Inaccurate HES Voucher Claims
13 May 2024
Dear Optometry Practice,
Re: Inaccurate HES Voucher Claims
We have recently become aware of a number of practices making inaccurate claims for spectacles via the NHS Voucher scheme. This includes amending voucher type, and addition of supplements for high refractive index lenses, or stating that cost of glasses is lower than voucher value and still claiming the full voucher value.
The NHS voucher scheme entitles patients support towards the cost of their glasses, and the voucher code reflects this, with an increase in value with increase in strength of prescription.
In accordance with national guidelines, practices are not allowed to change voucher codes written on prescriptions, even if this disadvantages the patient.
We often get requests to issue repeat vouchers for broken and lost glasses, however these should be claimed via GOS4 repair and replacement vouchers up to a year after the glasses were first issued.
I am aware that sometimes vouchers have been issued from the hospital without a voucher code, and we are currently tightening our processes around issuing HESP within the hospital eye service.
To avoid issues with payment, please ensure you complete the HES voucher supplier’s declaration accurately. Failure to complete the supplier’s declaration accurately may be considered fraud and will be escalated as such.
Should you have any queries around making accurate claims, please do not hesitate to get in touch by emailing rbb-tr.orthopticsreading@nhs.net and we want to reiterate the fact that this will assist with prompt payment.
Yours sincerely,
Greg Richardson
Head Orthoptist
Berkshire LOC Latest News
PES Enhanced Cataract CPD Event: 18th December 2024
Join us for an insightful, free event tailored for practitioners involved in enhanced eyecare services using OPERA, with a spotlight on the pre-op cataract/enhanced cataract referral service in England. 📅 When: Wednesday 18th December, 7pm – 8pm. 📍Where: Online, via Zoom. 🎓Earn: 1 Interactive CPD Point (Lecture) for OOs and DOs This session …
Continue reading “PES Enhanced Cataract CPD Event: 18th December 2024”
11 December 2024
PCSE System Downtime 28-29 November
Dear Colleague, We’re letting you know about scheduled maintenance taking place this week. Due to scheduled maintenance, PCSE Online will be unavailable from 6pm on Thursday 28 November to 6am on Friday 29 November. We will then be carrying out assurance testing until 8.30am. Please note, the contact us forms on the PCSE …
Continue reading “PCSE System Downtime 28-29 November”
27 November 2024
RNIB CET Event – Monday 2nd of December
The RNIB Low Vision Centre is pleased to inform you of a free CPD event for Optometrists and Dispensing Opticians on: Monday 2nd December 9.15- 16.00 Low vision and Learning Disabilities Conference (5 CET points) Content: Low vision Workshop Learning disabilities Workshop Retinal conditions in Low Vision Lecture – Consultant ophthalmologist Christiana Dinah Eyecare support …
Continue reading “RNIB CET Event – Monday 2nd of December”
21 November 2024
Safeguarding Adults Week 2024
Dear Colleagues, We are pleased to announce that we are raising awareness of Safeguarding Adults Week 2024, an annual campaign aimed at raising awareness and promoting best practices in safeguarding adults. Primary Eyecare Services are proud to be supporting this campaign. We would like to encourage you to take the time to read …
Continue reading “Safeguarding Adults Week 2024”
21 November 2024
PCSE – System downtime 14th of November 2025
Primary Care Support England System downtime 14 November Dear Colleague, We’re letting you know about scheduled maintenance taking place this week. Due to scheduled maintenance, PCSE Online will be unavailable from 6pm until 9.30pm on Thursday 14 November. Don’t forget to read our Business Continuity Guidance If your store is unable to access PCSE Online due …
Continue reading “PCSE – System downtime 14th of November 2025”
13 November 2024
Special Facial Characteristics GOS supplement – includes Tomato and MiraFlex range
If you have had a GOS claim for a SFC supplement refused by the RBHT because the frame dispensed was not custom made, ie. from the “Tomato” or “MiraFlex” range, please be aware that you are able to challenge this under the SGS additional guidance, details below: Small Glasses Supplement Additional guidance NHS England and …
12 October 2024
VISIO Health Inaugural Launch & Optometry and GP Education event
VISIO Health, in partnership with ZEISS, is hosting its inaugural educational meeting alongside its official launch, focusing on holistic care for Ophthalmology, Dermatology, Aesthetics, and Wellbeing. The event will feature interactive workshops that include diagnostic imaging interpretation, case-based discussions on treatment options across various specialties, and hands-on experience. Accredited with 15 CPD points, this …
Continue reading “VISIO Health Inaugural Launch & Optometry and GP Education event”
7 October 2024
Optician is delighted to announce the return of its CPD certified conference on Sustainability – October 1st & 2nd of October
Eyes on Sustainability is a ground-breaking multi-channel initiative that combines live conferences and focused monthly editorial content. Eyes on Sustainability 2024 (#EOS24), is CPD certified and will take place on October 2nd at Brighton i360 and will provide a launchpad for retail optics to reduce its impact on the planet while meeting current and future …
20 September 2024
CUES CPD Event: 23rd September 2024 7PM – 9PM
Primary Eyecare are excited to announce an upcoming CPD webinar on CUES, “The CUES conundrum: solving the urgent eyecare solution” Monday 23rd September, 7PM-9PM 2 back-to-back lectures with 2 interactive CPD points in total! 7PM – 8PM = CUES pathway and protocols 8PM – 9PM = CUES referrals from the red tab …
Continue reading “CUES CPD Event: 23rd September 2024 7PM – 9PM”
6 September 2024