Low vision scheme
We currently operate a low vision clinic to help those of you with poor sight. You do not have to be registered as sight impaired but you must have an amount of sight loss which affects your daily living.
How does the Low Vision Scheme Work?
Accredited optometrists such as ourselves will undertake an assessment to determine if any low vision aids are available to help a person with low vision do the things they want.
The appointment with the low vision practitioner is provided free of charge by the NHS and all the low vision aids are available on loan, and free of charge.
The practitioners will also use their knowledge of other low vision services in the area to advise you of further help that may be available.
How does someone get referred into the Low Vision Scheme?
To have a low vision assessment a person can refer themselves to an accredited practitioner or be referred by any of the following:
- a GP or family doctor
- an optometrist
- social services
- community services
- an ophthalmologist in the hospital eye service.
How long will I have to wait to be assessed?
Once you have been referred we should be able to offer you an appointment within one or two weeks.
How will the assessment be made?
One of our optometrists will carry out a tailored eye examination, and will assess how vision aids and appliances may be able to help you. The whole process usually takes about 30 minutes, although this may vary according to your individual needs.
Do I have to pay?
There will be no charge for the assessment or for any equipment issued. The Low Vision Service is funded by the local PCT.
What if I don’t get on successfully with the low vision aid?
The scheme provides all aids and appliances on a loan basis. We will contact you by telephone after four weeks to find out if you are using the appliance we have provided successfully. At this point an appointment can be made for re-assessment if you are having any difficulties. We will contact you again six months later for an appointment to check again and supply you with a different aid if needed. If, for any reason, you decide not to use the aids, they should be returned to the optometrist who supplied them.
