NHS and Private Eye Examinations

Some people are entitled to a basic NHS test.

You can also choose to have 3D OCT retinal scans for an additional fee.

You may be entitled to a basic NHS (WGOS) sight test if you:

• Are under 16*

• Are 16, 17 or 18 and in full-time education*

• Are under 18 and a care leaver or are in the care of a Local Authority*

• Are aged 60 or over

• Are a prisoner on leave from prison*

• Have been diagnosed with glaucoma or diabetes

• Are aged 40 or over and are either a parent, brother, sister, son or daughter of someone with glaucoma

• Have been advised by an ophthalmologist or glaucoma-qualified practitioner that you are at risk of glaucoma

• Are at risk of developing eye disease based on ethnicity (i.e. if you are Asian or black and over 40 years of age)

• Are uniocular (have sight in one eye only)

• Are hearing impaired 

• Have been diagnosed with retinitis pigmentosa

• Are registered sight impaired or severely sight impaired (previously known as blind or partially sighted)

• Require complex lenses (speak to your Optometrist for more information)*

• If you or your partner are in receipt of Income Support, Income-related Employment and Support Allowance, Income-based Jobseekers Allowance or Pension Credit Guarantee Credit.*

• Are named on a valid NHS tax credit exemption certificate*

• Are named on a valid HC2W certificate*

• If you are named on a valid HC3W you might get partial help towards the cost of a private sight test, and glasses or contact lenses*

* If you fall under any of the groups marked with an asterisk, you may be entitled to an NHS optical voucher, giving you help towards the cost of glasses or contact lenses.