Eye Health Questions
Your sight is precious. Look after your eyes!
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I qualify for free eye tests?
- Under 16 or under 19 and in full-time education
- aged 60 or over
- registered blind or partially sighted
- diagnosed with diabetes or glaucoma
- aged 40 or over and you are the parent, brother, sister, son or daughter of a person diagnosed with glaucoma, or you have been advised by an ophthalmologist that you are at risk of glaucoma
- eligible for an NHS complex lens voucher
You are also entitled to a free NHS sight test if:
- you receive Income Support or Income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance (not contribution based)
- you receive Pension Credit Guarantee Credit
- you receive Income-based Employment and Support Allowance
- you are awarded Universal Credit
- you are entitled to, or named on, a valid NHS tax credit exemption certificate you are named on a valid NHS certificate for full help with health costs (HC2)
People named on an NHS certificate for partial help with health costs (HC3) may also get help. Also read about the NHS Low Income Scheme (LIS).
Does a family history of Glaucoma put me at greater risk of developing that condition?
If there is glaucoma in the family, then statistically you may be more at risk of developing it, particularly if you are a smoker. Glaucoma can often be treated effectively if diagnosed early, so regular eye checks are important.
Is it safe to wear my contact lenses for long periods of time?
Whatever kind of lenses you do wear, Cleanliness is very important. Most problems are caused by poor hygiene practice.
How often should I have an eye test?
If your question and the answer would be helpful to others, we may post them (anonymised of course) on this frequently asked questions page. But only if you are happy for us to do so – you can tell us below whether or not you are comfortable with that.
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