Do I need to book an eye test?
Yes, it is usually best to ring at least 2-3 weeks before you want your appointment. We can, on occasions, get very busy (2 or 3 months ahead) but we do keep aside appointments for emergencies (sore or red eyes, or sudden loss of vision).
Do I have to pay for my eye test?
No, unless your eye exam is specifically for contact lenses, or for occupational reasons, it will normally be paid by the NHS (in Scotland).
How long does an eye test take?
Approximately 25-30 minutes. If you are over 40 we may also perform a peripheral visual field test that takes around 15 minutes, or bring you back in for a supplementary appointment..
Do I need to bring anything with me for my eye test?
Please bring all the glasses you are currently using, or a copy of your last prescription (if you have not been to us before). It is also helpful to have a note of any current medication you may be taking.
How long should I take my contact lenses out before my eye test?
If you wear soft contact lenses please take them out 10 minutes before or bring your container and some solution to the appointment so they can be removed. We may put dye in your eyes which stains the lenses, so it would be helpful to bring your glasses.If you wear gas permeable lenses please take them out the night before your eye test.
How often do I need to have an eye test?
- Children under 16 can have a NHS eye test once a year, or 6 months in some special cases
- Adults 16 – 60 are entitled to an NHS eye test every two years.
- Adults over 60 are entitled to a NHS eye test each year.
- All Diabetic and Glaucoma patients require a yearly eye test.
- You may still be entitled to an “early re-test” under the NHS if there are specific issues with your vision that are not mentioned above, or you have symptoms that require investigation.
How old does my child have to be to have an eye exam?
We can test children from any age. Generally any eye problems in children up to the age of 3 are picked up during post-natal checks or at the local 3-4 year screening, and are dealt with by the hospital. If you feel your child has any visual problems, please get them checked as soon as possible by your optometrist or GP.
Can I have my diabetic eye screening along with my eye test?
In Scotland, Diabetic Eye Screeing is seperate from the normal eye test, and under the control of the local NHS screening unit. Whilst we can still take and analyse your retinal pictures, we can no longer pass them on due to budget cuts in the NHS.You will, unfortunately, need to have a seperate appointment with the diabetic eye screening service in order to log your pictures into the national database.
Do I qualify for an NHS voucher to help towards my glasses?
Yes, if you are:
- On pension credit,
- On income support or job seekers allowance,
- Prescribed complex lenses,
- On working family tax credit or universal credit,
- Under 16,
- Under 19 and in full time education,
- Named on a valid HC2 or HC3 certificate.
I’m on a low income/ I am a student; do I qualify for help?
We can provide a HC1 form for you to fill in and send off to the NHS in a prepaid envelope. They will calculate how much help you are entitled to; this process can take around 2 weeks.
Can you put new lenses in my old frame?
Yes, if the frame is in good condition.
Can you put my old lenses in a new frame?
Not usually. We are always willing to try, but it would be necessary to find a frame exactly the same shape and size as your existing lenses.
Can you repair my glasses?
Some repairs can be done on site, but it may be necessary to order in a part or to send the frame away to be repaired. It is always useful to have a second back up pair of glasses, in case you cannot drive or read without them.
Can you test my eyes at home?
Unfortunately we no longer do home visits. We can, however, put you in touch with a specialist domiciliary provider, if you are unable to come out to the practice.
