GOC Investigation
Stage 1: Triage or Initial Assessment
The person against whom a complaint has been made is informed of it and the evidence that has been gathered. The optical professional is invited to make ‘representations’ - usually in the form of a letter commenting on the allegation and raising matters in defence. Where it is necessary, the person making the allegation may prepare a witness statement. GOC solicitors consider these representations together with the original allegation. All the evidence is forwarded to the Investigation Committee for consideration.
Investigation Committee
The Investigation Committee then decides what course of action is most appropriate. The Committee can:
- take no further action
- direct further investigation (i.e. an assessment of the registrant’s performance)
- refer the allegation to the Fitness to Practice Committee for a full inquiry, which could result in a full hearing.
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