Seeing double over eye tests

HEALTH Secretary Shona Robison has said the Scottish Government is ‘committed’ to free eye tests as a report showed the cost to the NHS has almost doubled over a decade.

The cost of eye examinations rose from just under £40million in 2006-07 to £76million in 2015-16, according to a study.

All Scots are entitled to a free NHS eye test once every two years, or once a year for under-16s, the over-60s and patients with certain health problems.

The community eyecare review, commissioned by ministers, said one reason for the rising bill was ‘increased demand’.

Opticians have carried out 16.4million eye tests since the free service was launched in April 2006, with the number having the checks increasing each year.

The review said the frequency of tests for those deemed to be at ‘minimal risk’ should be reviewed.

And more appointments traditionally carried out in hospitals, such as postcataract surgery check-ups, should be carried out by high street opticians.

Miss Robison said: ‘This Government is committed to continue free eye tests. Optometrists and ophthalmologists do tremendous work in delivering high-quality eye care for the people of Scotland.

‘However, as with all parts of the NHS, we must continue to improve.’