Regulation 5 Complaints relating to general ophthalmic services made after 31st July 2008

Subject to paragraph (2), the complaints procedure established and operated by a relevant contractor under the terms of its general ophthalmic services contract which gives effect to paragraph 22 of Schedule 1 (other contractual terms) to the Contracts Regulations shall apply to any complaint which a patient or former patient of the relevant contractor could have made (but did not make) on or before 31st July 2008 under paragraphs 8A to 8C of Schedule 1 to the 1986 Regulations, as it applies to complaints made by a patient or former patient of the relevant contractor in relation to any matter reasonably connected with the provision of services under the contract.

In a case where there is no relevant contractor, the complaint must be investigated by the PCT in whose area the general ophthalmic services were provided.

Where a complaint falls to be investigated by a PCT under paragraph (2), the investigation shall be carried out in accordance with the Complaints Regulations.