The Optitian

[kathy22]

Well, Had a letter from the optitian for my yearly check up - usually yearly as I have Glaucoma - so when I rang I was told the NHS have changed it to 2 yearly. So as I have Glaucoma and also Cataract forming owing to having the operations for it years ago it seems I will have to pay for it this time (It was free because of the Glaucoma). The problem is the cataracts are affecting my vision as now I have to use glasses for long distance (which I didn't need to before) and also changing so may have to have the ops in the not too distant future. I know the NHS have to make cuts but in cases like mine I really don't think this has been well thought out.

Kathy

[Rodo]

Kathy all eye tests are free for those over 60. You are entitled to a free eye test every year.

[kathy22]

As I am understanding this the NHS have changed it from yearly to 2 yearly and I think this applies to those over 60

Kathy

[Rodo]

Well, hubby and I are having a free eye test every year. I don't know about any change to that.

[cruiser2]

We have a free eye test every two years. Our optician says I can have one every year as I have diabetes. But as there is very little change it is not necessary.

[Gal]

Kathy I work in an opticians' and unless we haven't been sent updated info (highly unlikely!!) as a glaucoma sufferer, you will be entitled to an annual NHS eye test. If you need a cataract op, you will be referred at your next eye test.

Anyone else - if you are 60 or over, then you get an NHS test but you may not be recalled annually, more likely every two years until you are 70. Then it reverts to annual.

HTH.

[Gal]

We have a free eye test every two years. Our optician says I can have one every year as I have diabetes. But as there is very little change it is not necessary.

Cruiser, if you have diabetes, then you should be seen every year. Diabetes can cause visual problems and frequent check ups can rule out any issues. it's not just a matter of your prescription changing.

[kathy22]

Thanks for this information Gal

[kathy22]

Saying that Gal with the Glaucoma I have to go to the hospital every 12 months too so this may be affecting it, but the receptionist at the optitian did say that the NHS had put the Glaucoma patients testing to every 2 years.

Kathy

[cruiser2]

Gal, I do have an eye test every twelve months at the eye clinic at the local hospital as I have diabetes. It is very similar to the one I have at the opticians. Also have my feet checked annually at the clinic.