Wick optician says eye health clinics can alleviate NHS burden

An opticians in Wick says the eye health services it provides on behalf of the NHS can save unnecessary trips to the GP or hospital.

NHS funded eye health clinics are available in most Specsavers stores nationwide, with the opticians having provided more than one million appointments for patients with minor eye conditions in 2022.

The store in Wick can detect and manage a huge range of eye conditions including red eye, dry eye and floaters in the vision. Help with more complex conditions will be discussed on a case-by-case basis.

Specsavers Wick optometry director Ian Morris says community opticians play a key role in alleviating the burden on NHS staff, to enable them to remain focussed on where they are needed the most.

"Regular eye tests with your optician, at least once every two years, are vital to keep on top of your overall eye health and to detect signs of any serious conditions earlier when they are more treatable. But aside of maintaining that good eye care routine, minor eye issues such as conjunctivitis or dry eye, can crop up at any time," said Ian.

"Our message is clear – if your eyes aren’t feeling right, an optician should always be your first port of call. Don’t just assume you need to go to your hospital or GP, especially at this time when the NHS is under unprecedented pressure."

Specsavers can check and manage the following conditions:

• Dry eye: Eyes may be red, swollen and irritated.
• Red eye: This may be a sign of conjunctivitis or a burst blood vessel.
• Watery eye: Vision may be blurred, eyelids may be sore, and eyes can be sticky.
• Conjunctivitis: Bloodshot and gritty-feeling eyes and sticky lashes.
• Burst blood vessel: A bright red eye, caused by a burst blood vessel.If your red eye is painful, , you should contact your optician, GP or NHS 111 immediately.
• Care for more serious conditions

Many Specsavers stores can also help you manage more complex eye conditions, such as pre and post cataract surgery care, diabetic retinopathy, glaucoma monitoring and iritis.

These conditions are all treatable if detected early, so it is essential to have regular eye tests, every two years unless advised to have them more frequently.

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