Association of Optometrists (AOP)

Description

A representative association for individual (not corporations) optometrists and dispensing opticians. The AOP provides medical malpractice insurance for all its members as well as offering advice and support to members engaged in promoting or expanding the role of the profession.

Member benefits

Medical malpractice insurance, a legal defence service, advice and support for Local Optometric Committees and Area Optometric Committees, Local Health Groups etc, plus a range of services for all professionals to help in their professional and personal lives.

Mission / Aims

The role of the Association of Optometrists is to promote and protect its members, individually and collectively, with services and representation to enhance their professional and business activities.

Principal activities

Represent individual optometrists, whatever their mode of practice. The Association also represents a small number of dispensing opticians.
Promote the professional and clinical independence of its members and the profession.
Encourage and assist in the development and promotion of high standards of practice.
Establish suitable arrangements for the defence, in disciplinary and professional matters, of all members, whether in practice as principals, assistants, employers or employees.
Advise on commercial, economic, legal and administrative aspects of practice.
Represent the interests of all of its members in negotiations for fees, other remuneration, conditions and terms of service, where appropriate.
Represent and promote the interests of all of its members to Parliament, Government and other institutions in the United Kingdom and the European Community.