Who Qualifies for an NHS Eye Examination?
You may qualify for a free NHS eye examination if you meet any of the following criteria:
- Age: You’re under 16, or under 19 and in full-time education, or you’re 60 or over.
- Medical Conditions: You have been diagnosed with diabetes or glaucoma, or you’re over 40 with a close family member who has glaucoma.
- Income-Related Benefits: You receive Income Support, Income-Based Jobseeker’s Allowance, Pension Credit Guarantee Credit, or certain other income-based benefits.
- Other Categories: You have an NHS certificate for complex lenses, or you’re registered as partially sighted or blind.
The optometrist will ask about any problems you have with your eyes, your general health, if there is a family history of eye problems and if you are currently taking any medication.
You will be asked to read letters on a chart, with and without lenses. They will then look at the inside and outside of your eye with a bright light. Eye pressure and your peripheral (side)vision may also be checked.
We will provide clear concise recommendations based on the results of the eye examination. If required, we will help you choose your new glasses.
If you are entitled to an NHS-funded sight test, that doesn’t mean you can’t also take advantage of the latest technology to help build a more complete picture of your eye health. Additional services such as OCT scans and retinal photography can be carried out for a small fee.
It’s easy to neglect your eyes because they rarely hurt when there’s a problem.
Having an eye test won’t only tell you if you need new glasses or a change of prescription, it’s also an important eye health check. It can spot many general health problems and early signs of eye conditions before you’re aware of any symptoms – many of which can be treated if found early enough.
Pop into one of our practices to talk to us face to face or call us on the below numbers.
Clifton: 0117 973 7667
Portishead: 01275 842 504
Most people eligible for an NHS-funded eye test can have one every two years. However, if you have specific eye conditions or a higher risk of developing them, your optician may recommend more frequent tests, which could also be covered by the NHS.
Bring any current glasses or contact lenses you use, along with details of any eye conditions or health issues you have. If you’re eligible for a free test due to benefits, bring proof of entitlement to show at your appointment.
If you qualify for an NHS-funded eye test, you may also be eligible for an NHS optical voucher, which helps with the cost of glasses or contact lenses. The value of the voucher depends on your prescription. Speak to your optician at your appointemnt to see if you qualify.
An NHS eye test includes a full eye examination to check your vision and the health of your eyes. Your optometrist will assess whether you need glasses or an updated prescription and screen for any eye conditions such as glaucoma or cataracts. Additional services such as OCT scan can also be carried out at an extra cost.