If you are having problems with your eyes, visiting an optician is the best place to start.
Optometrists are highly trained to recognise abnormalities and conditions that could be causing your eye problems. They will prescribe and fit glasses and contact lenses, and, if necessary, they will refer you to a GP or a hospital eye clinic for further investigations.
Accessing an Optician
If you are having problems with your eyes, visiting you optician is the best place to start.
Optometrists are highly trained to recognise abnormalities and conditions that could be causing your eye problems. They will prescribe and fit glasses and contact lenses, and, if necessary, they will refer you to a GP or a hospital eye clinic for further investigations.
You can find your local opticians by visiting NHS Choices.
Visit your Pharmacist
You’re entitled to a free NHS sight test if you:
- are under 16
- are 16, 17 or 18 and in full-time education
- are 60 or over
- are registered as partially sighted or blind
- have been diagnosed with diabetes or glaucoma
- are 40 or over and your mother, father, sibling or child has been diagnosed with glaucoma
- have been advised by an eye doctor (ophthalmologist) that you’re at risk of glaucoma
- are a prisoner on leave from prison
- are eligible for an NHS complex lens voucher – your optician can advise you about your entitlement
You also qualify for a free NHS sight test if you:
- get Income Support
- get Income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance
- get Income-based Employment and Support Allowance
- get Pension Credit Guarantee Credit
- get tax credits and meet the criteria
- get Universal Credit and meet the criteria
- have a low income and are named on a valid NHS HC2 certificate for full help with health costs