[1] In April 2006, the Scottish Government agreed to the introduction of an enhanced General Ophthalmic Services eye examination, with higher fees.
Free NHS sight tests are available to any UK resident and are a thorough examination to check the health of the eyes.
[3] In 2018, it was reported that more than 7,000 ophthalmology patients at University Hospital Southampton NHS Foundation Trust, 4,500 with glaucoma and 2,500 with diabetes-related eye problems, had not been given follow-up appointments.
[4] The college conducted a workforce census in 2019 which found a “serious shortage of ophthalmologists” and a “widespread use of locums which… can create significant risks to patients”.
consumers rate local independent opticians as offering a better experience for buying glasses or contact lenses than high street chains.
[citation needed] The fee for the optometrist in England, Wales and Northern Ireland paid by the NHS is £21.31.