Many locum optometrists have Professional Indemnity Insurance that expires annually on 31st December, but insurers such as Association of Optometrists (AOP) don't issue new certificates until around 7th January.
This can cause temporary compliance issues.
To avoid this, we’ve introduced a 14-day Compliance Grace Period for optometry roles.
How it Works
The grace period runs automatically from 1st to 14th January each year
During this time, previous Professional Indemnity Insurance certificates remain valid on the platform
Locums therefore stay compliant and can continue to book shifts
However, renewed certificates must be uploaded by 14th January
Who This Applies To
The grace period applies to:
Optometrists
Dispensing Opticians
Contact Lens Opticians
Ophthalmic Medical Practitioners
Insurers supported include:
Association of Optometrists (AOP)
Association of British Dispensing Opticians (ABDO)
Important
The grace period applies only to Professional Indemnity Insurance
If another mandatory credential expires, for example DBS or Right to Work, the locum's compliance status will change to “Awaiting Credentials” immediately
In addition, if the renewed Professional Indemnity Insurance certification is not uploaded by 14th January, the locum's compliance status will change to “Awaiting Credentials”
How to Enable
There is no action required. This update is automatically enabled for all relevant optometry roles.
FAQs
FAQs
Q) Which credentials does the grace period apply to?
Only Optometry Professional Indemnity Insurance, including that provided by Association of Optometrists (AOP), Association of British Dispensing Opticians (ABDO).
Q) Which job roles are covered?
Optometrist, Dispensing Optician, Contact Lens Optician and Ophthalmic Medical Practitioner.
Q) How long is the grace period?
14 days, running automatically from 1st to 14th January each year.
Q) What happens if the renewed certificate isn’t uploaded in time?
The locum’s compliance status changes automatically to “Awaiting Credentials” on 14th January.
Q) What if another credential expires during the grace period?
The grace period does not apply to other credentials. If DBS, Right to Work or other mandatory credentials expires, the locum’s compliance status becomes “Awaiting Credentials”.
Q) Do employers need to switch anything on?
No, the grace period is automatically enabled for all relevant job types.