The Scottish Government have announced that the fees paid to optometrists for carrying out NHS-funded eye examinations will increase by 3% – helping to ensure everyone can continue to access high quality eye care.
Scotland became the only UK nation to introduce free universal NHS-funded eye examinations in 2006 and, the year before the COVID-19 pandemic (2018-19), a record 2.3 million people had their eyes examined by an optometrist under this service.
Local MSP Stuart McMillan welcomed this announcement, saying:
“As Convenor of the Cross Party Group on Visual Impairment, I know how vital this service is to protecting the nation’s eye health. That is why during Eye Health Week I encourage people to go for their NHS-funded eye examinations every two years.
“General Ophthalmic Services is one of the many NHS success stories in Scotland. The introduction in 2006 of free universal NHS-funded eye examinations set Scotland apart from the rest of the UK, so I’m delighted that this Government remains committed to maintaining this policy.
“Increasing the fees paid to optometrists for providing this crucial service ensures everyone across the country can continue to access high quality eye care services.
“Even if you think your vision is fine, it’s important to have your eyes checked regularly by an optometric – as an eye examination helps detect eye problems and signs of other significant health conditions such as diabetes, high blood pressure and cardiovascular disease before they become more serious.
“As we recover from the pandemic, it’s more important than ever that people access healthcare at the right place and at the right time, so if you do have any concerns about your eyes, please contact a local optometrist first.
“Many community optometrists can manage the treatment of certain eye conditions and are able to prescribe treatments to patients instead of having to make a GP or hospital referral.”
