GOC erases London based optometrist

The General Optical Council (GOC), the UK regulator for optometrists and dispensing opticians, has decided to erase Arif Chanawala, an optometrist based in London, from its register. He will now be unable to practise as an optometrist in the UK.

A GOC Fitness to Practise Committee found his fitness to practise impaired by reason of misconduct. This is in relation to carrying out sight tests unauthorised by the National Health Service and failing to carry out adequate sight tests and maintain adequate records.

Mr Chanawala had until 10 July 2020 to appeal his erasure, during which time he was suspended from the register under an immediate suspension order.