or under the supervision of a registered practitioner. Contact lenses for use by children under the age of 16, or patients registered blind or partially sighted, must also be sold by a registered practitioner or under his or her supervision.

A 'directed sale' does not require the physical presence of a registered person but he or she is legally responsible for the sale or supply. Supervision requires the registered person to be present on the premises, aware of the procedure and in a position to intervene if necessary.

For powered lenses, the seller must have an in-date specification before supplying lenses or, if this is not available in its original form, verify the specification with the prescriber. Verification should be in writing and requires the patient's consent. The seller must be reasonably satisfied that goods ordered are for the use of the person named in the specification and must make arrangements for aftercare to take place.

The legislation states that the seller must make arrangements for the individual to receive aftercare 'in so far as and for so long as may be reasonable in his or her particular case'.

All businesses in the UK supplying contact lenses must comply with these regulations. Sales outside the UK cannot be regulated under this legislation and this includes internet sales that take place outside the UK.

Contact lens solutions are regulated in a different way from contact lenses and are available from eyecare practitioners, pharmacies, supermarkets, online suppliers and mail order companies.

The BCLA position is that contact lenses must be supplied within the law and proper safeguards must be in place to protect the health and comfort of your eyes. The importance of regular check-ups cannot be over-emphasised.

Contact lens wearers should not change their prescribed lens type, wearing schedule, replacement frequency, solutions or care procedures without the recommendation of their eyecare practitioner. If you have a problem with your lenses, it may be more difficult to resolve if they were not supplied by the prescribing practitioner.

The following professional bodies and other organisations can also provide further information on these regulations:
• General Optical Council
• College of Optometrists 
• Association of British Dispensing Opticians
• Association of Optometrists
• Association of Contact Lens Manufacturers