The Professional Board for Optometry and Dispensing Opticians (PBODO) has become aware of a notice currently circulating on WhatsApp and various other social media platforms regarding the recent promulgation of the amended Regulations Relating to the Qualifications for Registration of Optometrists. The Board wishes to clarify the contents of the notice and provide accurate information to practitioners and stakeholders.
The notice being circulated was neither drafted nor issued by the PBODO or the Health Professions Council of South Africa (HPCSA). It appears that an individual used an Artificial Intelligence (AI) tool to generate the document based on information contained in the amended Regulations and the Board’s existing examination guidelines relating to restoration of suspended practitioners and the registration of foreign-qualified practitioners.
The Board confirms that, following external stakeholder consultation, the amended Regulations introduce an additional requirement for registration as an optometrist with the HPCSA, namely the successful completion of a national Board examination as determined by the Board. For the avoidance of doubt, this requirement does not apply to optometrists who are already registered with the HPCSA as independent practitioners. The requirement applies only to new graduates seeking registration with the HPCSA for the first time, further engagements will be had with institutions and students.
Practitioners and members of the public are advised to exercise caution when relying on notices circulated through unofficial channels. Fraudulent communications may attempt to replicate the design, branding, and formatting of official PBODO or HPCSA correspondence, thereby creating the impression that they are authentic.
The Board further warns individuals responsible for creating or disseminating false or misleading notices to cease such conduct immediately. The creation and distribution of unauthorised communications may constitute unprofessional conduct and could result in the identified individuals concerned facing appropriate regulatory processes.
The PBODO remains committed to ensuring that practitioners receive accurate and reliable information through its official communication channels and encourages all stakeholders to verify the authenticity of any notices before acting upon them.
For enquiries: ODOboard@hpcsa.co.za
Last Updated on 28 September 2026 by HPCSA Corporate Affairs